Back-Garden Offices vs Renting: The Cost-Benefit of a Garden Office for Remote Workers in Ireland

Cost-Benefit of Garden Offices – You spend €800 monthly on rented office space, which you visit only three times per week. The co-working space costs €250 for a desk that remains unavailable during your working hours. Your spare bedroom functions as a storage space, while working from the kitchen table has destroyed your ability to be productive. Sound familiar?

Remote work is permanent in Ireland — 42% of Irish employees now work from home at least part-time, contributing to an increase in property in Ireland. CSO’s 2024 Labour Force Survey. People remain in the “office rental treadmill” because they select temporary solutions which decrease their financial resources while failing to increase property value.

The assessment of your current workspace needs becomes most suitable during September. Your home becomes available again when children return to school so you must decide whether to use your office rental funds for a permanent garden workspace that adds value to your property.

The financial analysis reveals why numerous Irish remote workers choose garden office solutions which become self-sustaining investments.

Cost-Benefit of Garden Offices – Why Remote Workers Are Ditching Rented Office Space

The Commute Nobody Wants Anymore

The average Dublin commute takes 35 minutes each way. The annual commute to a rented office space requires more than 145 hours of travel time, which could be dedicated to work, physical activity or family time. The total monthly expenses include fuel costs between €150–€200 and tolls between €50–€100, and parking fees that range from €100–€200 in Dublin, which results in significant financial loss before starting work.

People proved during the pandemic that they can maintain productivity outside of their traditional office commute. So why are so many of us still doing it?

Rent That Never Stops Rising

Office rental rates in Ireland have surged 18% since 2022, according to Daft.ie’s Commercial Report. A small office in Dublin suburbs now costs €800–€1,000 per month. In the city centre?€1,200–€1,800. And what do you get for that money? Absolutely nothing permanent. No equity, no asset, no return on investment. The money loses all value because it serves no useful purpose.

Flexibility Mismatch

Most office leases require 12-month commitments, but hybrid workers only need the space 2–3 days per week. The ability to book a desk at co-working spaces is flexible but it becomes challenging during peak hours when numerous people seek the same time slot. It becomes challenging to handle client phone calls because someone nearby continues to eat their lunch just a short distance from you.

The Home Office Compromise

Most office leases require 12-month commitments, but hybrid workers only need the space 2–3 days per week. The flexibility of co-working spaces comes with the challenge of securing a desk during busy times when multiple people seek the same time slot. The proximity of someone eating their lunch near your work area makes it difficult to handle client phone calls.

There has to be a better way. And there is.

The True Cost of Renting Office Space in Ireland (2025)

Let’s talk real numbers. What does renting actually cost you in 2025?

Monthly Office Rental Rates by Region

Location	Small Office (15–20m²)	Co-Working Desk
Dublin City Centre	€1,200–€1,800/month	€300–€400/month
Dublin Suburbs (Bray, Kinsealy)	€800–€1,000/month	€200–€250/month
Cork City	€700–€900/month	€180–€220/month
Galway/Limerick	€600–€800/month	€150–€200/month
Regional Towns	€500–€700/month	€120–€180/month

Prices based on Daft.ie Commercial and typical co-working rates for 2025

But the sticker price is only part of the story.

Hidden Costs of Renting

When you rent office space, the meter never stops running:

• Deposit: 1–2 months’ rent upfront (€1,600–€3,600 locked up), which is a cost-effective option for homeowners.
• Utilities: €80–€150/month for electric, heating, and internet
• Parking: €100–€200/month in Dublin (if not included)
• Insurance: €30–€50/month for contents and liability
• Commute costs: €150–€300/month for fuel, tolls, or public transport

Total real monthly cost: €1,160–€2,500, depending on your location.

The 5-Year Rental Cost Trap

Here’s the frightening part. A Dublin office renter spending €1,200/month will pay €72,000 over five years. Add commute costs and you’re well over €90,000. At the end of those five years, you own… nothing. Zero equity. Zero asset. Just a stack of receipts and a lighter bank account.

Now compare that to a one-time investment in a garden office.

Garden Office Costs: What You’ll Actually Pay

Let’s be completely transparent about pricing. Here’s what a quality Loghouse garden office actually costs in 2025.

