If you are not into gardening and don’t need the extra storage space, it can be tempting if you have a garden shed to leave it to decay. However, there are actually plenty of ways you could be using it to increase the living space on your property.
With a bit of creativity and a surprisingly small amount of effort, you can transform a garden shed into what is essentially an extra room in your house. Because the space is typically small, most people who do this will dedicate their new shed space to a specific activity.
If you are considering a shed conversion of your own, here are some ideas and tips to get you started:
- A music studio or rehearsal space: For people who are passionate about music, quality garden sheds make great spaces to practice or produce music without disturbing others. However, if you plan to leave your instruments in there when you are not using them then it will be important to be able to control the temperature and humidity inside.
- A home office: Sheds are also a good place to get away from distractions and noise so that you can focus on being productive. Now that working from home is more common than ever and many people no longer commute, a shed office can put a bit of physical distance between your work and your home that can help you keep them separate. For this, you will of course need a desk and power outlets, but you probably don’t want it to resemble a dreary office. Opt for natural light by having some windows installed if you can, and throw in a nice rug and some plants to create a pleasant atmosphere.
- A guest house: Before you choose this option you should consider how close your shed is to the main house if there is no room to install a bathroom. You will need to make sure it is well-insulated, ventilated, and dry for your guests. Provide them with a comfy bed, a nightstand and lamp, a rug or carpet to protect them from cold floors, and some storage space. Decorate with soft pastel colours can make it feel summery and bright.
- A gym: If you are thinking that surely there will not be enough room, remember that you will not have to share the equipment with the public. When you keep it to only the equipment you use the most, it often does not take much space at all. While you will need lights and power outlets for treadmills, this is one of the easiest ways to transform your shed as you basically only need the gym equipment itself.
- A man cave or she shed: This is simply a place for you to be alone, relax, and indulge in your favourite hobbies. If you’re a bookworm, you will want some comfy seats, bookshelves, and ample lighting. A sports fan might prefer a TV or projector and lots of their favourite team’s merchandise.
Hopefully, these ideas have got you thinking about what to do with your shed. If you plan on building a garden shed instead of converting, make sure you have the approval you need.
