A summerhouse can be a useful and fantastic addition to any garden, providing a perfect retreat for relaxation, an office space or even a playroom for children. One of the most popular types of summerhouses is the corner summerhouse, designed to fit snugly into the corner of your garden. But how big can you go without needing planning permission? This article will delve into this question and provide some valuable insights.
Understanding Planning Permission
Before we delve into the specifics of how big your corner summerhouse can be without requiring planning permission, it’s important to understand what planning permission is. In simple terms, planning permission refers to the approval needed from local authorities before certain types of building work can be carried out.
In many countries, including the UK and USA, small outbuildings such as summerhouses are considered ‘permitted development’. This means they do not require planning permission provided they meet certain criteria. However, it’s always recommended to check with your local authority as regulations can vary.
The Size Factor
When it comes to size restrictions for a corner summerhouse without planning permission, there are several factors to consider. In general terms, if your property is not listed and you’re not in an area of outstanding natural beauty or conservation area, you should be able to build a summerhouse up to 2.5 meters high without needing planning permission.
However, this height limit applies only if the summerhouse is within 2 meters of any boundary. If it’s further away from any boundary (more than 2 meters), you could potentially build up to 4 meters high under permitted development rights.
In terms of floor area, under permitted development rights in the UK for example, outbuildings must not cover more than half the land around the original house (as it was first built or as it stood on 1 July 1948).
Maximizing Your Corner Summerhouse
To make the most of your corner summerhouse without needing planning permission, consider these tips:
1. Utilize Height: While there are restrictions on how high you can build, you can still maximize this space. A pitched roof, for example, can provide additional storage or even a small loft area.
2. Efficient Layout: The layout of your summerhouse can greatly affect how spacious it feels. Open plan designs generally feel larger and more spacious.
3. Light and Windows: Natural light can make a huge difference in making your summerhouse feel larger. Consider installing large windows or even bi-fold doors to let in plenty of light.
4. Outdoor Space: Don’t forget about the space outside your summerhouse. A well-designed patio or deck area can effectively extend your living space.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the biggest corner summerhouse you can build without planning permission depends on several factors including its height, distance from boundaries, and overall coverage of land around the original house. It’s always best to check with your local authority to understand what is permissible in your specific location.
Remember that while size is important, it’s not everything. A well-designed and thoughtfully laid out corner summerhouse can provide a wonderful retreat regardless of its size. So whether you’re dreaming of a quiet reading nook, a bustling family playroom or an inspiring home office, with careful planning and design, your corner summerhouse can become the perfect addition to your garden.
