Surrey homeowners invest in garden upgrades as ‘improve, don’t move’ trend accelerates
Homeowners across Surrey are increasingly choosing to invest in their existing properties rather than move, as rising costs and limited housing supply continue to reshape the local market.
New industry data published on InsightDIY indicates that UK homeowners are expected to spend an average of £865 on garden and outdoor projects in 2026, up from £798 in 2025, a figure that reflects everyday upgrades as well as a growing number of homeowners making more significant investments in permanent outdoor spaces.
In areas such as Leatherhead and Guildford, this shift is becoming particularly pronounced. Instead of upsizing, many households are rethinking how they use their existing space, with gardens emerging as one of the biggest opportunities.
One Surrey homeowner embracing this trend is Rebecca, from Leatherhead, who transformed her underused lawn into a fully integrated indoor-outdoor living space with the help of Eden Garden Rooms.
Working alongside a garden designer, Rebecca commissioned a 6m x 4m luxury family room, complete with full-height glazing and bespoke interior finishes, alongside a 4m x 4m covered outdoor seating area with cedar cladding, aluminium detailing and millboard decking. Positioned in a secluded corner of the garden, the structure was designed to maximise natural light and create a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape. The result is a versatile space used for everything from family relaxation to games, including a full table tennis setup.
A similar story played out in Guildford, where homeowner Jason prioritised additional living space even before moving into his new-build property.
Seeing a garden room as essential rather than optional, Jason commissioned a 5m x 3.5m multi-purpose space designed to function as both an entertaining area and occasional guest accommodation. The build included a fully integrated WC and a cleverly concealed shed store, allowing him to maximise functionality without compromising on garden aesthetics.
Designed virtually ahead of the main house being completed, the structure was carefully positioned to create a focal point while maintaining privacy. Large sliding doors and floor-to-ceiling glazing bring in natural light, while a combined heating and air conditioning system ensures year-round use.
Both projects highlight how homeowners are increasingly viewing garden buildings as essential, flexible extensions of their homes rather than luxury add-ons.
Duncan Movassaghi, owner of Eden Garden Rooms, said: “Luxury garden buildings have become a highly sought-after addition to Surrey homes, particularly as space remains at a premium and the property market remains volatile. Increasingly, homeowners are investing in improving and adding value to their homes rather than relocating.
“While home offices remain popular, we’re seeing a definite trend towards leisure and wellbeing spaces such as home gyms, yoga studios and even golf simulators. The most popular designs at the moment are bespoke, multi-purpose spaces offering year-round use and adding both lifestyle flexibility and genuine value to properties.”
With outdoor space now seen as an extension of the home rather than an afterthought, Surrey’s gardens are fast becoming the focus of a new wave of investment, one that prioritises lifestyle, flexibility and long-term value over the upheaval of moving.