From simple storage to homey hideaway, there is a DIY kit or building plan out there for just about
every kind of shed you can imagine. Your first step is to decide its primary use, which will help you
determine the size and style of shed you need.
Some examples:
- Dedicated office space
- Gaming den
- Crafting or sewing corner
- Reading space
- Intimate home theater
- Garden storage
- Meditation and yoga nook
- Guest cottage
The foundation you choose for your shed will depend mostly on whether or not you plan to keep the shed
in-place for the long term. An on-grade foundation is typically
less expensive and easier to install,
but a concrete slab foundation will stand the test of time.
Consider:
- Concrete slab (most permanent)
- Plastic foundation
- Pavers
- Gravel pad
- Deck blocks
- Manufactured kit
There's a shed out there for you, whether you're an old pro at DIY or this is your first time
using
your drill. If you've got the time and skillset, there are free, printable plans online to walk
you
through every step of the process from scratch. If you're in need of a little more guidance (and
don't
want to purchase everything you'll need separately), your local home improvement store and many
online
retailers sell manufactured kits with easy-to-follow instructions for assembly.
Decide on construction:
- Build it yourself from the ground up
- Purchase and assemble a prefab kit
Unless you're planning to use your shed as simple garden storage or perhaps an exterior sunroom,
you'll want to run power to your new space. We all have limits to our DIY capabilities and, even
if
you built your shed from the ground up, running electrical is typically best left to a professional.
Consult with an electrician about your planned use for the shed, and they'll help ensure you get
the
right number of outlets and pre-wires for lighting.
Let the light in:
- Utilize natural light
- Run electrical
- Install solar panels
Once you've laid the foundation and built the structure, the real fun begins! With limited space,
you'll want to consider finishing touches that work well in tight spaces — furniture with hidden
storage, wall-mounted shelving, modular seating, etc. Let your personality show through paint,
wallpaper, art and other dècor. Lastly, don't forget this is a shed! Be sure to spruce up the area
outside your space for some not-quite-curb appeal.
Finish your space:
- Paint, wallpaper or wood stain
- Art and décor items
- Functional furniture and organization
- Welcoming plants or flowers