Loghouse Garden Office Pricing

Model	Size	Insulation	Price	Best For
Compact Office	3m × 3m (9m²)	Standard (50mm)	€8,500–€10,500	Solo workers, occasional use
Professional Office	4m × 4m (16m²)	Premium (70mm)	€13,500–€16,500	Full-time remote work
Executive Office	5m × 4m (20m²)	Premium + triple glazing	€18,500–€22,000	Meeting space, dual desks
Luxury Studio with energy efficiency features.	6m × 4m (24m²)	Ultra (100mm)	€24,000–€28,000	Creative studios, client meetings

What’s included:

• CE-marked structure compliant with Irish Building Regulations
• Double-glazed windows (triple-glazed in premium models)
• Solid timber construction (44mm–70mm walls)
• Roof and floor insulation (BER A-rated potential)
• Delivery within Ireland

Additional One-Time Costs

To get your garden office fully operational, budget for:

• Foundation/base: €800–€2,500 (depends on ground conditions)
• Electrical installation: €600–€1,200 (qualified electrician required)
• Interior fit-out: €500–€1,500 (desk, shelving, heating)

Total investment: €10,400–€32,200 (one-time payment)

Ongoing Costs (Minimal)

Unlike renting, your running costs are tiny:

• Heating: €20–€40/month (winter only, with infrared panel)
• Internet: Already paying for home broadband (€0 extra)
• Maintenance: €100–€200/year for timber treatment
• Insurance: Typically covered under your home policy (€0 extra – always clarify with your Insurance provider regarding garden room costs).

Annual running cost: €340–€680 versus €13,920–€30,000 for renting.

Key Insight: A €15,000 Loghouse garden office costs less than 19 months of Dublin office rent — but lasts 25+ years.

Our Our insulated garden rooms are designed to maximize space in your garden while enhancing your property’s value. are engineered for Irish weather conditions, meaning lower heating bills and year-round comfort.

Head-to-Head: Garden Office vs Renting vs Co-Working

Let’s put all three options side by side and see which one makes financial sense.

Factor	Rented Office	Co-Working Space	Loghouse Garden Office
Upfront Cost	€1,600–€3,600 (deposit)	€0–€500	€10,400–€32,200 (one-time)
Monthly Cost (Year 1)	€1,160–€2,500	€150–€400	€28–€57 (running costs only)
5-Year Total Cost	€72,000–€150,000	€9,000–€24,000	€11,000–€35,000 (incl. install)
Commute Time	30–60 min each way	15–30 min each way	30 seconds (walk across the garden)
Commute Cost	€150–€300/month	€50–€150/month	€0
Tax Deductible?	❌ No	⚠️ Partial	✅ Yes (€3.20/day relief)
Builds Equity?	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes (adds property value)
Privacy	✅ High	❌ Low (shared space)	✅ Complete
Customisation	❌ Landlord restrictions	❌ None allowed	✅ Total control
Flexibility	❌ 12-month lease	✅ Monthly rolling	✅ Own it forever
Work-Life Boundary	✅ Physical separation	⚠️ Moderate	✅ Perfect separation
Resale Value	N/A	N/A	✅ Adds 5–10% to property value
Meeting Space	✅ Dedicated	⚠️ Book in advance	✅ Private, always available

The verdict? For long-term value, garden offices win by a landslide. Co-working works if you need occasional city centre access. But renting? There’s simply no financial logic to it anymore.

“After 3 years, a Dublin office renter has spent €43,200 with nothing to show. A Loghouse owner has spent €15,600 — and owns an asset worth €000’s.”

Cost-Benefit of Garden Offices – ROI Calculator: When Does a Garden Office Pay for Itself?

Let’s answer the most important question: when do you break even?

The Break-Even Formula

Step 1: Calculate your current annual office costs (rent + commute + utilities)
Step 2: Calculate your garden office total investment (cabin + installation)
Step 3: Divide investment by annual costs = break-even timeline, considering average costs of similar properties.
Step 4: Add tax relief savings (€3.20/day × working days)
Step 5: Factor in property value increase (typically 5–8%) when considering garden room costs.

Example Calculation

Current situation:

• Renting office in Dublin suburbs: €900/month
• Commute costs: €200/month
• Total annual cost: €13,200

Loghouse investment:

• 4m × 4m Professional Office: €15,000 (installed with electrics)

Break-even calculation:

• €15,000 ÷ €13,200 = 1.14 years (14 months)

After 5 years:

• Rent saved: €54,000
• Commute saved: €12,000
• Tax relief: €4,000
• Property value increase: €15,000+
• Total benefit: €85,000, which adds significant value to your home. (minus €15,000 investment = a cost-effective choice that adds value to your home) €70,000 net gain)

The average Loghouse customer breaks even in 18–30 months. After that? Pure savings while you build equity in your home.

