Making the Most of Summer: Patios, Drives, Orangeries, and Outbuildings

Gary Newell • 1 August 2024

Summer is upon us and you may be yearning to extend your living space outdoors.

At Jigsaw Construction Surrey, we can transform your dreams into reality and help you create the perfect summertime haven. Whatever your needs, we can create a space that perfectly complements your lifestyle and home. 


Here are some of the ways we can help:


Patios - The Perfect Platform for Outdoor Living


Patios are a fundamental element of summer entertaining. Whether it's a cosy space for morning coffee or a grand area for barbecues with friends, a well-designed patio sets the stage. 


We offer a variety of patio options to suit your needs and budget. From classic flagstone to contemporary poured concrete, there's a perfect choice for every style. Consider incorporating low-maintenance composite decking for a touch of luxury.


Drainage is crucial to prevent water pooling. We can advise and discuss ways to prevent pooling on your patio as part of the design process.


Don't forget the finishing touches! Built-in seating with storage creates a cohesive look and adds functionality.  Shade sails or pergolas provide welcome relief from the sun, while strategically placed lighting extends the usability of the patio into the evenings.


Planning Permission

In most cases, patios fall under permitted development regulations, meaning you likely won't need planning permission. However, restrictions may apply depending on the size, materials used, and location on the property. It's always best to check with your local planning authority for specific regulations. We provide project management services at Jigsaw Construction Surrey which includes identifying when planning permission is required.


Driveways - A Grand Entrance, Not Just a Parking Spot


A well-maintained driveway not only adds aesthetic appeal to a property but also creates a positive first impression. 


We help you to plan for functionality and style and incorporate permeable materials where possible to aid with drainage. We choose materials that can handle weight and weather for your individual requirements and location. 


For a touch of elegance, consider edging with cobblestones or brickwork and soften the look of a driveway with strategically placed planters or garden beds. This adds a touch of colour and complements the natural beauty of your home.


Planning Permission

Creating a new driveway or significantly altering an existing one might require planning permission, especially if it involves substantial changes to ground levels or affects access to the highway. We will discuss this with you when designing your driveway.



Outbuildings - Unleash Your Inner Gardener or Hobbyist


Outbuildings are a fantastic way for homeowners to expand their usable space. 


We always discuss our clients' needs when it comes to outbuildings, for example, will the outbuilding be a workshop, a home gym, or a potting shed? This will guide decisions on size, layout, and features. We design the space to perfectly suit its intended use. We use high-quality materials and can also incorporate design elements that complement the main house. Ventilation is important depending on the intended use and insulation is key for year-round use. We can discuss these elements in the design phase and advise you of what you need to get the best from your outbuilding. 


Planning Permission

This typically applies to larger outbuildings or those built close to property boundaries.  Smaller sheds or greenhouses may fall under permitted development rules with limitations on size and location. As part of the planning process, we discuss whether planning permission will be necessary or not and advise you accordingly. 


Orangeries and Glass Rooms - Bringing the Outdoors In


For those seeking a luxurious way to connect with the garden year-round, orangeries and glass rooms are a dream come true. These stunning structures bathe the interior in natural light, creating a sense of spaciousness and tranquillity. We will help you design the perfect space for your needs.


These structures require careful consideration of temperature control and ventilation to ensure plant health and comfortable human use. Imagine cosy winter evenings spent surrounded by greenery or basking in the warmth of the summer sun. Orangeries and glass rooms extend the enjoyment of the garden throughout the year. 


Planning Permission

Due to their permanent nature and potential size, obtaining planning permission for orangeries and glass rooms is usually necessary. We will advise you on this as part of the design process. 

 

Things to Consider for all Projects

 

  • Budget Wisely - Be realistic about your budget and factor in all costs, including materials, labour, permits, and potential future add-ons like lighting or furniture. 


  • Sunshine and Shade - Consider sun exposure throughout the day. Do you crave sunshine or require shade for comfortable use? 


  • Existing Features - Think about how the new structure will integrate with your existing house and garden.  Will it block sunlight from windows or disrupt drainage?


  • Access and Utility Lines - Ensure easy access to the space and avoid any buried utility lines during construction.


  • Planning for the Future - Consider if your needs might change. Designing with adaptability in mind allows you to easily adjust the space in the future. 


Turning Dreams into Reality


At Jigsaw Construction Surrey, we have the expertise to turn your summer living dreams into reality. By offering a variety of patio, driveway, outbuilding, orangery, and glass room options, we can cater to every taste and budget. Get in touch to learn more https://www.jcs-ltd.co.uk/#ContactUs







