The question of planning permission and garden studios is a topic that comes up so often with our clients in the Kent & Sussex area. We are experienced in both permitted development and planning applications and the rules that surround garden studios. Below we have outlined the main rules that affect nearly all garden studio builds. How big can my garden studio be? In most scenarios your garden studio, garden office or garden gym will fall within permitted development rules. The main basis for these are that the overall height must be 2.5m. We can build studios to 3m tall falling to a 2.5 ..read more

Project type: Large open plan gym space with separate storage area. Location: Maidstone, Kent Studio size: 22 sqm gym 7 sqm store room Cladding: Thermowood cladding to all external walls Key features: Duel space with extended height of 2.8m externally. 4m bifold doors Internal sliding door Angled design to utilise garden shape Train from you own garden with a gym studio Set in an angled garden in a new development in Tunbridge wells, Kent. This project needed a planning application due to the restrictions set out by the developers. The client decided to also make the studio taller due to t ..read more

Project type: Family Annex with a gym and office space. Location: Paddock Wood, Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Studio size: 47 sqm Cladding: Cedar Cladding to the front with Thermowood to the hidden sides. Key features: Open atrium design, full kitchen and bathroom. Quartz work tops and duel air conditioned spaces. Composite deck area. More than just a garden office. As far as garden studios go, this project in Paddock Wood near Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks in Kent, is the very definition of high end luxury. Our clients wanted a studio space that offered both a garden office and a garden gym in one ..read more

There is no doubt that the Covid pandemic changed a lot of things, one of them was the way we work and the way we use our gardens. Here in Kent and Sussex we saw an influx of enquiries in areas like Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, Bromley, Maidstone and Crowborough. Garden studios and garden offices became a boom industry. It’s estimated that the market went up by nearly 300% in some areas. With this brought a natural gold rush of suppliers all new to the industry. Some had general building experience and some just saw the chance to capitalise while the going was good. Here we are now ..read more

Project type: Family Annex Location: Crowborough, Kent Studio size: 30 sqm Cladding: Cedar Cladding Key features: Full bathroom, kitchen area, store and plus a separate bedroom and en-suite. Ark Design Build have recently finished this stunning annex and garden office in Crowborough, East Sussex. The studio was over the size allowed under permitted development and so a full planning application was required. With two of our teams covering this area we have also made several garden rooms, garden gyms and outside living spaces in Crowborough, Rotherfield, Uckfield, Mayfield and Buxted. The ann ..read more

Project type: Family Annex Location: Brenchley, Kent Studio size: 30 sqm Cladding: Cedar Cladding Key features: Full bathroom, kitchen area, store and utility space Ark Design Build created this incredible studio in the heart of Kent. With a vaulted ceiling and built within the constraints of permitted development the studio is a light and airy space for our clients and guests to enjoy. A large set of bifold doors take in the generous views of the country side. Brass details compliment a stunning and high end en-suite with a large and generous kitchen area to the main space. A studio styl ..read more

A garden studio is a haven for creativity, providing a dedicated space where you can explore your artistic pursuits, engage in hobbies, or simply find inspiration. Designing a garden studio involves careful consideration of its layout, functionality, natural light, ventilation, and the incorporation of greenery. We will delve into design ideas that will unlock your creativity and transform your garden studio into a sanctuary of artistic expression. Studio Layout and Functionality The layout of your garden studio should be conducive to your creative process. Consider the type of activities you ..read more

With the rise of remote work, designing a functional and inspiring garden office has become increasingly important. Creating a dedicated workspace in your garden not only improves productivity but also allows for a better work-life balance. In this blog post, we will guide you through the essential features and layout of a garden office, explore lighting and ergonomic considerations, and provide personalisation tips to make your remote work experience enjoyable and efficient. Essential Features and Layout To design the perfect garden office, consider incorporating essential features such as su ..read more

Transforming your outdoor space with a garden room offers numerous advantages. Not only does it enhance the aesthetics of your garden, but it also provides a range of benefits that can improve your lifestyle. In this blog post, we will explore the key advantages of garden rooms, including increased living space, versatility and functionality, and the unique opportunity to connect with nature. Increased Living Space A garden room adds valuable extra space to your property, allowing you to expand your living area without the need for costly extensions or renovations. Whether you use it as a home ..read more

Project type: Family Annex Location: Tunbridge Wells, Kent Studio size: 46 sqm Cladding: Thermowood Cladding Key features: Full bathroom, dj booth, soundproofing, bespoke storage areas, patio and landscaping. Ark Design Build were tasked with the full turn key project of this incredible space on the border of Royal Tunbridge Wells in Kent. The clients required planning permission due to the scale and height of the studio, this was handled by our team. We included large expanses of bifold doors to open up for those summer months as well as a single rear entry door for practicality. Two large fi ..read more