Planning bespoke garden structures: sizes, colours and configurations

A made-to-measure garden structure starts with its purpose, location and usable circulation space, not a model number. This guide helps you coordinate size, form, colour, doors, ventilation, foundations, delivery and installation.

A bespoke garden structure should not be chosen simply because one version looks appealing in a photograph. The key question is whether a greenhouse, orangery, pergola or outdoor sauna will work properly at the intended site. Consider use, external dimensions, circulation space, site access, foundations and equipment together.

“Bespoke” does not automatically mean that any dimension or component arrangement can be made. Configurations often use a structural system with defined profiles, bays, roof forms and connection points. Good planning combines individual requirements with technically available options.

Start with the intended use

First define what will actually happen in the structure. A propagation greenhouse needs different routes and ventilation from an orangery with seating. A pergola over a dining area is sized differently from a narrow canopy beside the house. For a sauna, access, changing space, privacy and the necessary technical connections also matter.

For greenhouses, decide whether work will mainly take place in soil, raised beds or on growing benches. For leafy vegetables, consult the guide to growing lettuce in a greenhouse for typical use scenarios. Temperature management and air exchange are covered in the article on greenhouse temperature and humidity .

Write down the main purpose and two possible secondary uses. A greenhouse may later become a sheltered sitting area, while a pergola may accommodate an outdoor kitchen as well as a dining table. Such additions affect the area required and should be considered before ordering.

Choosing the right size

External area alone says little about practical usability. Posts, profiles, doors, roof slopes, planting areas and furniture determine how much space remains usable. Plan the size in four stages.

1. Measure the site, not just the lawn

Measure length and width at several points. Boundaries, walls and older buildings are not always exactly parallel. Record slopes, steps, drainage channels, inspection chambers, downpipes, roof overhangs, roots and underground services. Also check whether doors and windows on neighbouring buildings can open fully.

Light levels also form part of the survey. Observe the site at different times of day where possible. For a planned orangery, the guide to orangery sizes and design offers further guidance.

2. Draw a plan of the usable internal area

Draw the footprint to scale and add every fixed and movable item. In a greenhouse, include beds, tables, shelving and water containers. For a pergola, add the table, chairs, barbecue or outdoor kitchen. Allow not only for furniture dimensions, but also pulled-out chairs, open doors and working positions.

A main route should remain usable without constantly moving things. Dead ends and narrow corners make maintenance, cleaning and moving larger plants harder. Planning should therefore begin with how people move through the space, not with filling every possible area.

3. Allow for future use

Many garden structures outlast the original garden plan. Consider whether extra growing benches, larger pots, wider seating or technical equipment are likely later. A modest area reserve is often more useful than a configuration already full on its first day.

For saunas, consider more than the sauna room itself. The route from the house, a sheltered storage area and safe use in darkness or wet conditions are part of the overall concept. The Elma S outdoor sauna and Elma L outdoor sauna can provide a size comparison. The stated model information remains decisive.

4. Confirm model-specific dimensions

Do not transfer preferred measurements to a particular model without checking. Roof pitch, bay spacing, profiles, doors and extensions can limit available sizes. Ask for the external dimensions, relevant internal dimensions, door openings and roof overhangs to be confirmed for the exact configuration.

For pergolas, the pergola size guide can support your initial selection. For greenhouse structures, the overview of greenhouses and conservatories is a useful starting point. Order only on the basis of the final documented specification.

Freestanding, lean-to, T-shaped or pergola?

Structure type	Typical benefit	Key points to check
Freestanding	Flexible positioning and access on every side	Foundation, wind exposure, access routes and clearance from surroundings
Lean-to	Uses a house wall and keeps routes to the building short	Wall construction, connection height, roof drainage and windows
T-shaped	Separate functional zones and a striking focal point	More complex footprint, roof connections and internal circulation
Pergola	Open transition between house, terrace and garden	Sun exposure, rainwater routing, side enclosures and anchoring

A lean-to structure is not automatically the best option for a small plot. An unsuitable wall, low roof overhang or necessary passage may cancel out its advantage. The comparison of wall-mounted and freestanding pergolas shows the key planning differences.