Tax Relief & Financial Benefits for Home Garden Offices

Irish remote workers qualify for several financial benefits that make garden offices even more attractive.

Remote Working Tax Relief (2025 Update)

If you work from home three or more days per week, you can claim €3.20 per day in tax relief — that’s up to €800 per year for 250 working days. Your garden office qualifies as a “home office” under Revenue guidelines since the entire structure is your workspace.

How to claim:

1. Keep records of your working days (an employer letter helps)
2. Complete Form 12 during self-assessment, or update via Revenue myAccount if you’re a PAYE worker
3. No receipts needed for the standard €3.20/day rate

Learn more at Revenue.ie.

BER (Building Energy Rating) Savings

Loghouse garden offices can achieve A2/A3 BER ratings with proper insulation and glazing. That translates to heating costs of just €20–€40 per month, compared to €80–€150 in a commercial office.

Annual saving: €720–€1,320 on energy bills.

When you factor in our energy-efficient construction methods, the savings compound year after year.

Property Value Increase

A well-built garden office adds 5–10% to your home value, according to Irish estate agent surveys. The added equity for a €300,000 home would range between €15,000 and €30,000. Buyers love turnkey work-from-home solutions. The inclusion of “garden office” in Daft listings during 2025 leads to higher property viewings and faster home sales.

Tax Savings Summary: Between tax relief and energy savings, a Loghouse owner saves €1,520–€2,120 per year — that’s like getting a €127–€177 monthly rent discount, forever.

⚠️ Tax rules vary by individual circumstances. The information above is general guidance — always consult a tax advisor or check Revenue.ie for your specific situation. ⚠️

The Hidden Value: Productivity, Wellbeing & Property Equity

The financial case is clear. But there are benefits you can’t quantify on a spreadsheet — though you’ll feel the high-quality improvements every single day.

Productivity Gains You Can’t Quantify (But You’ll Feel)

Studies show a 37% productivity increase when working from a dedicated space versus the kitchen table. No interruptions from housemates. No fighting for table space during breakfast. No background noise from the television.

And consider this: eliminating your commute reclaims 290+ hours per year. You will receive seven complete work weeks that you can use for work activities or family time or personal life.

A soundproofed, purpose-built workspace provides the mental clarity which enables you to perform at your highest level.

The Wellbeing Premium

Natural light matters. Large windows and optional skylights in Loghouse cabins bring in daylight and garden views, which research shows reduces stress and improves focus. Compare that to fluorescent office lighting and recycled air conditioning.

You control everything — the temperature, the music, the décor. Your workspace reflects who you are, not a landlord’s budget furniture choices.

Property Equity: The Asset That Keeps Giving

Renting builds zero equity. Spend €72,000 over five years and you have €0 in assets. But a garden office is a transferable value when you sell your home.

Homebuyers in 2025 actively seek houses that come with garden office spaces. Properties with built-in home offices attract more potential buyers who tend to make their purchasing decisions more quickly, according to estate agents.

Future-Proofing Your Home

Garden offices are incredibly versatile. Today it’s an office. Tomorrow it’s an art studio, home gym, teen hangout, or guest room. If your parents need support later, it could become a granny flat (subject to planning permission).

You’re not just building an office — you’re adding flexible living space that adapts to your life.

Cost-Benefit of Garden Offices – Example Case Study from a Dublin Remote Worker

Sarah, a 34-year-old marketing consultant from Bray, Co. Wicklow.

Sarah’s Old Situation

Sarah was renting a small office in Dublin 2 for €950 per month. Her commute took 45 minutes each way, costing €220 per month in tolls and parking. Total annual cost: €14,040.

In September 2023, her landlord increased the rent to €1,050. That was her breaking point.

“I was spending over €15,000 a year on an office I used three days a week. That’s when I visited the Loghouse showroom in Bray.”

Her Investment

Sarah chose a Loghouse Kilkenny Log Cabin 4m × 3m:

• Kilkenny Log Cabin 4m × 3m: €7,330
• Foundation and base preparation: €1,200
• Electrical installation: €800
• Interior fit-out (desk, shelving, heater): €900
• Total investment: €10,230

Her ROI (Two Years Later — September 2025)

Sarah brakes even in just 8 months.

