How To Create A Custom All-In-One Wooden Workshop & Garage

Do you have a detailed vision for an all-in-one wooden workshop and garage? It’s not easy to find a prefabricated timber building that matches it.

In this article, we offer you some tips to create the combined wooden workshop and garage of your dreams. And you won’t have to build it from scratch yourself.

Choose An Affordable Custom-Built Timber Building

When you look up British timber garage and workshop manufacturers online, you’ll notice that most offer standard-size, off-the-shelf buildings.

It’s easy to see why. These businesses can offer off-the-peg prices and fast deliveries by reproducing a few standardised designs. This option works great if your garden or driveway can fit one of these structures perfectly or if you don’t have specific needs.

But when a standard design doesn’t suit your property or requirements, you’re stuck. You have three options: choose a smaller standard design, attempt a DIY build, or employ a builder - which seriously increases the cost of the build.

If you’re facing this issue, we have good news. A few companies, like Olson Timber Buildings, offer custom-built timber buildings at affordable prices in the UK.

Below, we share tips on creating the all-in-one wooden workshop and garage you envision.

Check Local Planning Rules

Before you place your order, go on the Planning Portal’s website to check if your wooden workshop and garage project falls under permitted development rights or if you need to apply for planning permission.

As a rule of thumb, if you live outside of “designated land,” like a conservation area or an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and the outbuilding covers less than 50% of the total area of land around your house, there’s a good chance you don’t need to apply. But it’s always best to check the information on the Planning Portal’s website or by calling your Local Planning Authority.

Choose The Custom Timber Building Manufacturer

Once you know what restrictions apply to your area, you can start researching custom wooden garage makers. Consider build sturdiness, materials quality, design options and upgrades, and cost.

At Olson Timber Buildings, we build bespoke all-in-one wooden workshops and garages at off-the-peg prices. As a family business with decades of experience, we have built and installed straight and L-shaped timber buildings of all sizes.

When you get in touch for a quote, we design your outbuilding based on an existing plan or your requirements so you can transform one or more bays into a workshop, gym, hobby room, or storage. If you’re on a budget, we create a DIY kit so you can do the installation yourself.

Confirm The Design

Next, you can submit an existing plan to the custom timber building manufacturer or ask them to design the structure based on your needs.

When deciding on the size and design of the building, consider how you plan to use it. How many rooms do you need? How many workstations will it have? Where will the workshop be? What layout will this have?

Also, think about how much space you need to work around the cars and whether you will be working on large items, like long lengths of wood. And don’t forget to dedicate some space to store your tools and equipment. You might like to store extra items in the garage, like a lawn mower and camping equipment.

Finally, consider whether you would like to access the workshop via the garage or a dedicated door and if you need insulation.

Before signing off on the plan, make sure it follows local planning rules.

Apply For Planning Permission

If your area is subject to planning restrictions, you will need to submit a planning application to Local Planning Authority. You can do this on your own or hire an architect to do it for you.

It usually takes around 8 weeks to receive feedback.

Lay The Foundations

Next, it’s time to lay the foundations. Timber buildings must be raised off the ground to prevent moisture and rot.

Make sure you ask your chosen manufacturer what foundations suit their buildings. For example, we require a concrete pad with a single course of bricks.

You’ll need to book the work in advance - don’t leave it too late. The foundations need a week to set before you can install the timber building.

Install The Building

Now, you’re ready to erect your wooden garage and workshop. If you chose a DIY installation, you will likely need a few days to complete the build, depending on the size and structure of the building. Otherwise, you can relax while the manufacturer installs the building.

Install Water And Electricity Systems

While the building is empty, it’s worth fitting it with electricity and water. Before you get started, check if you need to ask for permission on the Planning Portal.

We recommend hiring a Part P-certified electrician for the electrical installation and asking a qualified plumber to connect it to the water mains.

Build The Workshop

Finally, you can build the workshop. You can do this fully DIY, buy some flat-pack furniture to assemble, get some pre-made fittings, or use reclaimed shelving and cabinets.

Once the workshop is up and running, you’re ready to move in your tools.

Common Questions About Wooden Garage Workshops

Can You Have A Workshop In Your Garage?

Yes, in the UK, having a workshop in your garage is allowed. Simply adding a workbench and tools to a standard garage might not be the best solution, though.

You will need plenty of light and a comfortable temperature year-round to work in it. Ensure the building is well insulated, ventilated, and connected to the electricity.

What Is A Good Size For A Garage Workshop?

We recommend a minimum of 3 by 6 metres (10 x 20 feet). If you can, make it 6 by 6 metres (20 x 20 feet) so you have more room to store tools and move around.

What Is A Good Workshop Layout?

It depends on your needs. The best layout is the one that streamlines your work. Popular design options are L-shape and U-shape. But you might be able to work very well on a straight design, too, depending on what you work on.