For pergolas, distinguish between different roof concepts as well. The overview of bioclimatic and classic pergolas and the guide to when a bioclimatic pergola or glass roof suits your space help with an initial functional choice.

Configuration options to discuss

Make a list separating essential, desirable and optional features. This keeps planning technically clear and makes quotations easier to compare.

• Doors: number, opening direction, position and clear opening space.
• Ventilation: roof or side ventilation and how it can be operated.
• Glazing or panels: intended use, light effect, privacy and maintenance.
• Internal layout: routes, beds, shelving, seating areas and possible zones.
• Drainage: gutter and downpipe positions, plus drainage on the plot.
• Shading and sun protection: orientation, operation and access for maintenance.
• Pergola sides: open sides, privacy screening or weather-responsive enclosures.
• Sauna planning: door orientation, outdoor area, privacy and model-dependent equipment.

The choice of surface elements must suit the intended use. Information on polycarbonate, multiwall panels and insulation performance helps explain the terms. Available materials and combinations must still be confirmed for the specific model.

Choosing colour and surface effect

Colour affects whether the structure stands out as a garden feature or visually relates to the house. Compare colour samples at the intended site whenever possible. Facade colour, window frames, roof finish, paving and planting all change the impression.

Dark shades can make profiles more pronounced, while lighter colours interact differently with reflective surfaces and their surroundings. These are design rather than technical considerations. What matters is the finish and colour selection actually offered. Screen images and project photographs are not colour-accurate because of lighting, camera settings and displays.

Those interested in traditional forms can find design ideas in the article about Victorian greenhouses . An inspirational image should never replace the written colour specification and configuration.

Comparing aluminium structures and timber garden sheds

Start the comparison with purpose. An aluminium greenhouse is designed for light transmission and plant growing. An enclosed garden shed may instead suit storage, a workshop or a more enclosed leisure space.

Timber and aluminium differ in appearance, construction and upkeep. Timber is a natural material whose surface needs regular inspection and, depending on the design, treatment. Aluminium profiles need no timber preservative, but joints, seals, drainage routes and surfaces must still be kept clean. The better system depends on use, desired transparency, site and willingness to maintain it.

Information to include in a quotation request

• preferred structure type and main use;
• site sketch with measured lengths, heights and obstacles;
• photographs from several directions;
• details of slope, ground conditions and existing foundations;
• preferred door, ventilation and drainage positions;
• colour and material preferences;
• delivery address and details of narrow access or steps;
• planned installation route and available working area;
• open questions about local requirements.

General procedures are described under How to order . For questions about an individual configuration, visit Contact . A structured enquiry reduces follow-up questions but does not replace technical assessment.

Checking the final configuration

Do not assess a quotation only by its total price or model name. Compare every item with your requirements list. Dimensions should clearly state whether they are external, internal, base or opening dimensions. Check the number and position of doors, windows, ventilation elements, drainage and accessories.

Also read the information on purchasing and delivery and the applicable guarantee information. Where two quotations seem similar, compare the items in a table. Small differences in form or equipment can matter greatly in day-to-day use.

Planning the site, delivery and installation

Before foundation or installation work, establish whether planning permission, setbacks or other local requirements apply. In Malta, the Planning Authority classification should be checked with a perit for each proposal, taking account of the footprint, height, enclosure, land designation and any existing permit conditions. Planning permission for a greenhouse or pergola offers initial guidance; ask a perit to assess the proposal and obtain any required site-specific confirmation from the competent authority.

Delivery access checklist

• Can the access route accommodate the intended delivery method?
• Do gates, bends, branches, cables or parked vehicles create obstacles?
• Can goods be moved safely from the unloading point to the installation site?
• Is there a level, dry and protected temporary storage area?
• Can long or delicate components be handled along the entire route?
• Have steps, narrow paths and soft ground been reported in advance?

Check these points against the actual delivery, not against an earlier garden-furniture delivery. Component sizes and packaging can differ substantially.

