News

24th August 2018

Customer Stories: the Shire Mimosa Arbour

Our solid yet classically elegant Shire Mimosa Arbour is a beautiful way to relax and enjoy the sun – but don’t just take our word for it. Take a look at these wonderful pictures sent in by our customers, and decide for yourself:

 

Roy has done a lovely paint job on his Shire Mimosa Arbour, and we think it’s in the perfect spot. A wonderful place to enjoy the sunshine from the comfort of the shade, Roy’s Mimosa makes the ideal seat for reading or enjoying the garden with a friend.

Those side trellis sections make great windows to view a wider portion of the garden, but their heavy-duty nature means they also suit climbing plants. Strong, stylish and versatile – what more could you ask for?

Here’s a birthday celebrated in style! This beautifully painted Shire Mimosa Arbour was sent in by Nicki Parrot, who was clearly very proud of this decorating job for her Dad’s birthday (though the paint or the banners, we’re not sure – probably both!).

The gorgeous green here means the Mimosa fits in wonderfully with the plant life around it, and those white highlights are really picked out by the sunlight.

Not only is this tasteful arbour a great addition to your garden, but it’s quick and easy to assemble too. Take a look at our time-lapse assembly video on our YouTube channel to see the professionals at work.

Interested in getting hold of your own Shire Mimosa Arbour? Then visit the product page for more information and order today!

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17th August 2018

Shire Sun Pent Shiplap Potting Shed

Think that a shed is a shed is a shed? Think again. The Sun Pent Shiplap Shed is one of our most popular sheds for a number of very good reasons.

First, it looks great in any garden setting with its attractive and stylish design. This is partly due to the five fixed windows along the front of the shed which allow in plenty of natural light. It also has two opening windows so you can control the internal temperature with ease. The windows make the Sun Pent more than a shed, they turn it into the ideal potting shed. Seed sewing is always an enjoyable part of gardening and you will gain even more pleasure working at the full length workbench, which comes as standard, in a weatherproof shed. The Sun Pent will protect your vulnerable plants until the weather is suitable for outdoor planting or you can grow potted plants all year round.

Secondly, this is not a flimsy shed, but one which is built to withstand the elements. Made from high quality spruce, which is more durable than pine, the 12mm shiplap tongue and groove walls, floor and roof will last for years. And there’s a ten year anti-rot guarantee for extra reassurance and a rim lock and key for security.

Thirdly, this shed can be painted; choose a striking colour and give some life to a mundane area of your garden, or stick to a conventional shade so that your shed blends into the background. A coat of paint will give even greater protection to the timber.

The combination of quality materials and plenty of natural light gives the building even more uses than a potting shed. Some customers have bought the larger sized Sun Pent for hobbies which require attention to detail such as model making or painting, and we’ve even heard of it being used as a hide to watch birds. The floor joists are strong enough to take more than average loads so you can store a range of materials and even some machinery.

Overall, the Sun Pent Potting Shed offers so much more than a conventional shed. Available in four sizes at an affordable price, the shed can be delivered within 14-21 working days and delivery is free for most mainland areas. Order yours today!

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10th August 2018

Customer Stories: the Shire Jersey Apex Shed

Looking for a spacious garden shed that’s adaptable to your needs? Whether it’s storage, a workshop, or even an outdoor reception area you want, the Shire Jersey Apex Shed is a great option, and our customers think so too. Take a look at the images and reviews below:

Sara sent us this picture of her newly-assembled Shire Jersey Apex Shed, and we think it looks great. The large windows will let in plenty of sunlight, and it matches perfectly with the bench and table outside.

“It was easy to put together, looks amazing, and we are very happy. Thank you!”

One great thing about the Jersey is that all of the wall panels are interchangeable, meaning they can be positioned on any side and at different points along the shed walls. This makes the shed highly adaptable to your needs and those of your garden.

Sara has arranged her windows to be next to each other along the same wall, allowing daylight to flood in from that side and light up the whole room. This is ideal if you’re using the Jersey as a workshop or outdoor playroom, because it maximises the natural light available and can ensure there are large stretches of wall for shelving or larger equipment.

We absolutely love what John has done with his Shire Jersey Apex Shed. This is a great example of how painted and unpainted wood can look brilliant together, and the colour scheme works beautifully with the rest of his garden.

