Summer houses are wonderful additions to any garden. Even in their most basic guises, they provide a pleasant outdoor facility which can be used for reading, eating or simply storing garden furniture. However, summer houses are versatile structures and can be adapted for use as garden offices, gyms or hobby rooms, as long as certain modifications are carried out:

Electricity
The electrical wiring from a residence to a summer house needs to be protected by armored cable. This can then be laid either above ground (clearly marked) or beneath ground in a trench. It is advisable to get an electrician to run a separate supply cable from the consumer unit to the summer house.

Heating & Glazing
For something like a hobby room, the only heating needed would be the occasional use of small electric heaters. However heating an office would require more consistent and controlled heat, so one or two oil-filled radiators fitted with thermostats and timers would be a better option. Double or triple glazed windows are also necessary.

Telephone Connections
British Telecom (BT) or a local telecom supplier will be able to install phone and internet connections, or to save money, an off-the-shelf extension kit could be fitted independently.

Finishing
A plasterboard or plaster skim surface can make the interior of a summer house identical to that of a residence. As a compromise, there are also the options of wall boards and cladding.

Security
A summer house is a much easier target than a house to an intruder, so be sure to fit a motion sensor light. A five-lever mortise lock to the door is also a good idea if the building is going to contain any valuables overnight.

For a wide range of summer houses, garden offices and log cabins, visit Dunster House at www.dhlogcabins.co.uk