July 2020 - Rooms2U

Enjoy Alfresco Dining This Summer

Posted on 30th July 202014th December 2020

The sun’s out and we’ve heard it’s supposed to be getting warmer! Of course, being in the UK there’s no guarantee but it’s the time of year that we all enjoy some alfresco dining. Whether it’s BBQ’s, picnics or eating family meals in the garden; it’s lovely to enjoy fresh air, get some vitamin D and catch some rays at this time of year wherever possible.

Our marketplace is the ideal place to search, compare and review solutions to upgrade your summer dining experience this year. We take a look at three solutions below, but you can, of course, start your own search here.

The Bespoke Alfresco Kitchen

The Bespoke Alfresco Kitchen by DMC Projects provides the ultimate outdoor dining experience. Being bespoke, these kitchens are built to order, taking into consideration your exact needs and requirements. The undercover area means that DMC have you covered, literally, no matter what sudden changes occur in our unpredictable climate.

They come complete with everything you need to be the host/hostess with the most, which includes:

Beefeater BBQ’s
Granite worktops
Pizza ovens
Sinks and Fridges

DMC Projects cover the Kent and London areas and can also provide a bespoke undercover seating area, which you can find here.

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10 Seater BBQ Hut

The 10 seater BBQ hut by Living Outside Ltd is the entry-level BBQ by the seller. It also comes in the larger 15-seater and 25-seater options.

These BBQ Huts originated in Lapland where they are known as “Grillikota”. They have been built using the traditional Scandinavian design and high-quality Scandinavian Spruce wood. They are a popular option with visitors to our marketplace allowing owners to BBQ, whatever the weather, at any time of year! If you like to host parties or cook on the BBQ year round then this is the solution for you.

The benches in the BBQ Huts even convert into generously sized beds, so the BBQ Hut can be used both during the day for entertainment and at night for guest accommodation or sleep-overs, what more could you need?

Solardome® Haven

The Solardome® Haven By Solardome is a beautiful geodesic transparent dome that is incredibly versatile. Lending itself well to a greenhouse, it is also fantastic as a sheltered seating area to protect you from the unpredictable British weather. No longer do you need to check the weather before making plans, should the heavens open, you can simply relocate inside the beautiful dome where you are protected from the elements while in a unique position to see them in above you, it’s almost magical!

These domes also come in white and silver. You can watch a short video about them here.

This concludes our little showcase. Don’t forget, there are more options on our marketplace, with solutions to suit most budgets.

4 Summer DIY Projects

Posted on 23rd July 202014th December 2020

The children have broken up for summer, not that it’s made much difference for many this year with the Coronavirus pandemic leaving many children at home since March. With another six weeks until schools return, and many places to visit and holiday destinations, not an option, you may be looking for a project to keep the family busy this summer. We have trawled through the sea of listings on our marketplace to find four DIY projects that could keep you entertained this summer while giving you a great garden space.

DIY Garden Pod

This attractive Garden Pod by HG Spaces comes in a choice of two sizes, either 3m x 3m or 3m x 4m. Made from slow grown Spruce timber, chosen specifically for its tight, dense wood grain. These summerhouses arrive untreated as standard. This means you can choose the final finish and paint or stain the pod to match or complement your garden after installation. You also have a choice in the colour of the Bitumen shingle which is included as standard and is availiable in Black, Red or Green, meaning you can make this building truly fit in with its surroundings and personalise it. The double glazed doors are included. Once completed, you can sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labour.

Lugarde Applebroog Summer House

The Applebroog Summerhouse is available through Cotswold Garden Buildings and is an extremely handsome DIY summerhouse. This building draws upon industrial elements through the glass panels and the vertical Siberian larch boards to provide a clean and relaxed space to relax and entertain. The enclosed space is accessed through a ‘secret door on the front and has long glass panels on the left and right-hand side walls to provide natural light. The Applebroog is also highly customisable with a range of optional extras to choose from. The Siberian larch construction can remain untreated for 15-20 years however it can be enhanced with oils, stains and solid finishes. The building comes in pre-made panels for quick and easy installation and low maintenance, videos can be supplied to aid you in the build process from start to finish. We imagine the feeling of reward when this beauty is finished will be immense.

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Alex Log Cabin

The stylish design of the Alex Log Cabin by Cabin Living makes it a popular choice with lots of natural light owing to the amount of glass. Constructed of 44mm thick walls made from solid slow grown Spruce with double glazed timber double doors and windows this little cabin has a lot of character. perfect for a relaxation space, a writers retreat or somewhere to send the children perhaps? What would you do with this extra space?

