How Should You Choose and Place Your Garden Building According to Experts?

Garden buildings can transform an ordinary backyard into a multifunctional oasis. Whether it’s for storing tools, nurturing plants, or providing a quiet retreat, the right garden building adds value and charm to your home.

Knowing the different options available to you and what to consider before starting work on a garden building can be the difference between a never-ending work-in-progress and a completed cozy garden building. Before choosing which landscape design companies Sonoma County you’ll start your project with, explore these expert tips on choosing and placing your garden building to ensure it meets your needs and enhances your landscape.

Understand the Purpose of Your Garden Building

Before selecting your garden building, consider its primary function. Why do you want a garden building? Will it serve as a storage shed, a greenhouse, a personal workshop, or perhaps a cozy summer house?

The intended use will heavily influence its design, materials, and location so make sure you have a clear idea before you get started. For example, a workshop might need robust insulation and electrical setups, whereas a greenhouse would require transparent materials and optimal sunlight exposure.

What are the Different Types of Garden Buildings?

Not sure what you’re looking for? No problem! Look at the different garden building varieties below and consider which you’d benefit from the most. Some are more common than others but all have the opportunity to elevate your garden space.

Sheds

A classic! This common garden building is a favorite among those with plenty of extra tools or other items in need of extra storage. While essential for storing garden tools and outdoor equipment, sheds are simple buildings that can be used for storing anything from recreational gear to boxes of holiday decorations.

Greenhouses

A greenhouse is the perfect option for gardeners looking to extend their growing season. These buildings let in copious amounts of light and hold humidity and warmth for ideal growing conditions for many plant types. Make sure you consider your energy costs when looking into greenhouse buildings as they can be more expensive to operate in colder climates.

Workshops

Is your family sick of the dining room smelling like glue and being covered in sawdust? Need a place where you can spill your paint without it staining the carpet? A workshop is the ideal garden building for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts who need a dedicated space. Whether you’re learning the trombone or trying your hand at pottery, these buildings give you a private space to hone your craft.

Summer House

These comfortable garden buildings offer a peaceful getaway within your garden. They can be as small and sparse as a simple living room or as intricate as a tiny house complete with a bathroom and kitchen. If you love to have friends and family over, these spaces can work well as extra sleeping space or entertainment areas.

Office

Why work from home when you could work from your beautiful garden? An office-themed garden building provides a serene environment away from main household disturbances. These buildings can be customized to allow for beautiful views of your outdoor space, adding a sense of natural beauty to your working life.

What Should I Consider Before Constructing a Garden Building?

Before diving into construction, you’ll want to make sure you have everything squared away for an easy and successful build.

Zoning Laws

Understand local zoning laws to determine what can be built and where. If your plans don’t comply with local laws, consider working with a professional to help you redesign.

Your Space

Assess the available space to ensure the building's footprint is proportional to your garden. You don’t want to eat up too much available room in your yard!

Materials

Material choices will affect durability and maintenance; wood offers a classic look but requires regular treatment, while metal is durable but may not blend as seamlessly with every garden's aesthetics.

Your Budget

Budgeting accurately will help manage costs and prevent project overruns. Don’t forget: It’s better to air on the side of caution and limit your budget rather than bust!

How to Choose the Right Location for a Garden Building?

The location of your garden building should consider several factors:

Sunlight and Shade

Consider where your outdoor space gets the most natural light. For greenhouses or offices, position your building where they receive ample natural light. Storage sheds and workshops might be better in shadier areas depending on your needs and preferences.

Accessibility

You should aim to position your garden building for easy access. If possible, potentially align your building with pathways or closer to house entrances. Make sure your blueprints account for which direction doors open and where outside paths are located around your garden building.

Ground Level and Drainage

A stable, level foundation is crucial for any building. Making sure your garden building is on a good foundation and is built with good drainage systems can help to prevent water accumulation and potential water damage.

Aesthetics

Your new garden building should complement the overall design of your garden and home. Working with a professional designer can help you create a cohesive design.

Design Tips to Enhance Functionality and Aesthetics

Consider these tips to help you on your journey to creating a beautiful and functional garden building:

Install Extra Storage

Use clever storage solutions to maximize interior space in smaller garden buildings. Built-in shelving, drawers, or baskets can create extra space inside these smaller-style buildings.

Use Eco-Friendly Solutions

Consider incorporating sustainable features like solar panels or a rainwater harvesting system to reduce environmental impact and ongoing costs. This can be especially helpful for greenhouse garden buildings which can require a lot of energy to keep warm and humid.

DMG Landscaping Makes Your New Garden Building Possible

Ready to bring your garden building to life? Visit DMG Landscaping online or give us a call at  (707) 971-9547 for professional advice, design, and installation that turn your ideas into reality. Let’s craft a garden space that’s perfectly suited to your needs and style.