The Long-Term Picture

After five years in her Kilkenny garden office, Sarah will have:

• Saved €76,200 in rent costs
• Saved €13,200 in commute costs
• Claimed €4,000 in tax relief
• Added €15,000+ in property value
• Total 5-year benefit: €108,400 (minus €10,230 investment = €98,170 net gain)

Although fictitious, Sarah’s experience mirrors the reality for many in the Irish workforce — it’s becoming “the norm” for Loghouse customers who make the switch from renting to owning.

What to Consider Before Investing in a Garden Office

Let’s address the concerns you might have.

Do You Need Planning Permission?

Most garden offices are planning-exempt in Ireland if they meet these criteria:

• Floor area under 25m²
• Height under 4 metres
• At least 1 metre from property boundaries
• Complies with your county development plan

Wicklow, Cork, and Dublin typically follow these exemptions, though rules can vary slightly by local authority. Our comprehensive planning permission guide explains the 2025 rules in detail.

When in doubt, check with your county council. Loghouse can advise on your specific situation.

What If I Move House?

This is the most common objection — and the easiest to address.

• A garden office adds 5–10% to your property value
• Estate agents confirm it’s a major buyer attraction
• Homes with garden offices sell 8–15% faster
• Loghouse cabins are modular — you can dismantle and relocate them if needed

The reality? The average Irish person stays in their home 7–10 years. Your ROI is crystal clear well before you sell, especially with high-quality renovations.

Will I Actually Use It Every Day?

Be honest with yourself. If you work from home fewer than two days per week, co-working might suit you better.

But remember: garden offices are versatile. When it’s not an office, it’s a studio, gym, guest room, or hobby space. The break-even calculation still works even if you only rent an office two days per week.

Maintenance & Longevity

Loghouse cabins have a 25–30 year lifespan with basic maintenance:

• Annual timber treatment (€50–€100 DIY)
• Gutter cleaning
• Window seal checks

That’s far less maintenance than a brick extension, with no plumbing issues or major repairs.

What About Internet & Heating?

Internet: Extend your home WiFi with a mesh system (€80–€150) or run an Ethernet cable.

Heating options:

• EVRad Ceramic Electric Radiator – 600W ceramic electric radiator with smart controls and ceramic heating technology; from €350
• Wood stove: €600–€1,200 (nearly free running costs)
• Mini split AC/heat pump: €800–€1,500 (efficient heating and cooling)

Check out our guide to heating options for garden rooms for detailed comparisons.

“But €15,000 Is a Lot Upfront…”

True. But so is €14,000 per year in rent — forever.

Finance options include personal loans, credit union loans, home improvement loans or Humm Finance. Even with loan interest, you still break even faster than renting.

Example: A €15,000 loan at 4.5% over five years costs €280/month. Compare that to €950/month in rent. You’re still saving €670 per month from day one.

⚠️ Still unsure? Book a free consultation at any Loghouse showroom. We’ll help you crunch your specific numbers.

Cost-Benefit of Garden Offices – Why Choose Loghouse? Ireland’s Garden Office Experts

We’ve been building for Irish conditions for over 20 years.

Engineered for Ireland

Our cabins are CE-marked and compliant with Irish Building Regulations. They’re engineered specifically for Irish weather — wind loads, driving rain, and our climate’s temperature swings.

We use premium materials: Nordic timber, triple-glazed window options, and breathable insulation systems that prevent condensation and damp.

See Before You Buy: 4 Showrooms Across Ireland

Visit any of our showrooms to see full-size display models and speak with our expert consultants:

• Bray Showroom (Wicklow) — ideal for Dublin commuter belt
• Kinsealy (North Dublin) — easy access from M1/M50
• Cork (Hanley’s, Frankfield) — serving Munster
• Athlone (Fernhill Garden Centre) — Midlands hub

Walk-in during opening hours or call ahead to book a consultation.

Transparent Pricing, No Hidden Costs

We provide detailed quotes upfront. Delivery is included within Ireland. Installation support is available, or you can choose our DIY-friendly designs.

No surprises. No hidden fees.

Real Customer Results

We’ve installed 8500+ garden offices across Ireland & the UK, with a 4.8/5 average rating on Google Reviews. Our customers consistently tell us the same thing: “I wish I’d done this years ago.”

Ready to explore your options?

