Forest Garden has predicted a surge in the sale of summerhouses as homeowners look to beat the credit crunch and falling house prices.
With the Council of Mortgage Lenders reporting that lending in May fell by 19% year-on-year, many homeowners have begun to look to the garden as a means to expand their home.
Will Timmis, Garden Inspirations product manager at Finnforest, predicted that “‘improve not move’ would be the mantra for many” earlier this year, with Forest Garden saying summerhouses offer a cost-effective solution.
This includes the company’s Byron and Wordsworth ranges, which offer up to 13m² of additional space and flexible designs due to their modular construction.
“While extensions and loft conversions have traditionally been the space creating options of choice, investing in a summerhouse can often prove to be a more cost-effective solution, while adding glamour and shelter to your garden,” said director of sales Guy Best.
“The versatility and ease of installation of summerhouses means they are an increasingly popular choice, offering a range of outdoor living solutions.”
This includes areas to entertain friends or studios and office space, added Mr Best.