Crane Garden Buildings

Crane Garden Buildings was founded in 1974 and is family-run. David Crane hand-crafted the first shed. The company was renamed from Crane Joinery Supplies to Crane Sheds and Summerhouses in 1980. It was awarded the Royal Warrant of Appointment around 1995. In 2009, the company became FSC certified and formed a partnership with John Lewis. A partnership with the National Trust followed in 2010. The company rebranded to Crane Garden Buildings in 2013. In 2016, it started a partnership with Farrow & Ball.

As of 2023, the company had over 130 employees. It offers a 10-year guarantee. With over 50 years' experience, its buildings are handmade to order in Norfolk. The company provides delivery and installation. It offers a range of garden buildings including sheds, garden rooms, offices, studios, summerhouses, and greenhouses. There is a show centre at Syon Park in London, located within Hillier Garden Centre, with sales designers Lizzie and Ben. The company has 12 show centres across the country and 22 core buildings.

Garden buildings and outdoor rooms form the focus of this Brentford-based operation, whose Syon Park display site allows customers to inspect sheds and garden structures before committing to a purchase. Several reviewers describe the sales team as knowledgeable and patient, with Benjamin Powling singled out for his helpful suggestions and design guidance. Visitors mention being shown courtyard examples of completed buildings, which helped them visualise finishes and options, and quotes and plans were said to arrive promptly by email. A recurring point is the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, with one account noting that questions were answered thoroughly during a showroom visit.

The quality of the finished garden building is repeatedly praised, with reviewers highlighting a good standard of finish and careful attention to detail. Even where a customer ultimately chose a different supplier, the service received was described as excellent throughout. Design support, clear communication and a pleasant purchasing experience come up consistently, alongside the availability of showroom examples that allow buyers to compare specifications. Staff guide customers through the design process from initial enquiry to confirmed order, with particular credit given to Benjamin Powling for his patience and product knowledge.