Summer houses, garden houses, garden offices and log cabins: people are increasingly using sections of their gardens as a means of creating extra living space.

Even when sticking to local council guidelines, quite adventurous spaces can be designed without the need for planning permission.

When planning permission is needed, the process is generally straight forward and the projects remain a cost effective and efficient way to improve ones home environment.

An office built at the bottom of the garden will create less upheaval than converting a loft for the same function.