Self Build Shepherd Hut Bundle

These self-build shepherd’s huts by Tithe Barn Shepherd’s Huts are something a little different. Ex-Prime Minister, David Cameron made the Shepherd Hut the must-have item for gardens a few years back. Since then they have been an incredibly popular extra space solution. The self-build option makes them affordable for the many while giving you a project to complete over the summer. They come in a range of size options to suit and come with full plans and a comprehensive step-by-step guide, with photographic and written instructions to lead you through your first build.

Workshop & Garages | 5 Top Picks

Posted on 16th July 202014th December 2020

Many things have changed this year, it’s been a crazy rollercoaster of a ride, one that I’m sure nobody will forget in a hurry. One of the biggest changes was the changes to working arrangements. With many in fear of their job security or having to adapt and work from home we have seen a trend in people deciding to focus on businesses that may have been on the back burner for a while.

We have previously covered some garden office solutions. This time we are looking at some of our favourite workshops and garages which can be used for a variety of purposes, from storage to somewhere to be creative or get your hands dirty. We’ve listed 6 popular Garages & Workshops below.

Wooden Garages – 20+ Sizing Options

This timber garages are created by Tunstall Garden Buildings and come in a very flexible 20+ sizing options allowing you to get the exact space you need. Their timber garage range is designed to last, and all of our wooden garages have been built to very high specifications, so they can take pride of place in your garden. You can choose from four different cladding finishes and extras such as joinery made double doors (part glazed or solid), up and over doors or infilled up and over doors,

The seller can deliver throughout the UK.

Bespoke Wooden Shed / Workshop

We love this quirky creation by Castles Carey. Their bespoke wooden workshops can be created with a log-store on the side, where your wood supplies dry out undercover ready for use in winter to keep your home warm. These bespoke buildings are designed to blend with their environment, each one is made to measure to suit your exacting needs. these buildings are made from natural wood, inside and out, can be insulated throughout and can have windows, internal doors, fitted shelving, bunk beds, step ladders as required.

These are delivered throughout the UK.

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Standard Shed and Workshop Range

Not Just Your Normal High-Street Shed! The Standard shed and workshop range by Hargreavesare constructed with 2×2 inch timber frames with shiplap or log lap cladding. The can design and build their workshops to any size, design or style you require.These workshops provide the best protection against even the most extreme weather conditions with a multi-layer build process which provides strength and longevity.

They can be delivered across the UK.

The Garden Workshop

The garden Workshop by Green Retreats is the perfect ‘blank canvas’ garden room product, scaled-back to include all the basics you need for a workshop space. Fully insulated and maintenance-free, the Garden Workshop offers you a modern alternative to a house extension, loft conversion or garage conversion. Included with your Garden Workshop is a single door or 1.45m French doors, an opening lozenge window, integrated guttering, a choice of laminate flooring or carpet, 3 x double surface mounted electrical sockets, oil-filled radiator, interior and exterior light and a simple plywood interior wall finish.

They can be delivered throughout the UK.

Apex & Pent Workshop

This workshop by Bentleys Garden Buildings is constructed with the most heavy-duty panel type they offer; the Apex and Pent Workshops are one of their best sellers! They are made to order which means you can have the perfect workshop designed for your needs. With three cladding options, you can choose the best finish to complement your garden!

Bentleys garden Buildings are located in Leicester but can deliver to most of England and Wales.

•The Featured Image at the top is The Bespoke Room by RA Garden Rooms

Playroom & Teen Pads | 9 Garden Rooms For Cool Kids

Posted on 9th July 202014th December 2020

All parents know that children require a lot of space to store their things, play, learn and explore their environment. Garden rooms are an ideal space for children to play and relax safely, keeping excess toys contained and helping to reduce stress and anxiety in parents. As they get older, the needs change from play to somewhere they can be independent and hang out with friends. Garden rooms and cabins are a versatile solution that can be adapted as they grow. Here are our top 9 picks for structures suitable for use as a playroom/teen pad from a variety of top sellers…

Steel Framed Home Office

Whilst the name suggests this structure is fitting for use as an office, it would also make an ideal playroom or teen pad for those looking for a small unit at a budget price. Starting from just £9,995, this room by Option Garden Buildings has sliding patio doors which allow you to keep an eye on your little ones from the garden or rear-facing room in the house. The use of steel in the construction makes this unit extremely strong and allows it to be almost entirely erected offsite for a speedy and convenient installation.