John also let us know about some extra fittings he added to make the Jersey truly his: “The floor panels and walls are insulated with 30mm polystyrene with electrics threaded through the structure, then panelled with 9mm OSB and 73mm guttering fitted.”

This is a great example of how accommodating and customisable the Shire Jersey Apex Shed is, able to be adapted to perfectly suit your needs. This shed is also amazing value for money, meaning that additional fittings like John’s can still result in a low-cost final result.

Interested in getting your own Shire Jersey Apex Shed? Take a look at the product page for more information, and order yours today!

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3rd August 2018

Whitby Arches and Arbour

Whitby, whaleboats and whalebones go together; but would you expect such connections to feature in your garden? Perhaps surprisingly, you should, and here at elbec we think you’ll be really delighted with the result. Let us explain.

The Whitby range from Forest Garden are a set of attractive, matching garden features inspired by a pair of whale jawbones which have intrigued visitors to the seaside town of Whitby for decades. The range includes the Whitby Arch, the Whitby Arbour, and the Whitby Extended Arch.

Made from mixed softwood which has been pressure treated to protect against rot for 15 years, the curved posts of the Whitby range have been achieved by carefully cutting and laminating the timbers, and the strong section rails make these garden structures ideal for supporting a range of climbing plants.

The Whitby Arch is perfect for adding a striking feature to your garden. With thick section rails 76cm deep, this arch is ideal for training even the most demanding of climbing plants, so you can create your own gorgeous garden centrepiece. The width between the arch posts is 1.4m so there’s plenty of room for all your garden equipment to get through. Even when set into the ground, the arch stands over 2m high, making a dramatic visual statement in any style of garden.

Those of you with larger gardens may prefer the Whitby Extended Arch, a deeper version of the original arch at 150cm deep. This is ideal if you want to create an area which provides greater shade from climbing plants, or if you’re planning a more adventurous planting scheme.

Also available is the Whitby Arbour, a version of the arch which includes a bench across the width. The seat is raised off the floor slightly and is hinged so that you can store items such as cushions inside. However, the storage area is not watertight so be aware it may not be suitable for all your storage needs during the winter months.

All products in the Whitby range come flat packed with easy to follow, step-by-step instructions. All the fixings are included and construction should be quick and simple – plus, delivery is free to all parts of the mainland.

Install a Whitby Arch or Arbour and you will be able to combine the strength of a whale with a planting scheme that makes your garden very special and unique. Order yours today! 

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27th July 2018

Customer Stories: the Shire Hampton Corner Summerhouse

The ever-popular Shire Hampton Corner Summerhouse is a great way to make the most of your garden, providing both an excellent use for that awkward corner and making a beautiful and practical focal point. Not sure yet, or looking for some summer inspiration? See what our customers did with their summerhouses below:

June and Harry have done an excellent job with their Hampton Summerhouse – it looks incredibly cosy. We particularly appreciate the heart above the door and the elegant colour scheme.

Adding a pair of curtains to the doorway is also a great touch, able to keep the glare off on a hot summer’s day and look stylish at the same time.

“Thanks for such a stress free order and delivery,” they said, adding that they’re looking forward to “many happy hours in our corner summerhouse”. Thank you for your beautiful pictures!

Hel’s version of the Shire Hampton Corner Summerhouse is decorated with neat garden furniture and cheerful bunting.

“I am soooo delighted with the house”, Hel said. “We ‘opened’ it with cosmos,” the tasty cocktails that have given the summerhouse its new name – Cosmo Cottage!

This fun and festive summer setup emphasises the Hampton’s instant style, and we’re sure the beautiful full-glazed double doors and matching windows will bring in plenty of light to enjoy those drinks by.

“This is our lovely summerhouse we got off you. We absolutely love it, thanks.”

Karen’s found a great sunny spot in the garden for her new Shire Hampton Corner Summerhouse. We like how neat and stylish it looks with that paintwork.

The inside of the summerhouse is just as high quality, with a built-in tongue and groove construction in the floor to make the building better sealed from the elements. Weather resistant windows also mean that Karen can enjoy the Hampton for longer.

Kate is another of our happy customers who has nestled her Hampton in the corner of her colourful garden, and painted it in a beautiful colour scheme to match.

Colour is always a great way to add personality to your summerhouse, and there’s no end to the possibilities. Shire recommends that you apply a water-based top coat of your choice, and we have plenty of options available. Let your imagination run wild!

