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Creating Your Ideal Garden Room

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Creating Your Ideal Garden Room

Creating Your Ideal Garden Room: An Interview with Jon Mathew of Hawksbeck Annexes and Garden Rooms

As more people work from home, the idea of an outdoor workspace or relaxation area has gained traction. Adding a garden room or annexe can be a game-changer for those looking to expand their living space, boost property value, and find a personal retreat just steps from their back door. Recently on The Mortgage Mum Podcast, Sarah Tucker sat down with Jon Mathew, Founder of Hawksbeck Annexes and Garden Rooms, to explore the journey of building a successful garden room business and the lifestyle benefits these spaces provide.

From Finance to Construction: Jon’s Path to Founding Hawksbeck Annexes

Jon didn’t begin his career in construction; he spent over a decade in finance before seeking something more hands-on and meaningful. When a friend asked him to build a rentable annexe, Jon realised the potential of well-designed garden spaces. It started with a favour, building a custom annexe for a friend in Wimbledon. However, with each completed project, word spread, and Jon found himself managing a growing business. “That first project opened up a whole new path. Every neighbour wanted a card; I realised the demand for quality garden rooms was real and growing,” Jon shared.

Building a Brand with Purpose

Initially, Hawksbeck Garden Rooms wasn’t built around a formal brand. Jon realised early on that he needed not only a website but a brand that reflected his ethos. With the help of a friend, he established a brand that prioritised quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction. “Transparency is key,” he said. “I wanted clients to know exactly what they were paying for, down to every plug socket and light bulb. My background in finance helped me create detailed quotes that clients could trust.” This transparent approach quickly set Hawksbeck Annexes apart, making them a trusted choice for clients wanting high-quality, personalised garden rooms.

How COVID-19 Boosted Demand for Garden Rooms

While Jon’s business grew organically, the COVID-19 pandemic created a surge in demand for garden rooms as more people started working from home. Suddenly, having a dedicated home office was more than just a luxury—it was a necessity. But instead of rushing to meet demand at the cost of quality, Jon chose to focus on sustainable growth. “We chose to keep our growth steady to maintain quality and customer service, even if that meant taking on fewer projects,” Jon explained. This strategy has led to a reputation for excellence, with most of Hawksbeck’s new clients coming through referrals.

The Impact of Garden Rooms: More Than Just Extra Space

Adding a garden room isn’t only about increasing property value. Many of Jon’s clients seek out these rooms for their potential to enhance well-being. Whether it’s an office, a gym, or a personal retreat, a garden room offers a dedicated space away from the house where people can relax, focus, and recharge. Sarah herself experienced the benefits when she decided to install a garden room instead of converting a nursery space. “I wasn’t a fan of my garden until I got my garden room,” she noted. The addition transformed her relationship with her outdoor space and gave her a dedicated area to work and unwind.

Lessons in Business and Mindset

Jon credits much of his success to the lessons he learned from transitioning careers and building a team. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: embrace the unknown, take on challenges, and focus on continual growth. “The biggest reward comes from solving problems and delivering a product that makes clients happy,” he said. “Every year, we take on bigger projects, and each time, the team grows stronger and more confident.” Jon also emphasised the importance of building a team you trust and allowing them the freedom to excel in their roles. By surrounding himself with professionals who share his commitment to quality, he has been able to scale his business while maintaining his standards.

Is a Garden Room Right for You?

Whether you’re looking to increase your home’s value, expand your usable space, or create a personal retreat, a garden room could be the ideal solution. With quality craftsmanship and personalised design, Hawksbeck Garden Rooms has helped countless clients realise their vision of a perfect outdoor space.

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We will work at times that suit you and your family, carrying out appointments via video call, telephone or email, giving you the benefit of first class service, around your own schedule, and in the comfort of your own home. So let us handle your mortgage today and find out how well we can look after you, The Mortgage Mum way!

Choosing a High-Quality Garden Room or Annexe: What to Know and Why It Matters

For those exploring the addition of a garden room or annexe to their property, choosing the right builder is essential to ensure both quality and value. Quality garden rooms and annexes, especially when built to rigorous standards, can increase property value significantly, adding an attractive return on investment in terms of both usable space and financial value.

  1. Quality Checks and Certifications
  • Building Regulations: It’s essential for annexes to be built to full building regulations if someone is living in them. This standard ensures that the structure is safe, durable, and livable. Reputable builders should openly discuss planning permissions, building regulations, and provide necessary certification.
  • Materials and Accreditations: Ask for information about materials, certifications, and warranties. Look for trusted materials, like Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPs) that are BBA accredited, indicating high industry standards.
  • Warranty: Reputable builders offer insurance-backed warranties that cover deposits and the building structure. Ask about these warranties and, if possible, look beyond a company’s website to research client testimonials or view similar builds in person.
  1. Red Flags to Watch Out For
  • Inconsistent Pricing: When quotes from different companies vary significantly, investigate the differences in materials, standards, and warranty inclusions.
  • Transparency: A high-quality builder will typically offer clear details about building standards and may provide a building regulation certificate even when it’s not a legal requirement. If a builder is reluctant to answer questions or provide a viewing of past projects, consider it a red flag.
  1. Added Value for Your Property and Lifestyle
  • Increased Property Value: When properly built and documented, garden rooms or annexes can increase your property value by 5-10%. Structures built to national standards, with certificates of lawful development, are valued similarly to home extensions in terms of square footage.
  • Flexibility and Use: Whether you’re looking for an extra office, a family space, or an annexe for parents or teens, garden rooms offer unmatched versatility. In times of high living costs, they can serve as rental spaces, adding a potential revenue stream.
  1. Long-Term Benefits for Peace of Mind
  • Conveyancing and Sale: As part of any future property sale, solicitors will check for necessary planning permissions, certifications, and warranties. Choosing a builder that prioritises quality and provides comprehensive documentation ensures a seamless process down the line.
  • Lifestyle Enhancement: Beyond resale value, a well-designed garden room can be a personal retreat, a work-from-home hub, or a family space, enhancing daily life. For families with teenagers or retirees seeking a quiet spot, it’s a valuable investment in quality of life.

Adding a quality-built garden room or annexe can truly be a “no-brainer” when done right, offering both personal enjoyment and financial benefits. With thoughtful planning and a quality-focused builder, your project can be an enriching and sound investment.

We hope this article has left you inspired and informed, whether you’re considering a garden room, an annexe, or just curious about unique ways to add value to your property. Jon’s insights into custom-built garden rooms at Hawksbeck offer some amazing takeaways, from the benefits of factory-built structures to overcoming site challenges in urban settings. He’s shown how a well-designed, expertly constructed space can truly enhance a home while standing up to everyday wear.

To learn more about garden rooms and how they can benefit your lifestyle, listen to the full interview with Jon Mathew on The Mortgage Mum Podcast, and visit Hawksbeck Annexes and Garden Rooms for inspiration on creating your ideal garden escape.