“I’m absolutely thrilled with it.”

“That walk across the garden is amazing, a psychological distance you cross as if you’re going to work.”

To create her ideal work from home office, Joanne chose the Melwood Mod 19.

“It came at a perfect time, and I’m in here every day.”

Joanne says the outdoor room has proved a cost-effective and efficient way to add space to her home.

“We had thought about an extension, but that would have been so much more involved and more expensive.”

 

Since installing the cabana, she’s created a peaceful retreat in her backyard.

“It’s perfect. I’m a writer, so I need a lot of quiet time.”

“When I’m in here, I know exactly what I’m doing. I’m not sneaking out to the kitchen to get another cup of tea.”

Integrating home and work life without interruption is what Joanne values most.

“It’s been priceless—a place where I can be away from it all but still be close to home.”

“I get disturbed a lot less here by the family.”

“I got news of my two-book deal with my publisher when I was in my cabana, which was pretty momentous for me.”

“It’s another two years of work.”

Completing the interior, Joanne added her personal touches, creating an idyllic writer’s studio. 

“I wanted to move my whole library out here, so I wanted it to feel like a proper room.”

“Books are a big part of my life, so I wanted my day bed in there.”

Joanne’s husband was glad to see her backyard office come to life.

“He was very supportive. He said, ‘happy wife, happy life.’ If it’s going to keep you quiet and out of my way, then I’m all for it.”

And what does she say to anyone considering a Melwood?

“I would say it’s going to be an amazing asset for your house without a huge investment.”

“It’s incredible what a difference it makes to your life.”

“I wondered why I didn’t do it years ago.”

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