The Shire Aster Summerhouse is a high-quality and stylish garden building, perfect for relaxation ...The Shire Aster Summerhouse is a high-quality and stylish garden building, perfect for relaxation and practical side storage. This 12 x 8 ft summerhouse features bi-fold doors and a single door for the storage area, both equipped with a lock and key for security. It includes two fixed windows for ample natural light, allowing you to enjoy views of your garden. The construction boasts 12mm shiplap cladding, a 12mm tongue and groove floor and roof, and a durable 44 x 44mm framing for a sturdy structure. The roof is covered with green mineral felt. Supplied with a honey brown dip-treated base coat preservative, ready for your preferred top coat. The windowless storage room can be configured on either the left or right side to suit your garden layout. With eaves over 7ft high, it offers a spacious interior, ideal for dining or relaxing. The bi-fold doors and windows are glazed with styrene safety glazing. Made from the highest grade, slow-grown, northern European pine. Assembly instructions are provided. Please ensure a flat and level base is prepared, as grass, soil, or gravel are not sufficient. Shire is unable to deliver to certain postal codes including AB, BT, DD, FK, GY, HS, IM, IV, JE, KW, KY, LL, PA19+, PH postcodes, PL, SA19+, SY15+, TR, and ZE.
The Shire Aster Summerhouse is an ideal choice for homeowners seeking a versatile garden structure that balances a relaxing retreat space with functional, hidden storage. Built from high-quality, slow-grown northern European pine, it features a 12x8 ft footprint and clever design elements like bi-fold doors for seamless garden access. While it provides an elegant addition to any backyard, users should note that the timber arrives with only a base coat preservative and requires a dedicated, level foundation for long-term structural integrity.
All features
Colour
Brown
Model Part Number
ASTR1208DSL-1AA
Brand
Shire
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Can I swap the storage room to the other side after assembly?
The storage room location is decided during the initial assembly process. Changing the configuration after the building is completed would require a partial disassembly.
What type of foundation do I need?
You must prepare a flat, level, and solid base such as concrete, paving slabs, or a timber deck. Direct contact with grass or soil will void the integrity of the timber.
Is the styrene glazing safe for families with children?
Yes, styrene is a shatter-resistant safety glazing material, making it a safer option than traditional glass for garden structures.
Does the summerhouse come painted?
No, it arrives with a honey brown dip-treated base coat. You are expected to apply your own choice of top coat preservative or paint.
Is the summerhouse secure?
The building includes locks and keys for both the bi-fold doors and the storage area to keep your belongings and furniture secure.
Troubleshooting
Doors are difficult to open or stick
Check that the foundation is perfectly level. If the base has shifted, the frame may torque, causing the doors to bind.
Water pooling on the roof
Ensure the mineral felt is installed correctly with no overlaps allowing water entry and confirm that the structure remains level.
Wood showing signs of color fading
The initial dip-treatment is for transit protection only. Apply a dedicated outdoor wood stain or paint to restore color and increase UV/moisture protection.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Versatile layout with dedicated storage space
High-grade, slow-grown European pine construction
Stylish bi-fold doors for wide, open access
Includes secure locking mechanisms for both sections
Ample interior height for comfort
Cons
Requires a solid, level base (cannot be placed on grass or soil)
Supplied with a base coat only; requires a top coat treatment
Limited delivery coverage for certain remote postal codes
Self-assembly required
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Installation requires at least two people and a level base. You must avoid placing the structure directly on grass, soil, or loose gravel to prevent moisture ingress and timber rot. Upon delivery, the timber is protected by a honey brown dip-treated preservative, but this is a factory base coat. You must apply a high-quality water-repellent wood treatment or paint shortly after assembly to protect the pine from the elements and extend its lifespan. Check all fasteners periodically to ensure they remain tight after the timber settles.