Although garden summer houses have long been a feature of outdoor life in UK gardens, they have seen a surge in popularity in recent years. This could be down to a multitude of factors, be it more people working from home since Covid-19 came along, increased awareness of mental health issues and the appreciation of hobbies and personal space as a way of combating that, or people looking to maximise the space they already own without having to move to a bigger house, or equally, to add value to their current property.
So, alongside summer houses being fully established in the world of modern UK gardens, recent trends also show buyers have an increasing interest in incorporating global influences into their outdoor hideaways. In fact, searches for “garden summer houses” surged by over 30% in the UK this past summer, a testament to their rising popularity and the allure of international design. Of course, with so many home makeover TV shows promoting the charms of different countries’ aesthetics, it seems natural that we, as a nation, would be inspired to adopt some of those notions, whether for their tranquillity, their general look, or as a reminder of a wonderful holiday—or something more practical altogether.
You could be drawn to the rustic, warming charm of a Mediterranean villa. Or maybe it is the serenity of a Japanese Zen retreat, a build on the Feng Shui practices that you admire. Or perhaps you’re after the sleek functionality of the Scandinavian aesthetic, especially given our less-than-ideal climate in the UK! Cosy AND clean, who doesn’t want that?
The main point here is that your garden summer house can reflect your unique taste and lifestyle. It does not need to be dowdy. It does not need to feel like you bought it ‘off the shelf’. Whatever your inspiration, this guide is going to explore a few of the classic popular cultural inspirations, whilst also offering practical tips that can help you marry global design with practical solutions, all the while ensuring that they are tailored to the UK’s climate and architectural norms and don’t fall foul of any nosy neighbours.
Global Inspirations for Garden Summer House Designs
Mediterranean Design Elements
What do you think of when you think of the Mediterranean? Glorious sunshine, a relaxed style, a warming colour palette, and timeless elegance. Redolent of lazy afternoons spent basking in the sun with a glass of something fresh and fun in your hand. This is a style that people often want to emulate in their houses when choosing colour-ways, making it an ever-popular choice for garden summer houses where you can really go to town with your design ideas. Inspired by the coastal regions of Southern Europe, this design style brings a slice of the Mediterranean’s sun-soaked allure to the UK.
Visual Style: Mediterranean garden summer houses typically feature warm, earthy tones such as terracotta, ochre, and sandy beige, providing a neutral base complemented by pops of cobalt blue or turquoise. These colours reflect the iconic seaside towns, with bright blue tones reminding us of the sea and the region’s adoration for vibrant hues, whether in evil eye talismans or fun holiday clothing. Textures play an essential role too, with stucco walls, natural stone, and weathered wood creating an inviting and rustic aesthetic. Don’t forget about your fabric choices when selecting curtains or cushion covers—they can make all the difference.
Architectural Features:
- Incorporating arches through windows and doorways is an easy way to impart the look of a traditional Spanish hacienda.
- Materials like terracotta-tiled roofs can recreate the sunny theme and help capture an authentic and warming colour scheme.
- Shaded pergolas draped with climbing plants like bougainvillaea, or yellow wisteria if your garden has typical UK sunshine levels, add an authentic Mediterranean touch. David Domoney’s guide offers great tips.
Practical Tips for UK Gardens:
- Use weatherproof materials like composite tiles or treated timber to guard against the UK’s wetter climate.
- Incorporate Mediterranean plants like olive trees or lavender, which thrive in sunny spots and tolerate cooler temperatures. For inspiration, look to mountainous regions of Southern Europe for plants that handle temperature extremes well.
- Opt for wrought iron or teak furniture for durability. You won’t need to bring them indoors every time the weather changes.
Japanese Zen Concepts
Japanese gardens are based on seven key tenets, embodying harmony, simplicity, and a deep connection with nature. A Zen-inspired summer house provides a space to unwind and reconnect with yourself and the natural world—a genuine moment of quiet. You might enjoy creating a tranquil retreat to relax, meditate, or even blend UK and Japanese traditions through tea ceremonies. Scones or sushi, anyone?
Design Principles: Minimalism is central to Japanese Zen design, which seamlessly integrates with the surrounding environment. This works beautifully in walled gardens or quiet corners, away from the madding crowd. Key principles include balance, asymmetry, and the strategic use of natural elements. If maintaining a full Zen garden seems overwhelming, simpler adaptations can still evoke the style while keeping effort manageable.
Key Features:
- Water Features: Small ponds or bamboo fountains provide soothing sounds—a hallmark of Zen gardens. For inspiration, explore innovative ideas, but keep in mind that some designs may be ambitious for standard UK gardens.
- Gravel Paths or Raked Gravel Beds: These symbolize water flow and encourage mindfulness. Raking patterns can be meditative, though cats or children might disrupt your designs, giving you a chance to renew your mindfulness practice.
- Plant Selection: Incorporate bonsai trees or Japanese maples, which thrive in the UK and offer elegant architectural shapes. Hardy options like boxwood are also ideal for their easy maintenance and minimal leaf drop. Discover more plants suited for Japanese gardens.
- Shoji Screens or Sliding Doors: These features blur the line between indoors and outdoors, enhancing the seamless integration of your summer house with nature.
Adaptation Tips for UK Gardens:
- Use frost-resistant materials like granite or basalt for water features to withstand colder months.
