Upgrade Your Garden Shed into a Mini Escape Space

It is very common for your garden shed to be a complete magnet for clutter and half-used paint tins, but that doesn't mean you can’t completely revitalise it into something brand new.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful garden office, a creative studio for photography or filmmaking, a reading hideaway, or even just a cosy spare room, your old shed or garage can very easily be transformed into just that.

Here’s how to turn your shed or garage into something completely new.

Why Upgrade an Outbuilding?

Space is paramount in the modern day, and with so many people working from home and needing more space around the house, people are now looking to the outdoors. Converting a shed or garage essentially gives you another room without the need to alter any of the existing structure of your home, which would be costly and hard to manage.

Many homeowners are using converted outbuildings for things like office space and getaways, and it doesn't need to break the bank.

Start with a Clear Purpose

Before you do anything, take some time to think and plan what you want from your space. For example, if you want to turn it into a home office, you will need to think about power sources, good lighting and soundproofing.

If you want to use it as a spare guest bedroom, you’ll have to consider things like insulation and security - maybe even a small toilet. For reading nooks and hideaways, you’ll need somewhere comfortable to relax, good insulation for the walls and plenty of bookcases!

Knowing how you want to use the space from the outset will make it easier to plan the right upgrades, and it will also help you figure out whether you need things like planning permission, heating or insulation.

Assess the Building’s Condition

Next up on the agenda: review the current state of your shed or garage. Ask yourself:

• Is the roof in good condition?
• Are the floors structurally sound, or do they need replacing?
• Are there any signs of damp or leaks?
• If it’s a wooden shed, does it feel structurally sound for adverse weather?

These are just a few of the many questions you should ask yourself to review the condition of your space. However, don’t panic if your structure isn’t in perfect condition, as this is usually the case. A local builder will be able to carry out repairs and improvements like roof repairs or window replacements.

Many tradespeople also specialise in upgrading or rebuilding sheds and outbuildings, so you don’t need to start from scratch to create something perfect.

Insulate and Weatherproof

If you’re planning on using your space 365 days a year, you will need to make sure it is comfortable for every season, and you can do this by installing some proper insulation. The truth is that most sheds and outhouses aren't suited to cold weather as they are not great at retaining heat. Similarly, they can become unbearably hot in the summer, again due to a lack of reflective insulation.

Insulating the walls, roof and floor of your shed will improve these issues tenfold, and modern insulation products are geared directly at sheds and for DIY’ers.

Rigid foam boards, insulation wool, or even recycled materials can help regulate temperature, and you can finish the inside with plasterboard or wood cladding for a polished look. Don’t forget to seal up any draughty gaps or add ventilation to keep air flowing and prevent condensation or mould.

It’s also worth considering upgrading the windows and doors. Swapping single-glazed panels for double glazing and installing a secure, insulated door will make your new space feel much more like an internal room that is just situated away from the main building.

Add Power, Lighting and Connectivity

If you plan on using your new escape for work or creativity, you will almost definitely need a power source. In fact, if you plan on inhabiting the space at all, you will more than likely need at least one plug socket.

When it comes to electrical work, you simply don’t have any other option than to call in a professional electrician to complete the work. It is too dangerous to try and attempt this as a DIY project for your own safety and that of anyone who will use the space.

Once you have power in place, you can install proper lighting, sockets for devices, and even small appliances. If you’re planning to use the space as a home office or studio, you may also want to add Wi-Fi connectivity, which will most likely be in the form of a Wi-Fi extender that boosts the connection from your home connection further to where your shed is.

Finish the Interior to Match Your Vision

Once you have secured all of the structural, insulation and utility aspects of the project, it's time to kit out your interior exactly the way you want it. The beauty of decorating a garden escape is that it is completely separate from your home, meaning you don’t need to opt for complimentary designs and decors - in other words, get creative!

Many people choose to line the walls with tongue-and-groove panelling or plasterboard, and from here, you can paint your preferred colours. Flooring options are usually kept simple with things like laminate or vinyl, as both are cost-effective and practical, not to mention easy to clean.

Add your own style with soft furnishings, rugs, and any accessories you need, such as a comfortable armchair, a desk or even a sofa bed.

What About Planning Permission?

In the majority of cases, planning permission will not be required for your shed as it will fall under permitted development rights, providing it is not higher than 2.5 metres and doesn't take up more than half of your outdoor space. That being said, if you live in a listed building or a conservation area, you should always double-check with your local authority just to be on the safe side.

Make It Your Own

Ultimately, the beauty of converting a shed, garage or garden building lies in its flexibility and versatility.

It doesn't need to be complicated or expensive, as it is simply what you want it to be. Even if it is just a comfortable place to sit, have a coffee and read a book, it will be worth its weight in gold.

From electricians and carpenters to builders and handypeople, MyJobQuote connects you with trusted, local tradespeople who can help you bring your garden hideaway to life.

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