This article was reviewed by the Palmako UK editorial team, with input from garden building specialists who understand UK regulations, timber construction, and outdoor living design.
Are you dreaming of a dedicated working area without losing square footage in your main house? A garden office might be the perfect way to solve both problems. However, with costs floating anywhere between £5,000 and £50,000+, you need to know what you’re committing to.
By discussing exactly how much a garden office can cost in 2025, we’ll help you navigate a wide spectrum of options, from a compact pre-fabricated build to a highly customised smart office space. Let’s get you out of your home and into your garden room as fast as possible.
🏡 If you’re ready to jump into garden room options right away, you can start with the latest Palmako range of prefab cabins (including an array of cabins under 2.5m, which generally do not require planning permission).
Base models: DIY or prefab kits
Ly (3.3x4.5m | 13.6m2) Modern Timber Garden Office
What is a DIY or prefab unit?
A DIY or prefab unit is a garden office building that is manufactured according to the supplier's specifications. It is generally designed for self-assembly, but can also be assembled by the supplier or a workman.
The cabin parts are packed and labelled for assembly according to an instruction manual, and can be moderately customised to suit your personal preferences. Examples of this include the placement of doors and windows, the choice of colour (applied in the factory), and treatments.
How much do DIY or prefab units cost?
According to one source, these entry-level models vary between £2,500 and £8,000 for a 3×3 m unit. Additional costs can also include:
|
Additional construction element |
Cost |
|
Assembly |
£700–1,800 |
|
Decking |
£80–100/m² |
|
Flat roofing (can be included in the cost of the cabin) |
£86–120/m² |
|
Electrical wiring |
£35–45/hr |
|
Professional decorating |
£25–35/hr |
* Courtesy of CheckATrade.com
A base model garden office building has the advantage of being compact enough to place in a small garden, so if you want a separate office but have very little space to work with, these cabins are ideal.
Watch the Palmako team assemble the Ly modern timber garden office. This will help you visualise what a cabin of this size could look like in your back garden, and decide whether prefab garden office prices are good value vs. the final product quality.
Latest designs in entry-level cabins
Garden office pods are turning the garden office market on its head with their innovative and interesting design styles. These structures are made from smart timber, which can bend and curve to form the ‘pod’ design, organic armadillo-shaped clad structures or rotating spheres.
The prices vary widely, with simple pods costing around £3,337 and going up to £21,500. [2] Garden pods not only solve the need for a private space but also add an interesting element to your garden space, which can add value to your home.
Mid-range models: Prefab kits with extra space
Lenna 402/702 (6x3m | 16.6m2) Glass Garden Room With Sliding Doors (Double Glazing Available)
How does a mid-range model differ from an entry-level model?
Mid-range models differ from entry-level models due to their size and more complex design elements. Built from a range of materials such as timber, metal, PVC, glass, brick, and concrete, these models greatly increase your options. These garden rooms offer a turnkey solution for homeowners who want to invest a little more into their office space and create year-round comfort.
These models are where you can start thinking about smart offices, separate work spaces, multi-function designs, and full business studios, such as exercise studios, beauty studios, design studios, and the like. For inspiration, you can read our resource: Garden Office Ideas for the ‘Work-From-Home’ Professional.
How much do mid-range office units cost?
According to renovation resource, The Page, mid-range models can set you back between £5,000 and £38,800.
|
Additional construction element |
Cost |
|
Assembly |
£700–2,500 |
|
Decking |
£80–100/m² |
|
Electrical connection |
£35–45/hr |
|
Internet connection and smart setup |
£200–700 |
|
Professional decorating |
£25–35/hr |
* various sources
High-end models: Prefab kits for premium garden offices
Amanda M+ (8,7x3m | 17,1+7,8 m2 | 44mm) Modern Garden Room with Canopy and Sliding Doors (Double Glazing Available)
What is a premium garden office?
Premium garden offices are customizable, high-quality rooms that provide a professional work space with amenities such as smart tech features, an energy-efficient design, and multi-purpose areas. A number of trends have emerged for 2025 that show off the forward-thinking nature of these designs. A number of trends have emerged for 2025, showcasing the design innovation of these rooms.
Showcase: Garden Office Interior Ideas: 2025 Trends
How much do premium garden offices cost?
Premium garden offices require a substantial investment from the start, but the return on investment comes in the form of a fully kitted office, in the comfort of your own home. Business owners who previously occupied rental business premises are keen buyers of the premium garden room, because it cuts down on operating costs while increasing the value of the home.
