GARDEN STORAGE

FUNCTION

Most gardens that we come across in the course of our work require the construction of some kind of storage unit, the design of which depends very much on the demands of the homeowner and the situation of the property. For example; in gardens with limited space, something as simple as the discrete storage of waste becomes a point of much debate. At the front of the property involved in this Wandsworth garden design we were asked to construct a bespoke timber store to house the bins. The finished unit was both practical and easy on the eye. 

PROTECTION AGAINST THE ELEMENTS

This solution was an exception to the rule that usually demands that we take into consideration the effects of the elements on the items that are to be stored. The answer need not always be designed or made bespoke. If the  clients are keen gardeners or have young children, then we might suggest buying in a shed to hold a lawn mower, hand tools, bikes and play things.  In some cases this will not be practical and we may be asked to create something to suit the situation. The above image of a store, from a Barnes garden design and build project, was once such case. The result was a tidy and visually pleasing unit that took inspiration from the slate roofing of the surrounding area.

STYLE

In a heavily ‘designed’ garden where the build is very high spec, we may need to be much more thoughtful in our approach to theappearance of the storage unit so that it integrates seamlessly into the overall feel of the finished garden. The barbecue store featured in this Chiswick garden design and build project is one such case in point. From an aesthetic point of view the unit had to fit in with the crisp finish of the rest of the garden. This was achieved by using rendered block work to tie in with the raised bed and stained timber to match the slatted screens. From a practical point of view the structure needed to be able to house a large gas burner and a gas bottle. It also had to have a watertight and easily retractable lid  for the inevitable rain showers that would ensue as soon as the burner was lit! We were not able to guarantee the clemency of the weather but I like to think that we came up with and attractive and practical solution to the brief.

If you have seen anything of interest in terms of garden storage or any other aspect of garden design and build whilst browsing our website, do get in touch. And remember, although it may not seem that way, summer is just around the corner! Thanks Ben