Enhancing an Existing Garden Building for Greater Comfort and Privacy

Not every outdoor living project starts with a brand-new pergola. This Herefordshire installation demonstrates how an existing timber garden room can be upgraded with a motorised retractable screen, creating a more comfortable and versatile outdoor space without altering the original structure.

By carefully integrating the screen into the existing timber-clad building, the client has gained additional protection from the sun, wind and insects while preserving the clean architectural appearance of the garden room.

Project Specifications

  • Location: Herefordshire
  • Structure: Existing timber garden room

Features:

  • Motorised retractable screen
  • Seamlessly retrofitted to the existing building
  • Contemporary anthracite cassette and guides
  • Protection from wind and low sun
  • Increased privacy
  • Insect protection while maintaining ventilation

Service Provided:

  • Survey  
  • Design 
  • Supply
  • Installation

How We Met the Brief

The client already had a beautifully constructed timber garden room that opened directly onto the garden. While the building provided excellent shelter, the large open elevation left the space exposed during windy conditions, strong afternoon sunshine and evenings when insects became a nuisance.

Rather than recommending a replacement structure, we proposed a single motorised retractable screen that could be discreetly integrated into the existing opening.

The screen housing and side guides were colour matched to complement the building, creating a clean, almost invisible installation when retracted. At the touch of a button, the screen lowers to provide a comfortable outdoor environment while still allowing natural airflow and views into the garden.

The Result

This simple retrofit has transformed how the client uses their outdoor room. With the flexibility to open or enclose the space in seconds, the garden room is now more comfortable throughout the day and into the evening.

It’s a great example of how existing outdoor structures can often be enhanced rather than replaced. A carefully designed retractable screen can dramatically improve comfort, privacy and usability while preserving the investment already made in the original building.

Why Choose Rase Outdoor Living?

At Rase Outdoor Living, we specialise in complete outdoor transformations — from initial groundwork to bespoke pergola design and installation. We create spaces that are both beautiful and built to last.