- Choose hardy plants such as Japanese maples or dwarf conifers that suit the UK climate. Your local garden centre can provide expert advice tailored to your area.
- Create a DIY Zen rock garden using locally sourced gravel and stones. This adds an authentic touch and ensures compatibility with your garden’s environment.
Scandinavian Influences
Scandinavian design emphasizes functionality, sustainability, and a strong connection to nature, making it an ideal choice for modern garden summer houses. With clean lines and multipurpose spaces, this style suits UK homeowners with smaller gardens or eco-friendly ambitions. Additionally, elements like soft furnishings are readily available from retailers such as IKEA.
Core Ideas: Scandinavian aesthetics embrace simplicity and practicality. Large windows allow natural light to flood the interior, while neutral palettes and natural materials create a calming atmosphere. This approach is both easy to achieve and budget-friendly. For a personal touch, consider repurposing old wool jumpers as cushion covers to bring texture and warmth into your summer house.
Highlight Features:
- Multipurpose Space: Design your summer house to serve as a home office, yoga studio, therapy room, or guest accommodation.
- Sustainable Materials: Utilize reclaimed wood to align with the growing trend for eco-friendly living. Explore local reclamation yards or online platforms like Freecycle for materials.
- Cozy Touches: Incorporate wool throws, sheepskin rugs, and minimalist Scandinavian furniture, complemented by soft lighting, to create an inviting atmosphere.
Adaptation Tips for UK Gardens:
- Insulation and Windows: Install energy-efficient insulation and double-glazed windows to maximize comfort year-round, especially if you plan to use the space regularly.
- Recycled Materials: Use recycled or reclaimed wood for a budget-friendly and sustainable build.
- Lighting Solutions: Incorporate Scandinavian lighting options, such as soft pendant lights, for a warm and inviting ambiance. Consider LED candles that provide the glow of a flame without fire risk.
By integrating these Scandinavian design principles and sustainable practices, you can create a functional and serene garden summer house that reflects your personal style and environmental values.
Practical Guide
Transforming your garden summer house into a special retreat can be achieved by following these practical steps:
Budget Considerations
Investing in high-quality materials is essential for achieving an authentic look and ensuring longevity. For instance:
- Mediterranean Tiles: Consider using authentic Mediterranean tiles for flooring or roof accents to capture the desired aesthetic.
- Shoji Screens: Incorporate Japanese-style shoji screens made of durable, weather-resistant materials.
- Reclaimed Wood: Utilize reclaimed wood for a Scandinavian-inspired structure, aligning with sustainable practices. Local reclamation yards or online platforms such as Freecycle can be valuable resources.
DIY Projects
Simple DIY projects can make a significant impact without straining your budget:
- Japanese Rock Garden: Create a Japanese rock garden using locally sourced gravel, stones, and hardy plants. Guides like this one provide step-by-step instructions.
- Pergola Construction: Build a pergola and adorn it with Mediterranean climbing plants to enhance your garden’s ambiance. Inspiration can be found in articles such as this one.
- Scandinavian Lighting: Install Scandinavian-inspired light fixtures to enhance your summer house’s ambiance. Consider options like LED candles that provide the glow of a flame without fire risk.
Exploring local free-to-collector or reclamation sites can yield surprising finds for your projects. Remember, patience is key; take your time to ensure quality results.
Weather Adaptation
Weather is always a significant concern with outdoor projects, especially in the UK’s variable climate. By adapting international designs to suit local conditions, you can ensure your summer house remains functional and beautiful throughout the year with minimal maintenance.
- Use Treated Wood and Weatherproof Paint: Applying weatherproof treatments to your summer house can help combat moisture and prolong its lifespan. Regular maintenance with high-quality wood finishes is essential to protect against the elements.
- Install Proper Drainage Systems: A solid base and effective drainage around your summer house are critical to prevent waterlogging. If you’re unsure where to start, consider consulting with a landscape gardener for advice on how to optimize your space.
- Add Insulation and Heating Solutions: To make your summer house usable year-round, particularly for Scandinavian-inspired designs, consider installing insulation and a heating solution. For guidance on materials and installation, this guide on summer house insulation can be a helpful resource.
FAQs
- What are the best materials for a Mediterranean-style summer house? Materials like terracotta tiles, polished plaster (stucco), and treated wood work beautifully to achieve a Mediterranean aesthetic. Ensure you select weather-resistant materials to handle the UK’s damp climate.
- How can I create a Japanese Zen Garden on a budget? Use locally sourced gravel and stones to build a rock garden, and add affordable, low-maintenance plants like dwarf conifers or ferns. Repurpose items like old Belfast sinks for an East-meets-West vibe.
- What is the best way to incorporate Scandinavian minimalism into a small space? Focus on functionality by choosing multipurpose furniture, maximizing natural light with large windows or skylights, and using a neutral colour palette to create a more open feel. Add aromatic herbs for an earthy touch..
Conclusion
Designing a garden summer house inspired by international cultures enables you to bring elements of charm and sophistication to your outdoor retreat. Whether you’re drawn to the rustic warmth of the Mediterranean, the serenity of Japanese Zen gardens, or the sleek minimalism of Scandinavian design, these styles can transform your space. By adapting global inspirations to the UK climate and your specific needs, you can create a summer house that’s not only stylish but also enduring and practical for year-round enjoyment.