by Lisa Woolnough 2 February 2026
If January is about fresh starts, February is where smart plans turn into real action . Homeowners across Surrey use this quieter month to lock in builders, refine designs, and get ahead of the spring rush, and it’s one of the most strategic times to plan a home improvement project. At JCS Ltd , we see it every year: the clients who plan in February enjoy smoother builds, better timelines, and fewer budget surprises. Here’s why February is the sweet spot for planning your home extension, renovation, or garden project . Why February Is a Power Month for Home Improvement Planning 1. Builder availability is still strong By March, diaries start filling fast. In February, reputable builders still have availability to properly scope your project, offer realistic timelines, and secure preferred start dates. 2. Time for proper design and permissions Planning permission, structural drawings, and building regulations all take time. Starting now means approvals are in place well before summer, avoiding last-minute delays. 3. Smarter budgeting for the year ahead February planning allows you to: Spread costs sensibly Avoid rushed decisions Secure materials before seasonal price increases 4. Spring-ready, stress-free builds Projects planned now are ready to break ground as the weather improves, without panic or compromise. On-Trend Projects Homeowners Are Planning Right Now Home Extensions Extra living space remains top of the list, especially: Open-plan kitchen-diners Rear and side extensions Light-filled family spaces Garden Rooms & Outdoor Living Perfect for: Home offices Wellness spaces Summer entertaining areas Renovations & Layout Improvements February is ideal for rethinking: Kitchen layouts Bathroom upgrades Whole-home refurbishments Why Early Planning Saves You Money (and Stress) Rushed projects often lead to: Higher labour costs Limited material choices Delayed completions Early planning means: Accurate quotes Clear timelines Fewer variations mid-build In short: less stress, better results . How JCS Ltd Helps You Get Ahead We guide you through the entire process: Initial consultation Design and planning advice Transparent pricing Professional project management No jargon. No pressure. Just clear, honest guidance.  Ready to Plan Your 2025 Project? February is the month when the best projects are quietly planned, before everyone else catches on. 📞 Book your free consultation with JCS Ltd today 📍 Serving Surrey and surrounding areas 🌐 Visit www.jcs-ltd.co.uk Plan smart now. Build beautifully later.
by Lisa Woolnough 2 January 2026
Introduction A new year brings fresh ideas — especially for homeowners thinking about upgrading or extending their living space. As we step into 2026, many people across Surrey are re-evaluating how their homes look, feel, and function. At Jigsaw Construction Surrey Ltd , we’ve already seen clear patterns emerging in the types of projects homeowners are enquiring about. From smarter layouts to eco-friendly upgrades, 2026 is shaping up to be a year focused on comfort, practicality, and long-term value. Here are the top home renovation trends we expect to see this year — and how they can transform your home. 1. Open-Plan Kitchen & Living Spaces Open-plan layouts continue to dominate renovation plans, and 2026 is no different. Homeowners want brighter, more sociable spaces that bring families together and improve daily living. Why it’s trending: Better natural light More space for entertaining A modern, spacious feel Great for property value For older Surrey homes with smaller rooms, removing walls or reconfiguring layouts can completely transform the way the home feels. 2. Energy-Efficient Upgrades With increasing focus on rising energy costs and sustainability, energy efficiency remains one of the biggest renovation priorities this year. Popular upgrades include: High-performance insulation A-rated windows and doors Underfloor heating Smart thermostats and TRVs Heat pumps and efficient boilers These improvements not only reduce bills—they make your home more comfortable year-round. For eco-conscious families, sustainability is no longer a bonus; it’s essential. 3. Garage Conversions and Loft Conversions Space is at a premium in Surrey, and homeowners are looking for ways to maximise what they already have. Conversions continue to be one of the most affordable and effective solutions. Why conversions are booming: No need for large extensions Faster completion times Great for home offices, bedrooms, gyms or playrooms Adds significant property value At Jigsaw Construction Surrey Ltd, garage conversions remain one of our most in-demand services heading into 2026. 4. Garden Rooms & Outdoor Office Spaces With flexible working now a long-term reality, many homeowners want functional, year-round garden rooms. Uses include: Home office Studio or workshop Guest room Gym Entertainment room These spaces offer a private, comfortable place to work or relax — without the cost of a full extension. 5. Sustainable & Natural Building Materials Homeowners are increasingly choosing environmentally conscious options in their renovations. Popular materials include: Sustainably sourced timber Natural stone Low-VOC paints Recycled or reclaimed materials These choices reduce environmental impact while giving homes a modern, stylish, and timeless finish. 6. Budget-Friendly Mini Renovations With many families keeping a closer eye on spending, smaller renovations are becoming more popular — offering big impact without breaking the bank. Examples include: Updating kitchens with new doors/worktops Modern bathroom refreshes New flooring Improved lighting Minor layout tweaks Internal redecoration for a fresh, modern feel These upgrades are perfect for improving comfort and adding value without committing to major works. Final Thoughts 2026 is all about smart, sustainable, and meaningful home improvements. Whether you want more space, better efficiency, or an entirely new layout, there’s never been a better time to plan your renovation. At Jigsaw Construction Surrey Ltd , we’re proud to help Surrey homeowners transform their properties with skilled craftsmanship, transparent service, and a friendly team you can rely on. 👉 Thinking of renovating in 2026? Contact Jigsaw Construction Surrey Ltd today for a free consultation and let’s bring your plans to life.
by Lisa Woolnough 29 November 2025
Discover 5 simple ways to make your Surrey home more energy-efficient this winter. From insulation to smart heating, Jigsaw Construction Surrey can help — contact us today!
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