We see you. We recognise your pained expression as if we were looking in the mirror. We feel your shame, and only because we’re in the same boat as you…
Hands up how many of you invested in a garden room during the height of the pandemic, with the noble aim of turning it into your very own pub or home office?
Much like us, this dream died when the lockdown drawbridge was lowered, and now that the boozers and central offices are back open, might we assume that your garden room is gathering dust, or has been reluctantly repurposed into a second shed?
Same. But hear us out; your garden room can be so much more than just another space to store a lawn mower, some shears and rotting wooden stepladder you never use. Enter the garden room as wellness space…
With the much discussed connections between spending time in nature and an improved sense of wellbeing, there’s never been a more convenient wellness retreat than your own back garden. While you’re out there, luxuriating in a sense of calmness, consider these; our 8 interesting ideas for repurposing your garden room into a wellness space.
A Reading Nook Or Library
Because we all need somewhere to retreat away from the noise of the house to embrace the power of a reading (or just scroll mindlessly through Twitter), right?
Create a cosy corner in your garden room filled with comfortable seating, soft lighting, and shelves brimming with your favourite books. Surrounded by lush greenery, this reading nook will become your go-to spot for escaping reality and diving into literary adventures. Plus, you’ll finally have a place to display all those gardening books you’ve been collecting!
You can also add some personal touches to make the space even more inviting. Consider hanging some framed artwork or photographs on the walls, or adding a few potted plants to bring even more of the outdoors inside. A small table or sideboard can hold a warm cup of tea or coffee, and a cosy throw blanket can be draped over the back of a chair for those chilly evenings. With all these elements in place, you’ll have the perfect spot to unwind and lose yourself in a good book.
A Yoga Studio
Why pay for an expensive membership when you can practise yoga in the tranquillity of your own garden room? Lay down some mats, add a few candles or incense sticks, and let the calming energy of nature (and Adrienne) guide you through your sun salutations.
Not only is practising yoga in your own garden room cost-effective, but it also allows you to customise the ambiance to your liking. You can play your favourite music, open the windows to let in some fresh air, and even incorporate natural elements such as potted plants or a small water fountain to enhance the serene atmosphere.
Of course, being surrounded by nature can help deepen your connection with your inner self and leave you feeling more rejuvenated and centred after your practice. So why not give it a try? Namaste.
Read: 6 IDEAL tips for yoga beginners on how to get started
A Home Gym
Who needs a gym buddy when you’ve got Mother Nature as your workout partner? Set up your exercise equipment in your garden room and enjoy the view of domestic green pastures as you break a sweat. The oxygen-rich environment may even help you breathe easier and push yourself harder during your workouts.
Not to mention, working out in nature – so called ‘green exercise’ – has also been said to reduce stress levels and boost overall well-being. That said, even the best garden rooms may struggle to accommodate a treadmill, squat racks and other bulky pieces of equipment. Instead, prioritise smaller items that give your body a full workout without dominating your space.
Some simple, small home gym items to add to your garden room-cum-home gym that can give your whole body a workout include:
- Exercise Mat
- Adjustable Dumbbells
- Jump Rope
- Resistance Bands
- Medicine Ball
- Balance Board
- Pull Up Bar
- Step Platform
- Weight Plates
A Tea Room
Or, how about creating a peaceful tea room out back, where you can enjoy a cup of your favourite brew while admiring your garden. Set up a small table and chairs, and bring in some of your favourite teacups and saucers. Invite friends over for afternoon tea and let the calming atmosphere of your garden room transport you to more simple, different times. Better times? Not for all…
Read: How to throw the perfect afternoon tea party with a twist
A Home Cinema
Turn your garden room into a home cinema where you can relax and watch your favourite films in peace. Set up a projector and screen, add some comfy seating, and don’t forget the popcorn! The plants will appreciate the extra CO2 from your laughter during comedy nights.
For an even more immersive experience, consider adding some mood lighting to your garden room home cinema. You should also install some soundproofing materials to prevent outside noise from disrupting your viewing pleasure (and from you disturbing your neighbours, of course!).
Check out our guide on building your own cinema for more.
A Home Spa
Transform your garden room into a serene spa-like experience by adding a massage table, jacuzzi, essential oil diffuser, and the ubiquitous Enya soundtrack. Should you have a partner skilled (or willing) with their hands, then indulge in relaxing treatments like facials or massages, all while basking in the natural ambiance of your garden room. It’s self-care on a whole new level!
Another idea is to install a small fountain or waterfall feature nearby to create that tranquil atmosphere and trickling sound so associated with the spa experience (or, of course, going to the toilet). Alternatively, you could take things several steps further – and hotter – and turn your garden room into a sauna.
The best home saunas for your garden spa are those that combine personal preference with functionality, such as energy-efficient infrared saunas that offer deep, penetrating heat, or traditional steam saunas for an authentic high-heat experience. When selecting a sauna, consider size for comfort, materials like cedar or hemlock for durability and aroma, and customisation options like LED lighting and aromatherapy for enhanced relaxation. Prioritize safety features like automatic shut-off and easy maintenance to ensure a seamless integration into your serene garden spa, creating a personal wellness retreat that allows for detoxification and relaxation right in your backyard.
Whatever your preference, transforming your garden room into a serene spa is the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate without ever leaving your garden.
An Art Studio
Unleash your inner artist and turn your garden room into a creative haven. Set up an easel and let the beauty of nature inspire your next masterpiece. The vibrant colours and textures of your plants may spark your creativity and help you find your muse, should you have been watering them enough, that is.
To complete that sense of inspiration and input, hang some beautiful paintings, photographs or tapestries on the walls, whether they’re your own work or those of someone a little more skilled with the paintbrush.
This will not only add colour and texture to your garden room but also create a personalised and artistic touch. With your garden room serving as your creative haven, you can now explore your artistic talents and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of painting. What’s not to love?
A Space For Meditation
What better way to use your garden room than for a peaceful, undisturbed place for meditation and mindfulness practices. The soothing sounds of birds gently chirping and leaves rustling in your garden will help you find your zen in no time.
Though if you find it difficult to concentrate in complete silence – aside from that organic soundtrack – consider adding some ambient music or guided meditation tracks to your meditation space. Soft lighting can also help to create a calming atmosphere, so try using candles, fairy lights, or a dimmer switch to adjust the brightness of your garden room.
Whatever you choose, make sure that your meditation corner is a place where you feel comfortable, relaxed, and able to connect with your inner self. With regular practice, you’ll soon discover that your garden room has become a sanctuary of stillness and mindfulness that you can retreat to whenever you need to recharge and reset.