Want a customized space outside?
Garden buildings and sheds are more than just somewhere to park your lawnmower these days. Many households are investing in custom spaces to increase the value of their property, solve their storage challenges, or get that extra room they’ve always wanted.
But there is a problem…
Generic, pre-packaged sheds rarely meet our needs properly. Standard designs are too small, impractically laid out, or clash with our property.
Custom garden sheds can solve all of that.
Contents
- Why Custom Garden Sheds Make Sense
- Popular Custom Shed Uses You Haven’t Thought Of Yet
- Design Features That Really Matter
- Materials and Construction Options
- Making Your Custom Shed Work For You
Why Custom Garden Sheds Make Sense
The demand for custom garden buildings is booming for a reason.
A recent report found 42% of single-family homes in the United States have some form of detached storage structure, equal to around 47 million homes.
But what’s missing from most homeowners’ knowledge base is that…
Custom garden sheds have a lot more flexibility than pre-built models. When you work with a custom shed builder like 1st Choice Leisure Buildings in Guildford, you are not locked into their stock sizes, models, or layouts. You get a purpose-built, professional design that’s just what you need for your space.
If you think about it:
Your outdoor space is different from your neighbors’. Your storage needs are unique to your property and your hobbies. So why would you settle for the same off-the-shelf solution everyone else has?
Custom design lets you use every square inch of the space you have and create something that complements your home, not clashes with it.
Popular Custom Shed Uses You Haven’t Thought Of Yet
Garden sheds are no longer just for storage.
Industry sources reported that the number of households adding any sort of outdoor living building to their properties increased by 21% in 2020 compared to 2019 and will continue expanding for years to come.
Here are the most popular shed uses:
Home Office Spaces
The pandemic has cemented remote work as the new normal for many professionals. A dedicated garden office provides a way to work outside the home without sacrificing the privacy and comfort of working in your own space.
Custom garden buildings make perfect home offices because you can design the layout, storage, and features from the ground up, instead of retrofitting an unsuitable room in your home or garage.
Fitness Studios
Gyms and fitness classes are expensive. And crowded. What if you could create your own personal home gym?
Custom garden sheds are great spaces for at-home workouts because you can make the room as big as you need. Include shelving for weights, wall space for mirrors, and good ventilation so you don’t roast inside in the summer.
Creative Workshops
Artists, woodworkers, and other creative types need dedicated space for their hobbies. A custom shed is a perfect solution to create room for your projects without taking over your garage or spare bedrooms.
Guest Accommodations
Visitors need a place to stay? An insulated, finished shed can be converted into proper guest quarters that give everyone their privacy.
Entertainment Spaces
Got a she-shed or man cave dream? What about a teen bedroom or home theater? Custom sheds can create the ideal escape for relaxation or entertainment.
The shed uses really are limited only by your imagination.
Design Features That Really Matter
Not all custom sheds are equal. You need to know which design features matter and which you can skimp on.
Focus on:
Size and Layout
Sheds need to be the right size and shape for your property, but still have room to be functional. Customization is key to maximizing every inch of available space, without overbuilding the structure. Layout is key, so make sure to consider access points, doorways, and interior planning before finalizing design plans.
Natural Light
Nobody wants to work in the dark. Skylights, windows, and glass doors all brighten up a shed so it feels like a home office, not a utility box. Bonus points for more natural light mean reduced energy consumption.
Insulation and Climate Control
Planning to use your shed year-round? Choose proper insulation and climate control features before construction, not after. Heating and cooling system space and ventilation will save you headaches down the road.
Electrical and Plumbing
Most modern sheds need wiring and power for lights, heating, or equipment. More complex designs may include plumbing for sinks or even bathroom facilities. Plan early for electrical and plumbing requirements if you need them.
Security Features
Good locks, sturdy doors, and security alarms are a must for any valuable equipment or tools. Make sure your custom shed design includes security elements as a priority.
Aesthetic Elements
Custom sheds should fit in with your home architecture, not stick out like a sore thumb. Check siding, roofing, and trim options to create a cohesive, pleasing look.
Materials and Construction Options
Choosing materials impacts both durability and maintenance.
Main options include:
Wood
Wooden sheds have traditional appeal and solid insulation values. Wood is easily customizable and paintable or stainable to suit your tastes. Wood requires regular maintenance though, to protect against rot and pest damage.
Metal
Metal sheds provide maximum durability with little upkeep. Fire, pest, and weatherproofing are all superior. Metal is hot in summer though and may need insulation for year-round use.
Composite Materials
Composite material advances have produced wood-like products with minimal maintenance requirements. They resist weather damage and are more eco-friendly than traditional wood.
Sustainable Options
Environmentally conscious owners can choose reclaimed wood, recycled materials, or sustainably sourced timber. These provide lower environmental impact and unique character.
Invest in a quality foundation. Sheds should be anchored and level to prevent settling, moisture problems, and other issues in the future.
Making Your Custom Shed Work For You
Planning is half the battle when it comes to custom sheds.
Begin by defining your main purpose. Storage? Workspace? Entertainment? You may use your shed for several functions, but you should have a clear idea of what you need it for first and foremost.
Consider these practical aspects:
Local Regulations
Building codes, permit requirements, and property line setbacks all vary by area. Make sure you know your local regulations before you start building. Many places have specific restrictions on shed size, positioning, and construction methods.
Budget Planning
Building custom doesn’t have to break the bank. Set a realistic budget including materials, labor, electrical, and any finishing work or appliances you want. Quality construction is an investment with superior longevity.
Future Needs
Think about what you might need in 5 years or 10 years. Designing your custom shed with flexibility in mind allows you to adjust the space as your life changes.
Professional Installation
Contractors with experience and references ensure quality construction and proper permits. They also can provide advice on design elements you may not think of yourself.
Maintenance Planning
Maintenance is inevitable with any building. Account for the time and cost of upkeep like painting, sealing, and repairs to keep your shed looking great.
Wrapping Things Up
Custom garden sheds are solutions to real problems.
They provide just the space we need for our hobbies, work, or relaxation. They solve our storage challenges without taking over our property or compromising our home’s design.
They key is working with experienced builders and designers that understand both construction and aesthetics. Planning, quality materials, and long-term thinking make all the difference.
Your action plan:
- Define your primary shed use and non-negotiable features
- Research local building codes and restrictions
- Set a budget that is realistic and includes all costs
- Choose materials and design that balance durability and style
- Work with trusted builders and contractors for quality work
Your outdoor space has potential. Custom sheds let you unlock it.
The garden buildings and sheds market will continue growing because more people realize the value of purpose-built spaces. They are investments that pay dividends by improving daily life and adding property value.
Get started today. Your perfect custom garden shed is waiting to be designed.