Adding a Backyard Garden or Office Studio
DIY Build or Buy?
One of the nicest places to take in your garden’s vista is in the privacy of a backyard studio or office. In addition to bringing you closer to nature, backyard rooms come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are made to be flexible for a range of functions. The options are unlimited, whether you wish to write, work, produce music or art, engage in crafts, or simply unwind.
DIY
Building a backyard studio requires careful planning and consideration of several factors, including building codes and regulations, the intended use of the studio, the materials and tools needed, and the budget. Here are the steps to build a DIY backyard studio:
- Obtain necessary permits: Before starting any construction, check with local building codes and regulations to ensure that a backyard studio is allowed and what permits are required.
- Determine the size and layout: Consider the intended use of the studio, how much space is needed, and the location in the backyard.
- Choose the right materials: Decide what materials to use for the floor, walls, roof, and other elements of the structure, taking into account factors such as cost, durability, and insulation.
- Prepare the site: Clear the area where the studio will be built, level the ground if necessary, and pour a concrete slab or install a treated wood deck as the base.
- Construct the walls: Build the walls using the chosen materials, following building codes and regulations. Consider adding insulation and installing windows for natural light.
- Install the roof: Choose a roofing material that will protect the studio from the elements, and install it according to manufacturer instructions.
- Finish the interior: Install electrical wiring and lighting, add flooring and wall coverings, and finish the interior to your specifications.
- Decorate the exterior: Paint or stain the exterior, add landscaping and outdoor lighting, and add any other finishing touches to enhance the look of the studio.
Remember to take safety precautions throughout the construction process and follow all building codes and regulations.
Buy
There are multiple manufacturers in Australia that design and install backyard studios. You can leave all the work to them from getting permits, council approvals to the building and installation.
Here are 3 suppliers of backyard studios.
Backyard Pods
This company operates in NSW, QLD, VIC and the ACT and provides 3 solutions:
- DIY
- Built to lock-up
- Completed for you
They produce granny flats, garden studios and office pods all with various sizes and designs. Their website has a complete library of their designs.
Huts and Decks WA
Huts and Decks have its own display centre you can visit. They offer DIY and installation options. They have over 40 styles to choose from.
Garden Studios create architecturally designed studios, thinkpods and granny flats in Melbourne. All the electrical and plumbing are taken care of including builders’ insurance for their custom builds.
