Amid its third national lockdown, a growing number of Brits are taking to their gardens, with the former Prime Minister, David Cameron, an early advocate of this unconventional trend. According to the BBC, Mr Cameron purchased a luxurious shepherd’s hut, complete with a sofa bed and wood-burning stove, over two years before the virus emerged. However, as the coronavirus restrictions instruct people to stay at home, workers are following in the former Prime Minister’s footsteps and are setting up an office in their luxury garden sheds. Offering a serene space, a verdant Zoom backdrop, and a heating system against the bitter February climate (yes, really), it is unsurprising why the demand for luxury garden sheds is rising. As Catharina Björkman, Scandi lifestyle expert at Swedish wood burning stove brand, Contura (opens in new tab), explains: ‘With our homes now doubling up as workspaces and schools, we’re all looking for easy and effective ways to best utilize the space we have. Transforming your garden shed into a home office is a simple way to create a functional and attractive space that is separate from the home.’
How to turn a shed into a home office?
If you’re feeling inspired to add or convert an office shed into your garden, Catharina shared her tips for the renovation process: ‘Garden sheds can get chilly, dark, and damp in the cooler months, and whilst adding a stove or wood burner is an obvious way to make your space more usable year-round, there are a few simple ways to make your space warm, comfortable and stylish no matter the time of year. ‘Most heat escapes from the door and window frames, so use draught excluders around doors and windows to ensure you’re keeping the heat in and the cold out,’ Catharina explained. See: Home office ideas – for when you have more space indoors… She continues: ‘If you don’t already have them, invest in some blinds or curtains. These will help your space retain heat in the cooler months and – bonus - will also keep the sun out on hot summer days. For longevity, choose a neutral color that will work all year round - soft greys, warm yellows, or soothing grays all work well. ‘A simple and stylish solution to temper cold floors is to add decorative rugs. These help retain room temperature and feel nicer underfoot and help bring the overall room style together. Plants and flowers can instantly lift a tired, dull space and give it a new lease of life. Opt for fragrant herbs such as basil, rosemary, or thyme and enjoy their natural scents all day long.’ Furthermore, Marc Salamon, Company Director at London Garden Studios (opens in new tab), offered his hacks to ensure the climate in your shed remains comfortable over the winter months, adding: ‘You can insulate the walls with rigid PIR insulation to keep in the heat and clad over the top with plywood boards. I would also put a skylight in to lighten up the space, if the roof is strong enough, and avoid filling the space with stuff normally destined for the shed’.
