Garden Rooms vs Extensions: Which Is Better for Fareham Properties?
Homeowners across Fareham, Portchester, Titchfield, Locks Heath, Park Gate and Warsash are increasingly looking for ways to add extra space without the cost and disruption of moving. Two of the most popular options are garden rooms and home extensions — but which one is right for your property?
Both options offer excellent benefits, but the best choice depends on your budget, how you plan to use the space, and the layout of your home. This guide compares garden rooms vs extensions in Fareham, helping you decide which solution works best for your needs in 2025.
What Is a Garden Room?
A garden room is a standalone structure built in your garden, fully insulated and designed for year-round use. Unlike traditional sheds, modern garden rooms are built to high standards and often include electrics, heating and high-quality glazing.
Common uses for garden rooms include:
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- Home offices
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- Gyms or fitness studios
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- Hobby rooms
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- Guest accommodation
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- Teenagers’ rooms or chill-out spaces
Garden rooms are particularly popular in Fareham areas with larger gardens, such as Locks Heath and Warsash, where space allows for flexible designs.
What Is a Home Extension?
A home extension adds new internal space directly connected to your property. Extensions are ideal for expanding kitchens, creating open-plan living areas, or adding bedrooms and bathrooms.
Popular extension types in Fareham include:
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- Rear single-storey extensions
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- Side extensions
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- Wrap-around extensions
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- Double-storey extensions
Extensions are common in Portchester and Titchfield, where homeowners often modernise older layouts.
Cost Comparison: Garden Rooms vs Extensions in Fareham
Garden Room Costs
£12,000 – £30,000+
Costs depend on:
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- Size
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- Level of insulation
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- Electrical installation
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- Heating and glazing
Garden rooms are usually the more affordable option and involve fewer structural works.
Home Extension Costs
£30,000 – £80,000+
Extension costs vary based on:
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- Size and design
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- Foundations and structural steel
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- Plumbing and electrics
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- Finishing choices
While more expensive, extensions typically add greater long-term value to the property.
Planning Permission in Fareham
Garden Rooms
Most garden rooms fall under Permitted Development, meaning planning permission is often not required if:
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- The height limits are respected
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- The building is not used as a separate dwelling
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- It does not cover more than 50% of the garden
Properties in conservation areas may face additional restrictions.
Home Extensions
Extensions may require planning permission if:
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- They exceed Permitted Development limits
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- They are double-storey
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- The property is listed or in a conservation area
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- The design significantly alters the external appearance
A local Fareham builder can help assess planning requirements early in the process.
Timescales: Which Is Faster to Build?
Garden Rooms
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- Typically completed in 2–4 weeks
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- Minimal disruption to the main house
Home Extensions
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- Usually take 8–20+ weeks, depending on size and complexity
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- More disruption during construction
If speed and minimal disruption are priorities, a garden room is often the better option.
Which Option Adds More Value to Fareham Homes?
Garden Rooms
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- Adds lifestyle value
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- Appeals to buyers needing home office space
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- Less impact on overall property footprint
Home Extensions
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- Adds permanent internal living space
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- Can significantly increase resale value
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- Ideal for growing families
For homeowners planning to stay long-term, both options can be excellent investments.
Which Is Right for Your Fareham Property?
Choose a Garden Room if you want:
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- A lower-cost solution
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- Fast installation
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- A separate, flexible space
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- Minimal disruption
Choose an Extension if you need:
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- Integrated living space
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- Larger kitchens or family rooms
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- Additional bedrooms or bathrooms
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- A major layout transformation
Both solutions are popular across Fareham — the best choice depends on how you plan to use the space.
Final Thoughts
Garden rooms and home extensions both offer excellent ways to add space and value to Fareham properties. Garden rooms are quick, flexible and budget-friendly, while extensions provide permanent, integrated living areas that transform the home.
Speaking with an experienced local builder ensures your project is designed correctly, meets regulations, and delivers long-term value.