The Playroom

This large, attractive design by Curve Garden Rooms is ideal for a playroom with glass windows and doors all around, enabling you to supervise the children easily wherever you are in the garden or rear facing room in the house. It also has a nice 1.5m wide wrap-around decking feature making it stand out and providing extra space for outside play and seating. This room has 2 sets of top quality aluminium bifold doors. When closed, they offer fantastic light and, when open, give a real wow factor, opening up the main corner. Two more windows (one top hung opening) and a skylight ensure there’s no shortage of natural light. A room to really enjoy that will compliment a beautiful garden. Prices start from £25,000 and the unit is bespoke, allowing you to create the perfect playroom for your individual needs.

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Libby-Mae 44mm Log Cabin

The Libby-mae log cabin by 1 Click Log Cabins has a distinct European stylish design with its generous 1.2m deep veranda. At a bargain price starting at £4,699, you can save money by assembling the item yourself or, should you wish, pay extra for installation. This pretty log cabin has a large internal storage shelf above the veranda which is perfect for keeping all those toys neat and tidy. It comes with draft sealed doors and windows with toughened glass and is made from European high-grade softwood. This cabin provides an attractive, multipurpose room which also makes the ideal teen hangout at the end of the garden, with a nice veranda to enjoy the outdoor air.

The Classic

This traditional, well-loved design by Yr Pods Ltd will fit in well in any garden and is fully customisable with prices starting from a reasonable £10,794. The uPVC windows and doors, maintenance-free cladding options and metal roof tiles all come in a choice of colours and styles. It is fully insulated and comes with plug sockets and LED lighting as standard. This small 3m x 3m is perfect for a playroom in smaller gardens or for smaller families as a long-lasting alternative to a wendy house which can grow with the children to provide somewhere dry for older children to play or hang out with friends without worrying about the noise so much.

Bespoke Composite Garden Room

The whole family will love this standout design by Composite Garden Rooms which features an additional outside decking area which is perfect for seating in all weathers with its external canopy. It has front and side decking with access steps including spotlights, providing practicality and visual appeal in the evenings. It is fully customisable with a choice of colours, windows and doors. Prices start at £10,698.

Wolfgang Log Cabin

The Wolfgang log cabin by Urban Décor makes a beautiful playroom with the practical addition of a side annexe for storing outside toys and play equipment. The Wolfgang features a wide, low pitched roof for a cosy and homely feel. The full height internal partition separates it into two and each room benefits from its own access door – double to the summerhouse and single to the annexe. This design also features a small front porch which is perfect for shade on summer days, it also protects the front of the cabin from the effects of the weather. You can choose a natural wood colour or paint it to give it additional character. Prices start from £14,000.

Tranquil Garden Room Four

This quality garden room by Tranquil Garden Rooms Ltd features large bi-folding doors which not only let plenty of light in but also allow you to easily supervise your child’s activities when in the garden or rear-facing room of the main house. It comes in a variety of sizes with prices starting from £12,600 for the smaller option. Built from sustainably sourced timber, this attractive garden room features a 1m overhang, redwood thermowood cladding, aluminium bi-folding doors, internal and external down-lighters, 5 double sockets, electric heater and fully insulated floors, walls and roof.

The FatPod

If you’re looking for something a little different that your kids will never want to leave, then this futuristic FatPod by Archipod has you covered. It has a diameter of 2.9m internally at the widest point and contains shelving for storage, a skylight window for natural lighting as well as spotlights. This option starts at £20,000 and is ideal as a gaming room for older children and teens to hang out in with their friends. This pod will definitely give your garden the wow factor, impressing everyone who lays eyes on it.

Bespoke Garden Room

This attractive garden room by Castles Carey is made from natural wood inside and out to ensure it fits in beautifully in your garden. With prices starting from just £10,000, this offering is bespoke, allowing you to design the perfect playroom for your little ones. Your room can be insulated throughout with windows, internal doors, fitted shelving, bunk beds, step ladders and more, allowing you to create an incredible space for your children to play, relax and even have sleepovers in.

10 Awesome Annexes

Posted on 2nd July 202014th December 2020

If you are looking to extend your home to allow for additional living or sleeping space, then a garden room is the ideal solution to create annexes. Garden rooms can be custom designed to perfectly compromise your environment and suit your exact needs. We have plenty of beautiful designs from top sellers to suit all needs and budgets. Here are our top 10 picks for annexes and bedsits…

PRIMO.26.26

This compact garden room sold by A Room in the Garden is budget-friendly and perfect for those with space constraints. It will sleep 1-2 people if you’re looking for a small bedsit space at a budget price of £9,500. Full installation is included in the price and the unit is finished with plywood panels inside, which you can paint yourself. It comes with Grey uPVC double glazed double French doors, Tilt&Open window set, full electrical connection to your house, consumer unit, and 2 double sockets inside, 2 wall mounted LED lights, 1 external light, plywood internal walls, and commercial grade laminate floor panels.

