Garden Room in Ireland — Cost, Planning, and When It Beats an Extension
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Garden room in Ireland: €8,000–€25,000 installed (typically 10–25 m²). Under 25 m² is exempt from planning (Schedule 2, Class 3 of the Planning Regulations). Over 25 m² needs full planning permission. Uses: home office (most common), gym, playroom, art studio, teenager's retreat, granny flat (with restrictions on overnight use). Cheaper than an extension (€2,500–€3,800/m²) and faster to install (2–4 weeks). Best for sites with a flat garden and a clear sightline to the house. Most modern garden rooms are timber-frame with EWI, double-glazed windows, and a heat pump or electric heater.
TL;DR
Garden room in Ireland: €8,000–€25,000 installed (typically 10–25 m²). Under 25 m² is exempt from planning.
Uses: home office, gym, playroom, art studio, teenager's retreat, granny flat (with restrictions).
Cheaper than an extension (€2,500–€3,800/m²) and faster to install (2–4 weeks). Best for sites with a flat garden and a clear sightline to the house.
When this matters most
You're considering a garden room (home office, gym, etc.).
When this doesn't apply
You've already extended the house.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a garden room cost in Ireland?
€8,000–€25,000 installed (10–25 m²). Under 25 m² is exempt from planning. Most common use: home office. Cheaper than an extension and faster to install.
Do I need planning permission for a garden room in Ireland?
Under 25 m²: exempt from planning (Schedule 2, Class 3). Over 25 m²: full planning permission required. The garden room must be for domestic use, not as a separate dwelling.
What can I use a garden room for?
Home office, gym, playroom, art studio, teenager's retreat, granny flat (with restrictions). Cannot be used as a separate dwelling without change-of-use planning.
Sources
Planning and Development Regulations 2001, Schedule 2, Class 3. https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/
Frequently asked questions
How much does a garden room cost in Ireland?
€8,000–€25,000 installed (10–25 m²). Under 25 m² is exempt from planning. Most common use: home office. Cheaper than an extension and faster to install.
Do I need planning permission for a garden room in Ireland?
Under 25 m²: exempt from planning (Schedule 2, Class 3). Over 25 m²: full planning permission required. The garden room must be for domestic use, not as a separate dwelling.
What can I use a garden room for?
Home office, gym, playroom, art studio, teenager's retreat, granny flat (with restrictions). Cannot be used as a separate dwelling without change-of-use planning.