“We purchased a corner summerhouse from you which we are absolutely delighted with! Fantastic value for money and easy to assemble.”

We were blown away by this gorgeous setup – Lisa has made a proper little paradise with her Hampton.
The simple but stylish paint colours inside and out serve to accentuate the brighter colours of her accessories inside, and her amazing lighting means the Shire Hampton Corner Summerhouse can be enjoyed day and night. Those fairy lights are a wonderful, subtle detail too.

Interested in making your own Hampton haven? Check out the product page here.

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20th July 2018

Box Clever – choose a plastic storage solution

Storage! Does anyone ever think they have sufficient storage? Probably not.  Finding storage solutions is actually not difficult; there’s plenty of choice, but many of the options available tend to be expensive. If you’re looking for something that will improve your living conditions without breaking the bank, then it’s worth checking out elbec’s range of plastic storage.  Sensibly priced and catering for both indoor and outside use, there’s plenty to choose from.

Take, for example, the Shire range of plastic storage cupboards from just under £50 to £70 depending on the size. Made from robust polypropylene these storage cupboards have shelves and enough space to tuck a range of objects out of sight. Whether you want to store tins and toys or buckets and brooms, the Shire plastic storage cupboards are ideal for indoor use.

The Forest range of plastic storage boxes works well outside and all the options are very well-priced. Ranging from under £25 for a 1 metre cube wood effect storage box, to just under £150 for a large rattan effect garden storage box, there’s plenty of choice to solve all your storage problems. The Forest plastic storage solutions are made to withstand the weather so can be left outside all year round.

If you live near the coast then it’s worth considering the Lifetime plastic storage boxes which withstand salt air. Currently available from £125 - £160 these storage boxes provide a safe and secure place to store a range of possessions wherever you live.

Suncast also has a number of storage options ranging from deck boxes which double as seating, attractively priced at £169, to a rattan style vertical deck box at £325.

Although a plastic box will hide all sorts of objects, they aren’t much use for storing larger equipment such as lawnmowers or bikes. In such cases, only a shed will do and elbec offers a choice of sizes, styles and prices in its plastic range. 

Mercia plastic sheds range from 4x6 at £346 to 6x10 for under £600. All the options are ideal for storing garden equipment and have air vents which allow air to flow through the building to counteract condensation.

If you’re looking for a larger plastic shed, check out the Lifetime range which has high specifications but realistic prices. There’s plenty of choice and options for one or two doors which can be arranged to suit you.

Finding storage solutions does not have to be an expensive exercise if you choose from elbec’s range of plastic boxes and sheds. Whatever your garden style there’s something to suit the size of your property as well as the size of your pockets.

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13th June 2018

The Mercia Cube Summerhouse

Does your garden offer impressive views from more than one angle? This makes choosing a summerhouse really difficult because when you want to enjoy the visual impact of your garden so much depends on where the windows are positioned.

The Mercia Cube Summerhouse could be the answer. It is one of the best lit summerhouses around with five full length windows on three sides plus windows in the bi-fold doors, all giving great views of your garden. And there’s no need to be concerned about safety because all the windows are made from shatterproof styrene which is also environmentally sound.

Whatever the weather, there is plenty of room in the summerhouse for both relaxing and entertaining. On the front and one side of the building there is a veranda which increases the useful space and is sheltered by the contemporary and stylish pent roof.

The Cube is well built with a number of quality features including a ten year anti-rot guarantee. Despite the vast expanse of glazing here is a summerhouse which is strong, robust and built to withstand the weather. Enjoy the views of your garden in comfort when it’s pouring with rain or too cold to be outdoors for very long.

Tempted? We’re not surprised and the Cube Summerhouse could be yours within 3-7 days. Delivery is often shorter so please call us if you have a specific date in mind. The Cube comes with the option of booking our professional team of fitters who will erect it for you if you are not comfortable assembling it yourself.

Contact us if you have further queries, we are always happy to help.

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23rd April 2018

Mercia Studio Log Cabin Range - Budget Doesn't Need To Be Basic

A log cabin is a great addition to any garden and one of the most popular at an affordable price is the Mercia Studio Log Cabin.

