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Sheds are no longer just for lawn mowers, shovels, and miscellaneous gardening gear. People are turning the outdoor structures into bars, dining rooms, offices, guesthouses—hangouts that are void of hoses and rakes. According to building supply specialist Insulation4Less, searches for shed conversions rose by 284 percent between April and May, while inquiries into summer house conversions also shot up by 112 percent. Basically everyone is creating their dream staycation in their very own backyard. There are a few key updates you’ll have to make to your shed if you want to turn it into a livable space, so read on for some our favorite ideas.
Invest in Solid Bones
This shed, designed by Shanty Wijaya of Allprace, can triple as a gym, meditation area, and office all thanks to the AC unit and sturdy vinyl wood flooring (tile and cork are also solid choices).
Let There Be Light
Installing sizable windows or a bifold door (the one pictured above is 10 feet wide) lets you bring more natural light into your space and offers easy access to a nearby in-ground pool. Adding weather stripping to the openings and using sealing foam to keep water out will make sure your converted space lasts.
Shop Your Living (or Dining) Room
Taking a page out of photographer Veronica Grimm’s book, set up a cocktail-making station, bring in a dining table and record player, paint everything white, and—voilà!—let the good vibes begin.
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