The Endless Possibilities For Adding A Shed To Your Backyard

Sheds come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and formats, from tiny metal lean-tos meant for stashing shovels and rakes to larger wooden structures that look like small houses. While the functionality of your shed can vary according to factors like construction, wiring/plumbing access, and the climate you live in, there are a million different ways even the simplest sheds can serve a purpose that goes beyond storing outdoor tools and lawn mowers. With a few modifications and some imagination, these storage structures can be turned into everything from blissful bookish retreats to functional utility rooms that free up space in your home. 

When considering how to use your shed, things to think about include comfort and environment. Some of these ideas mean spending a lot of time there, so you will want comfortable places to sit or stand, good lighting, and proper insulation and climate control. You may also want to check local zoning laws for certain uses, like sleeping spaces, to be up to code.

One of the most common uses for a small shed is for storing gardening tools and other essentials in your yard. Up the ante on this idea by turning any small structure into the perfect potting shed. Add some counters and workbenches, a stool, and shelves for supplies, and seedling starters. If your shed has windows, position it to take advantage of the natural light, or build an adjacent greenhouse to grow plants that need a more controlled environment. You can also add skylights or grow lights inside. Modify an existing shed or build a slender potting shed from vintage doors or a greenhouse from old windows.

Other helpful details include proximity of water for hoses or sinks, as well as a nearby compost bin for cuttings. You may also want to find pest control solutions, especially if the space is not well insulated. Since working in comfort is key, also look for ways to make it a space you want to spend time in with comfy seating and work areas with good ventilation and temperature control.

An ingenious use for outdoor structures is creating fun recreational spaces, including she sheds, man caves, playrooms, and more. This extra living space for quiet escape can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Many are simple summertime structures that can only be used during warmer weather while others offer luxe temperature-controlled environments that can even serve as extra sleeping spaces. Comfort is key in this case, so you will want to make sure it is both insulated and fully wired.

Create the perfect retreat by adding cozy seating and space for reading or socializing with a focus on comfort and decor. Add fun elements like a big-screen TV and game tables for a fun man cave. Use it as a music room with instruments and a killer stereo. Sheds can also be outfitted as an outdoor playroom or playhouse for little ones that give them their own dedicated space (and help keep the house and yard clutter-free.) Add a sleeping loft or a foldout sofa, and you also have the perfect guest room.

With more and more people working from home, a stylish and fully outfitted home office is essential. So why not turn an ordinary shed into the workspace of your dreams? Comfort and technology can be some of the most important factors, so you will need an ergonomic chair, a large desk, and options for additional seating while working on a laptop or other device. You will need electricity and Wi-Fi access, as well as technology like printers, chargers, and webcams. You can even add fun elements like coffee makers and a mini fridge for snacks. You get the ultimate convenience of a very short commute, but can feel more structured in your work/life balance with a way to close the door on tasks when you're done for the day. It also gives you a perfect spot to meet with clients or co-workers that isn't your house.

Or, if you are an artist, crafter, or maker, turn a shed into the perfect studio that offers storage and workspace for all your supplies. Invest in lots of shelves, workbenches, and counters that make it a functional working area. An exterior shed is especially great if you work with lots of messy supplies like wood or clay, or if you prefer to keep toxic or flammable supplies away from your home's interior.

If you love to entertain, consider turning an ordinary shed into a fun outdoor bar. You can set up the bar in the shed's interior or have a large window with a counter and bar stools outside. This keeps beverages cooler than sitting out in the sun and gives you a place outside your home to store liquor and glassware. You may also be able to deck it out with appliances like ice machines, mini fridges, and industrial blenders that are too large to store in the kitchen.

If you can hook up plumbing, add a sink for cleanup and water access. For a larger shed, use the inside space for entertaining and add other fun elements like dart boards, board games, or karaoke set-ups. Go with the ever-popular tropical tiki bar theme or create a tavern or pub vibe with vintage alcohol memorabilia and neon light beer signs.

If you don't have a dedicated space in your home for the washer and dryer, turn your shed into the perfect laundry room. It can save you endless trips up and down basement stairs and prevent having to crowd large appliances into tiny spaces like closets and bathrooms. You can add electrical hookups and plumbing to power the machines, as well as a large basin sink. Build some shelves for laundry supplies, then add counters or tables for folding and sorting.

An outdoor laundry room is also great if you love hanging sheets and linens for air-drying your laundry outside. Just suspend a retractable laundry line from the side of the shed that attaches to a pole or a tree. Doing laundry will feel like a retreat and not a chore if you make the laundry room as stylish as it is useful with pretty signage and decor. You can even add some seating if you want to fold and sort in comfort.