The man cave has become a regular fixture in many homes, and just as this men‑only area is designed to allow a guy and his pals to unwind and recharge, so too is the space known as the she shed.
Both spaces are designed for enjoying hobbies, entertaining family or friends, writing, or just being.
Think of them as retreats from the everyday world and you are on the right track.
And just as a retreat should be a place all its own, so too should the she shed. A man cave is often part of the home and set in an unused room, a basement or even the garage.
Women, though, want to get a bit farther from the everyday world, and it is why a she shed is often a separate structure.
If you are thinking of one, the ideal spot may already exist in the backyard. It could be that little used, free‑standing garage, the old and neglected shed, or that charming playhouse where the kids once enjoyed many hours.
Maybe your property has no such structure? That’s okay because there are many easy‑to‑build or prefab kits for the she shed of your dreams. Simply follow the steps from the manufacturer and build a DIY she shed!
Whichever path is yours to follow, remember that it is the journey that is some of the most fun.
Making the she shed a project is a great plan and especially when you enlist the help of a partner, family, or friends.
Below are many workable ideas and tips that will help you build or create the she shed of your dreams.
ONE NOTE OF CAUTION: before you get started, check with your municipality for any restrictions and whether or not you’ll need permits.
Phase 1: If you have the space – Clean it out!
If you are like most, and you have an existing shed, the first thing you’ll need to do is empty it out. Start with a solid inventory of the contents and decide what to keep, what to sell, and what to simply toss out.
This is surprisingly challenging but discarding all of that accumulated and unused stuff is very satisfying.
Then, you’ll find yourself in one of two situations:
- You have a garage attached to the house and a shed. This means you have to determine if there is a better way to reorganize both to keep what is needed and discard what is not.
- You have only a shed or free‑standing garage ‑ is there enough space in your basement or a loft area to store what you really want?
Once you have a clear picture of the situation and can continue with the she shed project, you’ll have to sort out:
✓ Which things you absolutely want to keep,
✓ Which things you can sell in a garage sale,
✓ Those things you can give to charity to be reused, or which can be thrown out.
Phase 2: Create a plan
It is so exciting to get started, but don’t leap before looking. Now is the moment to make some plans.
As that old nugget of wisdom advises: If you want a successful project, put 90% of your energy into planning and 10% into execution.
Take some time to visualize your end result, and really crank up the imagination. After all, whatever you can dream up is usually possible. Yes, your dreaming may get a bit out of control, but there is always the reality of your budget to bring you back down to earth. Dreaming, however, is free, so use those visions to make some plans.
As we noted, you can dream up your ideal she shed, and then it is time to establish a budget. This is crucial as it helps you to understand what is within your reach. The budget and plans should include:
✓ A list of estimated costs
✓ A completion date or deadline
✓ The amount you have for “wiggle room” (which is usually 10%)
✓ Prepare for unexpected costs and little extras
This gives you a lot more clarity about the potential. Then it is time to roll up your sleeves and get started. First things first – measure.
Measure the building – Inside and outside
Knowing the dimensions of the building lets you move forward with all of the steps needed and with a full understanding of the potential. Measure the:
- The height, width and depth, the location of beams or any other obstacles you need to account for during the transformation (ex.: wood or gas heating ducts).
- If you have a mini garage, based on the type of construction, is there useable storage space on the roof trusses?
- Determine if you need electricity and plumbing for your project? If they are already there, are there modifications that should be made?
Inspect the building
✓ Roof: is it in good shape?
✓ Insulation: how many seasons will you be using your she shed?
✓ Foundation (on concrete piers with lumber or a concrete slab): is it adequate for your plans?
You know all you need to know in order to refurbish the building and create a blank slate for the she shed, next is making it your own.
Phase 3: Creating that place of your own
The final phase is to personalize your space with design and décor. Below are some tips and tactics to help:
What is your architectural style?
Is your ideal structure a bungalow, a contemporary and sleek space, or a Victorian gem? It is possible that your main house may influence your choice of architecture for the she shed, as well as guiding the décor.
What are your colors and lighting needs?
For many, larger windows or even a skylight give the amount of natural light needed to make the space functional. Also, a fresh coat of paint, inside and out, will take the space a long way towards looking and feeling appealing.
White or pastels are very chic and look great with coordinating trim. Think of your need for reflected light, too.
Where can you save in the budget?
Is there any furnishing you may have around the house?
Perhaps you can hit the area’s flea markets or antique shops.
Think eclectic and Repurpose old items with an innovative eye.
The Outside, Too!
A small deck, porch or patio along with comfy chairs.
You could begin by planting some perennials or making an attached garden.
Don’t think of it as needing completion ASAP – it can take years to make a perfect space.
Think “Private Paradise”
Make your getaway reflect YOU, whether it be a seaside theme, shabby chic barn siding and lace, or a gardener’s haven.
Think of the furniture, too. Would you prefer a little sofa, a desk, or a chair to curl up?
Whatever makes you happy and relaxed.
Phase 4: Turn to Pinterest and other inspirations
You’ll find many places overflowing with images of she sheds, but Pinterest is king. Take time to explore its many options, and then head over to the HOUZZ site to see a lot of other great concepts and images.
Finally: Consider an all‑glass door
A great way to jazz up a shed or mini garage is to add a garage door. This allows you to easily open it up and get lots of fresh air and sunlight inside, and if you choose all‑glass garage doors (also called panoramic doors) from Garaga, you get good year‑round light and the option to keep things cozy all year long.
To complement its extruded aluminum California door, Garaga offers different aluminum frame colors and layouts, and many, many different types of glass, including: Clear, or for more privacy, Satin Grey, Satin Black, or Bronze or Blue tinted. 😍👌
And it is ideal for a she shed because this door can be as small as 4 feet wide by 6 ½ feet high.
Maybe it is a sectional garage door for you?
If you live in the area of Lewiston, don’t wait to contact us toll‑free at 207-784-0622. We will give you a detailed explanation of the room you’ll need to install a garage door in your she shed as well as a review of the sizes available. You can even install an electric door opener if you have the space for it.
We’ll send a quotation by email or you can meet us at our showroom to discuss your needs. If you decide to replace an existing garage door, our design centre lets you see before you choose, and our image gallery has many good ideas.
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