24 March 2023 , 08:30
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Millions of homeowners intend to embrace the "great outdoors" this year by creating a garden space which caters for both work - and play.
A study, of 2,597 adults on the property ladder, found despite many returning to offices, 16% still intend to turn an existing shed or outbuilding into a home study.
While 16% have plans to install a new garden room to use at their leisure, whatever the weather and 14% want to put up a conservatory - to bring the outside in.
Other external improvements on the list for the near future include giving the garden a complete revamp (28%) and repainting the shed or fencing (25%).
Many are thinking of giving the garden a revamp (Getty Images)Mike Fairman, CEO at Checkatrade, which commissioned the research as part of its wider annual Home Pride Index report, said: “Whether your garden needs a little TLC or a complete makeover, investing in your outdoor spaces can really help elevate the appeal and value of a home and one you can be proud of too.
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“When planning your garden revamp, make sure you use a reputable and checked professional to help bring those ideas to life.’’
The study also found homeowners spent £830 on their garden alone in the past year - an annual increase of £106.
On top of this, 14% plan to get a hot tub in the near future and 18% hope to build a shed.
14% want to bring the outside in with the use of a conservatory (Getty Images)Other external improvements on homeowner’s to-do lists include replacing fences (21%), fixing the roof (17%) and installing solar panels (17%).
And over the next year, 13% plan to make some sort of landscaping-related renovations to their property.
More than a third (37%) of those want to do so in order to give their home a refresh and 30% hope to add value.
But 37% of those polled, via OnePoll, admitted they’d rather invest in a professionally trained tradesperson than attempt to carry out DIY jobs themselves.
Another change to the outdoors in 2023 for 22% will be installing electric vehicle charging.