21 July Advice

How Long Does Building a Custom Garden Room Take?

Pete Guerin, the founder of PMG Garden Rooms, has built a reputation as one of the most trusted Garden Room builders in St Albans and beyond. By helping homeowners design and construct bespoke Garden Rooms, Pete brings years of experience and a passion for creating functional yet beautiful structures. 

If you have been thinking about adding a peaceful retreat, a home office, or even a creative studio to your garden, you are not alone. Adding a Garden Room to your home is an exciting way to extend your living space, create a new area for work or leisure, and enhance your property’s value. At PMG Garden Rooms, we specialise in crafting bespoke structures that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle and garden.

One of the most common questions we are asked is: “How long does it take to build a Garden Room?” and we are here to answer! 

Let us walk you through the typical timeline.

How Long Does it Take to Build a Garden Room? – Typical Timeline

On average, building a custom Garden Room with PMG Garden Rooms takes around 4-6 weeks depending on size and specification.

The process is designed to be smooth, efficient, and tailored to your needs. From the first site survey and custom design discussions to sourcing premium materials and managing expert on-site construction, every step is carefully planned to ensure quality and satisfaction.

Smaller, simpler Garden Rooms may be completed more quickly, while larger, multi-functional garden studios or those with specialist features (such as integrated bathrooms, home offices, or gyms) may take a little longer. We work closely with each client to deliver a realistic, reliable timeline, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum enjoyment of your new space.

To learn more about what you can achieve with a Garden Room, visit our guide on the benefits of Garden Rooms.

Key Stages of the Garden Room Construction Process

Stage 1: Consultation and Custom Design Planning (1-2 weeks)

The first stage involves discussing your vision, assessing the site, and designing a layout that suits your needs and space. Typically, this phase takes around 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the complexity of the project.

During this stage, we also determine whether planning permission is required for your specific build. In most cases, Garden Rooms fall under permitted development, meaning you may not need to apply for full planning permission. However, factors like size, placement, and usage can influence this. 

For general guidance, refer to the Planning Portal UK – the official source for permitted development rules in England.

Stage 2: Preparation and Material Manufacturing (2-4 weeks)

Once the design is finalised, the preparation stage begins. This includes sourcing high-quality materials and prefabricating structural elements off-site to streamline the installation.

We also assess any upgrades or specialist materials you might have requested at this stage; whether that includes eco-friendly options, advanced insulation, or structural reinforcements for specific uses.

The preparation and manufacturing stage generally takes 2 to 4 weeks. 

Stage 3: On-Site Installation and Build (3–6 weeks)

The on-site construction stage includes:

  • Preparing and installing the foundation (such as concrete or ground screws)
  • Building the frame and external structure
  • Installing insulation, windows, doors, and roofing

Depending on size and specifications, this stage typically takes between  3-6 weeks.

If your Garden Room design includes specialist installations; like plumbing for a toilet or shower-this can add a few extra days to the construction timeline. Our team frequently delivers projects with these features, and you can explore what’s involved in our guide to adding a toilet and shower to a Garden Room.

Stage 4: Final Finishing Touches and Handover (up to 1 week)

The final stage brings everything together to make your new Garden Room feel complete. This includes:

  • Painting or staining the exterior and interior finishes (where required)
  • Installing skirting boards, light fittings, sockets, switches, and any final custom joinery
  • Conducting electrical checks, certifications, and ensuring all systems-such as lighting, heating, or internet-are tested and operational

Depending on the features and level of finish you have chosen, this stage typically takes up to 1 week. It is also the point where our team walks you through the final build, explains maintenance guidance, and answers any questions you have.

Looking for a more hands-on breakdown of each stage? Check out our full How to Build a Garden Room guide for practical steps, materials, and expert tips.

Factors That Influence Garden Room Build Times

If you are planning your budget, it is important to understand what can affect the total cost. 

From the size of your build to the materials you choose and the features you add, each decision plays a role. For a full overview, check out our garden room cost breakdown.

Several variables can impact the overall timeline of a garden room project:

  • Custom Features: Additional elements like bathrooms, air conditioning, or bespoke joinery can extend the timeline.
  • Site Access: Restricted access may slow down material deliveries and construction.
  • Weather Conditions: Poor weather, especially heavy rain or snow, can cause delays during the foundation and construction stages.
  • Planning Permission: While most garden rooms fall under permitted development rights, obtaining planning permission where required can add 8-12 weeks to the timeline.

For more details on designing the perfect space, check our garden room size guide and garden room insulation guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the steps to building a garden room?

Building a garden room involves several key stages: choosing the right location, understanding planning rules, designing the layout, sourcing materials, and managing installation. Check this detailed guide on how to build a garden room to learn more about the steps involved..

Do garden rooms need planning permission?

In many cases, no. Most garden rooms fall under permitted development rights, but larger or more complex builds may require approval. Find out more in our garden room planning permission.

What affects how long a garden room takes to build?

Design complexity, specialist features, access to your site, and weather can all affect the build time. For a cost-related breakdown, see our garden room cost article.

Can I add a bathroom or kitchen to a garden room?

Yes, many clients add toilets, showers, or even small kitchenettes to their garden rooms. These extras may affect the project timeline. Read more in our toilet and shower installation guide.

Want to Create Your Custom Garden Room with PMG?

At PMG Garden Rooms, we specialise in Custom builds tailored to your specific needs. Our expertise in St Albans ensures your project is seamless, stress-free, and compliant with local regulations.

Our project portfolio showcases a diverse range of garden rooms, from snug retreats nestled in small gardens to expansive studios that make a statement. Each custom garden room built by PMG Garden Rooms in St Albans is designed with the client’s unique lifestyle and property in mind. Each project illustrates our commitment to bespoke design, fine craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction.

Want to learn more? Reach out for a personalised consultation and quote. Or Contact us to begin planning your ideal Garden Room in the St Albans area. Let us help you design a space that fits perfectly into your life and garden!