Jump to:
These summer house ideas prove that you can have one even with a small garden. You’ll get tips on where to place it, how to plan the layout, and a few more visual tricks to make the space more open. And if you haven’t found the right model, check out our summer house buying guide.
If you’re all set, let’s get into it!
Tuck Your Summer House in the Corner
Corners are the safest bet. Tucking yours into one keeps the centre open, which helps the whole space feel less boxed in. It also gives you more flexibility with where you put furniture, plants, or a washing line.
Got an existing wall or fence nearby? Use it. It’s one less side to expose to the wind, giving the garden room something to sit against.
But you’ll also want to ensure the structure isn’t blocking the view or casting shade over your plants or windows. Remember, a small garden needs light wherever it can get it. Stand at your back door or main seating area to visualise before you settle on a spot.
This trick especially works if you have a corner summer house. If not, the next tip might help.
Make Your Small Summerhouse Work in a Tight Space
With a square or rectangular summer house (the standard), line it up with the shape of the garden. Doing so helps it look like it was always meant to be there, not something that’s been squeezed in.
One way to do this is by placing it flat against a back fence or along one side of the garden to avoid those awkward gaps. You can then use the rest of the space more freely, whether for planting, garden furniture, or a lawn.
Alternatively, line it up with your sightline from the house. That way, when you look out, it feels like everything flows rather than being cut off. And if there’s room, make a small path or row of pavers leading to it so it doesn’t look out of place.
Split the Garden into Sections
Keep it simple. It could go like this: one for the summer house, one for seating, and one for a play area. Use a change in surface, a row of planters, or a raised bed to mark the summer house area. It breaks up the space and stops it from looking crammed. The layout looks more thought-through when each part of the space has a purpose—yes, even when small.
Don’t Fill Up Your Summerhouse Just Because You Can
To get more use out of your summer house is not to cram the space too much. Better yet, go for lightweight furniture that you can move around. For one, benches that double as storage. Mirrors can also help. One placed opposite a window can bounce light around and give the illusion of more space.
Still choosing your model? Opt for one with windows on more than one side. The BillyOh Picton Corner Summerhouse fits the bill. It has tall windows across all the front-facing sides, so light comes in from three angles. Almost like a garden room with a panoramic view!
Go Vertical with Plants and Storage
Trellises, slim shelving, or a wall-mounted planter near the garden room is key when space is tight. It gives you that bit of greenery without eating up ground space. Clematis or honeysuckle thrive in UK gardens and are perfect for bringing colour.
But what if you’re already short on storage? A summer house with side shed is for you! The main area is for relaxing or whatever you wish to use it for, and the separate space to tuck things away.
Summer House Ideas: Round-up
Even a small garden can fit a summer house (best if it’s small, too, but practical and functional). A good placement, clear layout, some clever planting and storage, and you’re there! We hope these ideas have helped you see what’s possible. Good luck!
For more options, read this next: Can You Get a Cheap Summer House Under £2000