The Mercia Studio Log Cabin would look good in any garden setting with its neat, contemporary appearance. Although it is a compact building, just right for smaller gardens, open the double doors and you’ll be surprised by the amount of space inside. The Studio feels airy and light thanks to the large opening windows which have the added advantage of giving you control over the inside temperature. Durable safety glass is used throughout, and the windows and doors can be reversed so that you are able to position the cabin in awkward areas of your garden to maximise your space.

The Studio Log Cabin lends itself to a variety of uses: it’s ideal for relaxing in comfort all year round, or it would make a great hobby room, a children’s play area or could even be used as an office. However you decide to use the Studio, you can be certain of its quality. The walls are made from 19mm logs which will keep you snug in winter, and the floor and roof are made from 16mm tongue and groove. The roof comes with heavy duty roofing felt for extra protection and the floor is sufficiently sturdy to support heavy loads. A ten year anti-rot guarantee is included for that extra peace of mind.

The Studio Log Cabin is available in six sizes, three of which come with a veranda which adds to the appearance of the cabin and means you can sit outside protected by the overhanging roof. The version with a veranda is ideal for entertaining.

Assembly is straightforward but not everyone feels sufficiently confident to do it themselves which is why professional assembly is available. Delivery is usually within 7 – 10 working days and it is free to UK mainland addresses.
Overall the Mercia Studio Log Cabin has so much going for it that it’s well worth your consideration if you are looking for an attractive garden building which you can adapt to your needs.

Have a look at the studio range!

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20th April 2018

Vibrant Vermont! A Summerhouse For All Seasons

Open up the opportunities for enjoying your garden with a Mercia Vermont Summerhouse. Among the most striking attributes of this popular summerhouse are the bi-fold doors which mean that you can use this attractive and contemporary garden building all year round.

Take advantage of good weather by throwing open the doors and use the space for keeping food and drinks out of the sun while you and your guests spill out into the open air. Or, in the event of a sudden downpour, close the doors and you can still sit and chat with your family and friends in a light and airy room.

The number of windows and doors included in the design are an important feature of this spacious summerhouse and, wherever you site the Vermont in your garden, the building will be filled with light. This makes it an ideal studio for an artist, craftsperson, sculptor or anyone who has a hobby which relies on good natural light. And with a strong and stable floor as a standard item, you will be able to house or store heavier equipment or furniture.

The Vermont Summerhouse is such a versatile building, offers great value for money and comes in two sizes, 8x8 or 10x8 for even greater flexibility.

It is well built with a 10 year anti-rot guarantee and would look stunning painted in a striking colour theme. Let your imagination run riot. If you have a colour theme in the planted areas of your garden, why not complement or contrast this with a painted theme for your summerhouse? Whether you make your summerhouse stand out and become a talking point for your guests, or whether it blends sympathetically into your garden as a relaxing retreat, the Vermont Summerhouse should meet all your requirements.

Tempted? The Mercia Vermont Summerhouse can be delivered within three to seven working days and there is an option to book a professional team to assemble the building if you’re wary of doing it yourself. Still have questions? Have a look at the product pages for the Vermont 8x8 and the Vermont 10x8.

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14th March 2018

Delamere Log Cabin with Side Store

Looking for a stylish log cabin which includes extra storage space as standard? Check out the Mercia Delamere Log Cabin which gives you plenty of space to relax plus a secure, windowless area for items you want to keep out of view.

This practical approach to using space could be ideal if you have a smallish garden and can’t accommodate both a log cabin and a shed. The Delamere offers both in an attractive building which will look just right wherever it is sited in your garden.

The sitting part of the cabin is well lit with full length double doors, an opening side window and sufficient room to welcome friends whatever the weather. It’s equally ideal if you just want somewhere comfortable to curl up on your own with a good book, or to use as a home office.

The storage area offers plenty of secure space for keeping valuable items neat and tidy when they are not in use. Both the living and storage elements blend harmoniously and you have the option of reversing them so that the building works well wherever it is sited in your garden.

The Delamere Log Cabin is well made and includes a number of quality features such as sturdy floor bearers which provide additional support and help to protect the building from damp and rot – especially important if you are storing garden furniture during the winter months. The Delamere stands out among log cabins as a practical, attractive and cost effective way of delivering both social and storage space in one unit.

Tempted? The Delamere Log Cabin can be yours within 5-28 working days and there is an option to book a professional team who will assemble the building for you if you’re not convinced you have the requisite skills to do it yourself. Still have questions? That’s fine. Contact us by email or phone and we’ll be more than happy to answer your queries.

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