Real Project: The Perfect 'Summer House' for Smaller Gardens (With Double Water Harvesting!)

One of the biggest misconceptions we hear is: "My garden is too small for a timber cabin."

This recent installation proves that size isn't everything. This classic Summer House model is compact enough to slot into a tight corner next to a fence, yet spacious enough inside to serve as a reading room, hobby den, or essential garden storage.

1. Designed for Tight Spaces

If you look at the photo, you can see the cabin sits very close to the boundary fences.

• The Apex Advantage: The pitched roof keeps the eaves height low (typically under 2.5m), which is crucial for complying with UK Permitted Development rules when building within 2 meters of a boundary.
• Compact Footprint: Despite its small size, the double doors open wide to make the space feel connected to the patio.

2. Double Rainwater Harvesting

This customer takes gardening seriously. Notice the two large green water butts – one on each side of the cabin.

• Why two? A small roof like this can still generate hundreds of litres of runoff. By tapping into both downpipes, the owner maximizes their free water storage.
• Easy Access: The butts are raised on stands, making it easy to fill a watering can directly from the tap.

Eco Tip: Installing a water butt on both sides of your cabin is a smart move if your garden layout allows it. It doubles your capacity without taking up any extra floor space inside the shed.

3. Natural Timber Finish

This cabin is shown in its raw, "bright wood" state. It looks fresh and clean, highlighting the quality of the spruce logs. However, because it is so close to the fence (where maintenance is tricky), we strongly advised the customer to treat the rear and side walls with a high-quality preservative before the final assembly or immediately after, to ensure those hidden areas are protected from rot for years to come.

4. Solid Roof Structure

Even on a smaller model, we don't cut corners. You can see the thick purlins (roof beams) extending out to form the front canopy. This isn't a flimsy shed roof; it's the same heavy-duty construction we use on our larger residential cabins.

Summary

This project is proof that you don't need a sprawling country estate to enjoy a timber building. With the right design, even a modest corner of a suburban garden can be transformed into a functional, eco-friendly retreat.

Have a small or awkward space? Send us your measurements, and we’ll help you find a model that fits.