Typical installation sequence

1. Approve the plan: confirm the design, dimensions and accessories in full.
2. Prepare the site: remove obstacles and establish levels and square reference lines.
3. Build the foundation: work only to the requirements of the confirmed structure. For pergolas, the pergola foundation guide is useful preparation.
4. Check delivery: record packaging, item allocation and visible discrepancies.
5. Assemble the load-bearing structure: follow the sequence and alignment in the relevant documentation.
6. Fit surface elements and accessories: coordinate doors, glazing, ventilation and drainage.
7. Carry out a final check: test opening functions, fixings, water routes and cleanliness.

The foundation and structure must be planned as one system. A foundation built too early can cause problems if confirmed external dimensions, post positions or heights differ from the initial assumption.

Care after installation

Inspect the structure regularly and after unusual weather events. Keep gutters, outlets and ventilation openings clear. Remove dirt with suitable material-compatible products and check that moving parts operate without difficulty.

The guide to caring for an aluminium greenhouse contains further advice. The care and maintenance instructions for the exact specification remain decisive. General product information and more planning topics appear under Useful information .

Frequently asked questions

Does “bespoke” mean that any size is possible?

No. Structural bay spacing, profile distances, roof geometry, doors and structural requirements set limits. “Bespoke” means an adaptable configuration within technically available options. Achievable dimensions must be confirmed for the model.

Should I choose the model first or measure the site?

Document the site and intended use first. A suitable model family can then be selected. Finally, check again that the specific model dimensions, doors and roof overhangs fit the measured area.

How much extra space should remain around the structure?

There is no universal figure. Allow space for installation, cleaning, drainage, door movement and access to adjoining components. Local setback requirements may also apply. Set edge clearances for the site and model.

Can the greenhouse colour match the house?

A coordinated appearance is often possible if the preferred colour is offered for the model. Compare a real sample with the facade and window frames. Photographs and screen colours are not colour-accurate.

Can doors and ventilation openings be positioned differently?

That depends on the structural grid and selected specification. Mark preferred positions on a sketch and have feasibility confirmed. Consider opening space, circulation, wind direction and access for operation.

Is a lean-to structure always better for a small garden?

No. Wall condition, windows, roof overhang, drainage and access can argue against it. A compact freestanding solution may work better when it is easier to reach and maintain from all sides.

Which is better for guests: an orangery or pergola?

An orangery provides a more enclosed, light-filled space. A pergola creates an open transition to the garden. The right choice depends on the desired level of weather protection, ventilation, openness and seasonal use.

Can an inspiring project photograph serve as a specification?

No. A photograph shows neither binding dimensions nor every component, colour or structural detail. Use images to coordinate the design, but order only from a written, confirmed configuration.

When should I commission the foundation?

Only after the design, dimensions, heights and fixing points are confirmed. The site can be investigated and prepared beforehand, but the final foundation should follow the approved plan.

What should I do when two quotations look almost identical?

Compare external dimensions, internal space, doors, ventilation, materials, accessories, foundation requirements, delivery scope and installation responsibilities item by item. Existing greenhouse reviews can help with the decision, but do not replace technical checking.

Can the configuration be changed after ordering?

Options for changes depend on the processing stage and the specific order. Changes may have technical, scheduling or financial consequences. Report a requested change immediately and assume it is accepted only once confirmed in writing.

Final decision checklist

• The main use and possible future use are defined.
• The site has been measured and photographed at several points.
• Internal routes, doors, furniture, beds and working areas are drawn in.
• Structure type, size, colour and equipment are confirmed for the model.
• Drainage, foundation and delivery access are planned.
• Local requirements have been checked with the competent authority.
• The quotation and drawings have been checked item by item.
• Installation sequence, responsibilities and maintenance access are clear.

A sound decision comes from documented requirements, not isolated features. Compare the whole configuration and check that site, structure and planned daily use work together. Other product areas such as garden saunas and models such as the HC150 barrel sauna can be assessed using the same method: first use and site, then model and equipment.