📍 Find your nearest showroom
📞 Call for a free quote: 01 201 7675
✉️ Email: sales@loghouse.ie

Cost-Benefit of Garden Offices – FAQs: Garden Office vs Renting

How much does a garden office cost compared to renting?

A quality Loghouse garden office costs €10,400–€32,200 (one-time investment), while renting a Dublin office costs €13,920–€30,000 per year. The cost of a garden office will pay off within 18–30 months after which you will start saving money because your monthly expenses will be between €20–€60 instead of the €1,160–€2,500 you would pay for renting. Over five years, a garden office owner saves €56,000–€118,000 compared to renting.

Do I need planning permission for a garden office in Ireland?

Most garden offices under 25m² floor area and 4 metres height are planning-exempt in Ireland, provided they’re at least 1 metre from your boundary and comply with your county’s development plan. Local authorities have different rules regarding planning permission so it is important to check with your council or read our full planning guide. Loghouse will offer recommendations that suit your individual situation.

Can I claim tax relief on a garden office?

Yes! If you work from home three or more days per week, you can claim Remote Working Relief of €3.20 per day (up to €800/year) through Revenue.ie. This applies whether you work from a home office or a garden office. The standard rate does not need receipts for documentation because employees should maintain a record of their working days. Additionally, garden offices are considered part of your property, so any increase in home value is capital gains exempt on your primary residence. Learn more at Revenue.ie.

What happens to my garden office if I sell my house?

A well-built garden office typically adds 5–10% to your property value. The pandemic has led to an 8-15% increase in property sales in Ireland because estate agents report that homebuyers now want dedicated remote work spaces in their homes that cater to their specific needs. You can include the garden office in the sale (most common), or if it’s a modular Loghouse cabin, you can dismantle and relocate it to your new property. Either way, you benefit — unlike renting, where you walk away with nothing.

How long does a garden office last?

Every Loghouse garden office comes with a 10-year structural guarantee — we stand behind our quality with one of Ireland’s longest warranties in the industry. With basic maintenance (annual timber treatment, gutter cleaning), your Loghouse cabin has a 25–30 year lifespan, comparable to a traditional brick extension but at a cost-effective price.

Let’s look at the 10-year comparison:

Even with our premium models, your total 10-year cost (€39,000) is less than 16 months of Dublin office rent. And your Loghouse cabin still has 15–20 years of life remaining, fully covered by our guarantee for the first decade.

The ROI speaks for itself — backed by our 10-year guarantee for complete peace of mind, demonstrating much value for your investment. Learn more about our quality guarantee and how it enhances the value to your home..

Add Value with a Garden Room Office – The Smarter Long-Term Investment

The numbers don’t lie. Renting is dead money. Co-working is fine for occasional use. But a garden office is an investment that pays dividends — financially, mentally, and in property value.

For remote workers who work from home three or more days per week, who are tired of commuting or kitchen-table work, who want to build equity instead of enriching a landlord, and who value productivity, wellbeing, and work-life boundaries — a Loghouse garden office is the obvious choice.

The numbers:

• Break even in 18–30 months
• Save €56,000–€118,000 over 5 years
• Add €15,000–€30,000 to property value
• Reclaim 290+ hours per year (no commute)
• Tax relief of €800 per year

September is the perfect time to act. Reclaim your home from work clutter, eliminate your office rent, and invest in a space that grows in value — not your landlord’s pocket.

Take the first step today:

📍 Visit a showroom this weekend — Bray, Kinsealy, Cork, or Athlone, where garden room prices vary per square metre.
📞 Call 01 201 7675 for a free, no-obligation quote
✉️ Email sales@loghouse.ie with your dimensions and budget

Your future self — and your bank account — will thank you.

Related search terms: 2025 pricing guide, addition to your home, also add value, bespoke garden offices, boost your property’s value, build a garden room, buy a garden room, considering a garden, cost effective, costs involved, doors and windows, extend your living space, garden and wellbeing, garden offers, garden room log cabin, garden rooms are a great, garden space, high-quality garden, high-quality garden room, ideal garden room, intended use, interior ideas, lots of value, main house, modern design, much do garden offices, much value a garden office, office building, office can cost, outdoor space, overall aesthetic of your garden, overall cost, playroom for the kids, price per square, prices can vary, require planning permission, room to make, size and design, used all year round, used for various purposes, usually require planning permission, value of your property, way to extend your living, within your budget

Ever wondered about Back-to-School Study Pods?…..Check out our latest blog post for details.