Transforming your shed and making it into more of a functional space can seem like a bit of an ordeal. However, giving it a makeover is actually more straightforward than you might think. It just requires having the right strategy and systems in place.

Even if your shed is completely full of stuff, there's no reason why you can't give it a good renovation and then reimagine the entire space to fit around your needs. 

Here's what we recommend doing: 

Add something personal to it.

One of the problems with regular sheds is that they can seem so boring, but when you think about it, it is just an outbuilding or an extra space adjoining your property, therefore it can be just as welcoming and unique as anywhere else in your home. You don't have to just neglect it because it's called “the shed.”

Personalised items you could add to your shed include:

• Things like green plant pots

• Hanging signs

• Wreaths on the door

• Propped up tools outside

• Painted murals

• Awnings

• Seating areas

• Windows

Once you have these personalisations in place, you'll begin to see your shed in a different light. All of a sudden, it will be less of a functional space and more something you can use to make your home feel more welcoming. 

Insulation

We'd also recommend using as much insulation as you can in your shed. The problem for most people is that their sheds are simply too cold to use in winter, the temperatures are far too low.

However, they can be improved by adding proper ventilation. Including this reduces the risk of moisture build-up and helps you retain more heat. Then you could add a small electric circuit and a space heater so that your shed will be warm throughout the year, no matter when you want to use it. 

Once your shed is more comfortable, you'll find that you spend more time in it, you'll enjoy your hobbies more, and be able to get on with household DIY tasks. 

Landscaping the base

Landscaping the base of your shed is also a great idea. All you need to do is expand it from the footprint of the shed to the surrounding areas to make the entire area more functional. For example, you could use it as a patio or have an area that flows from your patio into your shed more seamlessly.

On top of hardscaping, you also want to add more shrubs and flowers. If you can create a path that runs along to your shed that's also useful. Just make sure that you do something that you make your own. 

Make the interior cosy

Looking at your shed right now, you probably can't imagine it being cozy, but adding a few nice interior touches that you might expect in your main home can make all the difference.

For example, instead of leaving the wood bare on the inside, add some light paint. Instead of using the leaving wood on the floor, add some rugs or some seating if you have room.

Obviously, how you approach this will depend on the start of your shed. If it's purely a functional shed for tools, then don't bother. But if it's somewhere that you want to turn into a summer house, then try it out and see if it makes a difference. Adding soft furnishings, cushions, blankets, and throws can make an enormous difference to how you feel when you're inside. 

Use self-storage to remove clutter

If you can't get into a shed because there's so much clutter, then consider using self storage. Temporarily moving everything out gives you more room to breathe and allows you to plan the space better.

Plus, if you really don't have room for items on your property, you can keep them at a self-storage facility indefinitely. You don't necessarily have to throw them out if you think you'll need them in the future. 

Once your shed is completely clear from anything that might be on the inside, then get on with planning. Think about how you could use your space. For example, could you improve interior organization by adding shelves or mounting hooks?

Could you also include a sturdy bench that you can use for crafting or planting projects? It's entirely up to you how you do it. 

Correct the structure

One of the first things you'll want to do when you makeover your shed is correct the structure. Dealing with any damage or leaks in the roof is essential if you want the transformation to be a success.

Many homeowners fail to check the foundations of their sheds. However, you want to get into the habit of doing this. If your shed is sat on top of solid concrete, check it isn't cracked and that plants aren't growing up between the cracks.

If your shed is mounted on bricks or other rocks, make sure that they aren't saturated with water and that they continue to provide the support that you need.

It's relatively easy to replace foundations on a shed because all you need to do is lift the shed off it and then re-do the base. Once the base is high quality, then your shed should last for a long time. 

Fix exterior painting

You might also want to explore whether you need to add a new layer of exterior-grade paint to your shed. Giving it a fresh lick of Dulux can make all the difference. We suggest opting for weather-resistant formulations. These can protect your shed during even the harshest of weathers, including bright summer sunshine, which causes a lot of shed paint peel. 

Once you do the painting on your shed, you'll notice that you improved the curb appeal of your property in general. You'll also notice that you want to spend more time in your garden pottering about. 

So there you have it - some of the shed makeover tips that we think are absolutely essential. Use these to ensure that your next project is a roaring success. 

Our writers like to find the latest trends in home decor. We launched the award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2015 and the luxury property and interior decor blog www.alltheprettyhomes.com in 2024 to cover all your interior design, travel and lifestyle inspiration needs.