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Aug 27, 2023

Shed ideas: 15 ways to transform your outdoor storage solution into a fabulous feature for your plot

Looking for an update to your garden storage? Then these shed ideas are exactly

Looking for an update to your garden storage? Then these shed ideas are exactly what you need. For not only is the humble shed a fantastic way to keep your plot organised, but it can also be a stunning feature point.

Of course, sheds are primarily for keeping a plot free of clutter and all your tools safe and dry. And if you've recently treated yourself to a BBQ, pizza oven, or some stylish garden furniture, then you'll want somewhere to safely stash them when the weather turns temperamental. But that's not all that sheds can offer – they can also be used for garden jobs such as potting up seedlings, or simply as a place to relax with a good book.

This guide will inspire you when it comes to the all-important styling. From fabulous she sheds, to window boxes and living roofs, keep reading for lots of ideas for plots of all sizes.

BY HOLLY CROSSLEY

Shutters, a scalloped roof and a lick of pastel paint – if you think sheds can be an eyesore, this example will surely show you otherwise. Adorable stepping stones make a lovely addition to our garden path too.

You see, a shed definitely doesn't have to be a ramshackle structure crammed at the bottom of the plot. With a simple makeover and some pretty details, it can become a beautiful focal point.

Whether it's perfectly curated inside or an explosive jumble of pots and tools is another matter. But we think if you have a shed that looks this good, you'll want to keep the inside in tip-top order, too. You could even turn it into a cosy garden retreat, decked out with comfy seating and cushions.

A chic metal shed is a perfect addition if you love our modern gardens. Choose a sleek design such as the example above and it will sit beautifully amongst your plot. Plus, not only will it add to a contemporary vibe, but it will also be strong and sturdy against the elements.

A light grey colour feels stylish rather than imposing, and windows along the top will allow natural light to filter through, helping you see what's what inside. Soften with ornamental grasses and minimal outdoor furniture to complete the look.

We're not all blessed with massive gardens, complete with a spacious patio or one of our decking. So, if all you have is a tiny garden or courtyard with a few colourful pots, then a mini lean-to shed is a great option.

Big enough to store wellies and a few garden tools, it slots neatly against a wall and won't dominate the space. This one shown above has a handy shelf and a good sized storage section underneath, plus there's a lockable door to keep everything secure.

Sometimes a good wooden shed is beautiful enough without having to do much to it. Timber panels can be treated with a wood preserver to add a layer of protection from rot, water and woodworm whilst letting the natural colouring shine through. It's a good job for a sunny weekend, but if you're short on time, look for spray versions (try Ronseal).

Topped with a shingle roof, this is a gorgeous example of a shed that's stylish yet subtle and it works beautifully with cottage garden ideas. Complete the traditional look with a stable door and quaint windows, and place at the end of a sweeping gravel pathway lined with alpine borders.

It's always good to encourage pollinators to your garden as well as other wildlife. So why not use the sides of your shed to hang an assortment of bee boxes, bug hotels, or bird nesting boxes?

Not only will it help to provide them with shelter from predators, but it will give your plot a new lease of life.

Give your shed a shepherd's hut vibe by combining a curved top, corrugated sides and a stable door.

This classic type of cladding is a great option if you're after something inexpensive and low-maintenance for your shed. Its slightly industrial look is softened by the doorway, which, due to its halfway divide, is wonderfully versatile as well as attractive. Perfect for letting in a breath of fresh air whilst keeping pets or little ones out.

We love the steps too – a great place to perch with a morning cuppa.

If you're lucky enough to have an open fire indoors, or perhaps a best fire pit, then you will need somewhere to store your logs as well as your other garden bits and bobs.

This ingenious design will satisfy all your garden storage needs in one, by keeping tools dry and logs neatly stacked. We love the rustic charm it brings to a plot.

If your garden is on the small size and you haven't got room for a shed with a large floor area, look out for more compact designs that still offer plenty of head height. This will ensure you have room to fit in folding garden furniture and tall garden tools, such as the best hedge trimmer and maybe even the best pressure washer.

Opt for designs made from pressure treated timber – they will be fully protected against rotting.

If your larger-sized shed is looking bulky and out-of-place, then this tip is for you. For a simple lick of brightly coloured paint can be all it takes to turn a lacklustre structure into a stunning addition to your plot.

Opt for a colour that will complement the rest of your garden's theme. We love the beautiful blue colour of this one pictured above – not only does it look stunning alongside the neighbouring Agapanthus, but it will be sure to brighten up even a dull, cloudy day.

We love a window box to liven up an exterior, so adding one to a shed is a great idea for an instant update. Fill with your favourites, from miniature evergreens and jolly pansies to sweet-smelling petunias – it's a great excuse to add extra plants to your plot.

Painting your shed black or dark grey will help your treasured plants pop against the contrasting darker backdrop. Meanwhile, a small light will add an extra dose of charm, as well as being practical.

Got lots of large items to store? Then you'll soon appreciate the benefits of having double doors to access your garden shed. It means you'll be able to get your wheelbarrow and bulky lawn mower in and out without any issues.

Plus, by opting for a bigger design, there will even be space to set up a nifty potting area. And, picking a design with windows means you'll get the bonus of plenty of natural light inside, too.

Good intentions aside, the interiors of sheds can easily get out of hand. After all, unless they're primarily being used as a luxurious she shed, they're generally seen as a practical place full of tools. Inevitably, this comes hand-in-hand with a build up of mud, bits of stray gravel, old plastic plots, and other miscellaneous objects accumulating over time.

So, why not put a few hours aside to give your shed a proper sort out? Start by giving it a sweep, and throw away or upcycle any rubbish.

Then, to help reduce the clutter, make the most of shelves (or add some in). Even a small shed can benefit from good use of vertical space. You can finally give your pots, brushes, balls of string, and seed packets a proper place. It's great to get organised ready for the new growing season and will make your life much easier in the long run.

If you're after a greenhouse and a shed, then this clever idea is a perfect solution. By combining the two in a single structure, all your tools and seedlings can be kept in one place for easy access.

So, you can really bed in on colder days and crack on with your garden jobs without having to trudge back and forth across the garden. You could add a cold frame too, for extra space for tender plants.

This fantastic design is a great example of how to make the most of a smaller space.

Its fully waterproof roof is topped with a planter, ready to be filled with all your favourite plants or herbs. It's a brilliant option for those who would love a raised bed but simply don't have the room.

Finished with a sturdy lock, guttering and downpipe, this shed is a choice that any small-space or urban gardener will love.

Want to get your new garden shed up and running fast? Opt for a simple and inexpensive buy that you can assemble yourself and you'll be sorted before you know it.

The one above may only measure 6ft x 4ft but as it's made from smaller sections it's easier to handle for quick and easy assembly – always a bonus. The overlap design aids rain and water run-off. Plus, it has a pressure treated solid timber floor to cope with heavier items like the best lawn mower and bags of compost.

On the lookout for shed ideas? Take a look at our favourite ways to give your storage solution a fresh new look