The Wansfell

Sold by Garden Room Design, The Wansfell has a rather distinctive look with clean lines and full width sliding patio doors in black together with the contrast of the larch. This modern cube-like design will fit in well in any garden, whilst being striking enough to stand out as a beautiful addition. It can be finished in a variety of external cladding and comes in many sizes with prices starting from £14,495. This is an eco-friendly option with low running costs since the seller uses the latest eco-building products including extensive insulation, low energy LED lighting, and heating. We also use low E energy saving double glazing.

Annex

This spacious and attractive annex sold by Sensational Spaces is designed specifically to provide comfortable living space for your loved ones. With prices from £40,000, you can create a bespoke version of this annex that perfectly meets your needs, enabling you to provide a nearby space offering independence to the occupant whilst being close enough should they have caring needs. This unit is large enough to comfortably provide living and sleeping space with washing and cooking facilities for independent living.

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Arkrooms Garden Annex

This customisable garden annex sold by Ark Design Build is a perfect independent living space with a full bathroom and kitchenette area. Any size and style can be achieved to meet all needs, with prices starting at £28,000 for a 4mx4m design. As bespoke or off the shelf as you want, a host of extras like air conditioning and security cameras or composite deck areas can be added to complete the space.

Cedar Cladded Outbuilding

This cedar cladded outbuilding by Oakston Solutions is an attractive garden space that can be used for many purposes and is large enough to sleep 1-2 people if you are looking for an additional bedroom space. Western red cedar is a very fashionable, beautiful timber that’s very durable due to natural oils within it, making it a perfect material to finish off a garden room externally. This option can be customised to suit your needs and prices start from £22,200. It comes with plastered finished walls as standard, giving you the feel of being in a room in your home. You can even have under-floor heating installed to keep you warm during the cold winter months.

The Eco Box

The Eco Box by Smart Eco Glamping is perfect for the larger garden or commercial space, offering a comfortable space with an air of luxury. It’s a great option for the eco-conscious as the seller endeavours to incorporate eco features throughout all their products. Sustainably sourced wood, highly insulated walls and roofs (to building regulation standards), and the most up to date renewable technologies are used for heating and ventilation. Prices start from a reasonable £30,000.

The Ascot

If you’re a looking for a home away from home, this luxury offering from Manor Park Homes gives you everything you need and more. The Ascot encapsulates a traditional grand manor styled home with a modern twist and features an opulent regal colour scheme. The versatility of its interior and exterior design makes it a perfect lodge or residential home. This 2 bedroom home showcases the seller’s keen attention to detail when it comes to home build and interior design trends. This option is customisable to suit your needs with prices starting from £140,000.

The B&B Herdsman

This iconic shepherd hut design by Greendown Shepherd Huts is ideal for annexes and would look lovely in any garden or rural B&B business location. This hut comes fully equipped and ready to use. The only thing left for you to do is connect the water supply, connect the waste pipe, and plug in the electricity supply. The hut also has a lifespan of over 20 years, making it a long-lasting option for B&Bs and other overnight stay companies. This lovely hut can be yours for just £33,000.

The Apartment Pod

The Apartment Pod by Lune Valley Pods is a unique modular design that really gives the wow factor. The Apartment pod can really be anything you want it to be as it allows for multiple modules being put together to form larger, longer, and bespoke buildings. Add as many sections as your heart desires. Perfect for incorporating outdoor kitchens, seating areas, and hot tubs – the list is endless, meaning it an ideal addition for any glamping business. This product is perfect for those longer stay holidays with the whole family. You can sleep up to 6 in this pod or you can specify it to sleep 2 and live like kings! This pod has 3 distinct rooms with a large open plan kitchen/living space, a bedroom, and a bathroom. Prices start at £39,000.

The Attree Room

The Attree Room is a contemporary design by RA Garden Rooms which includes a separate space for a hot tub or seating area, giving it a unique feel compared to many garden rooms of a similar size. This additional space can even be used for extra storage, should you wish to add doors. With prices starting from a very reasonable £21,000, this room is suitable for most budgets and comes with UPVC windows and french door, thermowood vertical cladding on the exterior, 2 outside lights, 4 chrome double sockets with 1 USB connection, plaster finish with white painted walls inside for a homely feel and oak effect or grey oak laminate flooring.

Annexes are ideal for creating independent living solutions; with the cost of housing ever-increasing, grown-up children could find their first home in an annexe, or perhaps your parents now need to be close. These annexes can provide comfortable accommodation. But if none of these have taken your fancy, don’t worry, we have lots more for you to browse through here.