Premium garden rooms cost between £7,000–£50,000+, depending on finishes, size, and other garden office add-ons. Additional expenses may include:
|
Additional construction element |
Cost |
|
Bi-fold doors (can be included in the unit price) |
£3,000–6,000 |
|
Underfloor heating |
£2,000–4,000 |
|
Electricity supply |
£35–45/hr |
|
Floor insulation |
£300 for a 10m² room |
|
Professional painting and decorating |
£385 to £495 |
|
Internet connection and smart setup |
£200–700 |
|
Additional professional labour costs |
£185 and £210 per day [2] |
|
Add a toilet to a garden room |
£1,100 – £2,200 [2] |
|
Add a shower room to a garden office |
£3,300 [2] |
* various sources
Other cost considerations
Insulation
It is not standard for these kinds of cabins to come insulated; however, cabin walls can be prepared for DIY insulation during manufacture. Fully insulated garden rooms begin around £3,200, but if you’re keen to go it alone, this resource will help. 👉 How to insulate a shed (or cabin) for year-round protection.
Foundations and base work
A solid base is essential, and depending on your garden conditions, this could cost £500–£2,000. Options range from poured concrete slabs to adjustable ground screws and timber joists. Uneven ground or access limitations may raise these costs, so factor in excavation or clearance where needed.
Heating and wiring
The insulation of internal wiring and electrical outlets can add another £1,500–£3,000, depending on the length of cable and whether trenching is necessary. Internet cables may require boosters or the laying of underground cables, adding £200–£500.
Ongoing maintenance and running costs
Buying a cabin or your garden office is just the beginning. Many homeowners forget to factor in the running costs of their garden building, but don’t worry, we’ve thought about that in advance. Here are some typical yearly maintenance costs to keep your garden office looking spectacular.
|
Maintenance Item |
Estimated cost |
|
Timber maintenance and sealing |
£80–150 (every 2–3 years) |
|
Roof maintenance |
£0–£200 (varies by material) |
|
Gutter cleaning and window maintenance |
£50/year or DIY |
|
Gardner |
£15 - £45 per day [3] |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will you need planning permission for a DIY or prefab unit?
Generally speaking, you can erect this outdoor office space without planning permission as long as it is 2.5m or less in height, and not less than 2 metres from the boundary line. These measurements may vary across regions, and you should check with your local planning authority. Stricter stipulations will apply for conservancy areas or protected areas.
2. What building regulations do I need to comply with?
You must comply with all building regulations as tabled by your local government authority. These are especially pertinent when adding a toilet, shower, or kitchenette to your garden office.
3. Can a garden room increase the value of my home?
According to Unbiased, a garden room can add between 5-10% to the value of your home, meaning £20k–£40k on a £400k home.
4. Is it cheaper to build your own garden office?
That depends. Current prefabricated kits are reasonably priced and can last between 5-30 years, depending on the materials used and the measures taken to protect the cabin from the elements. So, while you may be able to save some costs, it is unlikely that constructing your own garden office from scratch will be cheaper.
5. What will a basic home office setup cost me?
The most basic set-up will cost you between £4,500–£5,000. This includes the prefab cabin kit, basic electrics, internet, and decor. At this cost, you will be looking at self-assembly.
6. How can I build a garden office on a tight budget?
You can reduce costs by purchasing a high-quality yet reasonably priced garden room in a size you can afford. You can also install DIY insulation, use second-hand furniture, and select a basic foundation and decking. If possible, use the electrical output for the main house.
Conclusion
Thank you for joining us as we discussed the different options you have for building a garden office, and how much that will cost you. Garden rooms can cost anything from £2,500 for an entry-level prefab cabin up to £50,000 for high-end cabins that act as professional businesses, or smart offices.
The good news is that you can build a garden office on a budget with a reasonably priced entry-level cabin and a few smart adaptations. If your dream is to have a garden office, there’s no need to give up on it because you’re on a shoestring budget.
Palmako has a range of cabins that suit every type of need. Whether you want something simple or are going the whole way with a multi-function space, and add-on toilet, shower, or kitchenette, you will find what you are looking for. Our expert consultants are happy to answer any questions you have and help you pick the right garden room for your unique needs. Get in touch with us as soon as you decide which direction to take.
References
1. https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/
2. https://www.myjobquote.co.uk/costs/garden-office
3. https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/gardener-prices/
