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Summer houses and gazebos are great options for garden buildings suited to relaxation. Each offers something different to the table, so the choice depends on what you’re after. Are you looking for a private retreat or a more open structure for entertaining?
In this guide, we’ll go through their main features/designs to help you decide which one works for your garden and lifestyle.
Summer Houses Block Noise for a Quiet Garden
This feature of a summer house comes down to its fully enclosed design and main material: timber. The solid timber walls themselves naturally block external noise. On top of its dense structure and natural fibres that absorb and dampen sound waves, wood also has inherent sound-insulation qualities. Some models even include insulation and/or unique methods of fitting the panels to further enhance noise reduction.
Summer house models like the BillyOh Petra Tongue and Groove Reverse Apex Summerhouse, for instance, offer improved noise blocking. This is thanks to the way the tongue-and-groove (T&G) boards interlock, reducing the amount of noise that can pass through.
Who’s this feature for?
A wooden summer house, whether it’s T&G or log cabin style, is perfect for you if you’re after a garden retreat that offers a private and tranquil space. And it’s not just for warm weather—it’s great when a cold wind blows, too!
You won’t have to worry about getting rained on, snowed in, or burnt by the sun, and you can enjoy your time inside whenever you like. Plus, if a cold breeze interrupts the party, everyone can escape the wind. Pop in a fan or air conditioner for the summer and an electric stove heater for the winter to make your stay even more comfortable.
Of course, how you decorate the inside also plays a big part. Have a look at these ‘Summer House Interior Ideas’ for some inspiration.
Gazebos Open Structure May Be More Welcoming
Gazebos don’t have the noise-blocking properties that summer houses offer. Instead, their open construction creates a more social, airy, and inviting atmosphere. These structures are like a small, roofed house with open sides. One makes the perfect spot to enjoy the fresh air in your garden without feeling boxed in, all while staying in the shade.
A gazebo is also more at home pretty much anywhere in your garden, whereas a summer house is better positioned at the side or in a corner.
While gazebos might not offer the same level of privacy as summer houses, their openness makes them a brilliant option for garden shade.
Who’s this feature for?
The open layout of a gazebo is perfect if you want a roofed, shaded spot in your garden. Without walls, it doesn’t feel cramped or crowded, even with plenty of guests—depending on the size. The fresh air and the view of the garden give a sense of openness, too.
Although it’s freestanding like a pergola, you don’t have to worry about it being blown away, especially those with steel roofing and aluminium frames. For privacy, you can always add sheer curtains along the posts or framework. The curtains can be drawn across the sides or around the perimeter while still allowing light and air to flow through.
Take this black metal gazebo, for instance. The cream curtains are hooked along the frame and draped around the structure. They give you some privacy, and they also help with shading on sunny days and blocking the wind—though, of course, they’re not as solid as the walls of a summer house.
Round-up
If you value seclusion for your “me time” or when hosting friends and family, a summer house can be your ultimate garden retreat, no matter the weather. The bigger the building, the better, but make sure it fits your available garden space.
If you want something more open but shaded, a gazebo is a great choice. It’s perfect for BBQs, reading, or al-fresco meals with family. Just remember, a gazebo won’t keep you warm, block out noise from a noisy garden, or fully protect you in extreme weather since it has no walls.
Summer houses and gazebos are great, and your choice depends on what you need. If you’re after something more suitable for year-round use, consider checking out our metal garden rooms as an alternative.
Up next on your reading list: What Is a Gazebo and Why Do You Need One?
