Best Garden Sheds for Small Spaces

As a suburban homeowner, you understand the value of making the most out of every inch of your garden. Whether you need extra storage or a small workspace, a garden shed can be a fantastic solution, even in compact spaces. Let's explore the best garden sheds for small spaces and share some tips on how to choose and optimise your new shed.

Assessing Your Needs

Before diving into the world of garden sheds, it's essential to determine what you'll be using the shed for. Are you storing gardening tools, bicycles, or outdoor furniture? Perhaps you need a small workshop for your DIY projects. Knowing your primary use will help you choose the right size and design.

Measure Your Space: Make sure to measure the available space in your garden accurately. When I was setting up my first garden shed, I almost forgot to account for the door swing space - a rookie mistake that could have caused some real headaches (and embaresment !)

Types of Small Garden Sheds

Garden sheds come in various materials and styles, each with its pros and cons.

Materials

Wood:

• Pros: Aesthetically pleasing, customisable and often blends well with garden environments.
• Cons: Requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and insect damage.

Metal:

• Pros: Durable, fire-resistant, and often more secure.
• Cons: Can be prone to rust if not properly treated, and may not be as visually appealing.

Plastic:

• Pros: Low maintenance, resistant to rot and insects, lightweight, and easy to assemble.
• Cons: Less sturdy, may not look as attractive as wood or metal options.

Styles

Traditional:

• Classic look with apex roofs and wooden finishes.

Modern:

• Sleek designs with clean lines, often using metal or composite materials.

Multifunctional:

• Includes built-in shelves, workbenches, or even small verandas for added functionality.

Features to Look For

When choosing a garden shed for a small space, look for features that enhance functionality without taking up too much room.

Space-Efficient Design

Opt for sheds with built-in shelves, hooks and even fold-out workbenches. Vertical storage is your best friend in small spaces. I remember adding a pegboard to the back wall of my shed - it transformed the way I stored tools and kept everything within easy reach.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Ensure the shed is made from materials that can withstand the local weather conditions. Metal sheds should be treated for rust prevention and wooden sheds should be sealed to prevent rot. In both cases, you get what you pay for ! - Spend more on a treatment and it is likely to be of better quality and require re-application less often.

Ease of Assembly and Installation

Look for sheds that come with clear instructions and require minimal tools for assembly. DIY kits can be a great option if you're handy.

Security Features

Make sure your shed has robust locks and reinforced doors to keep your belongings safe. A friend of mine installed a motion sensor light outside his shed to deter potential thieves - simple yet effective!

Top Recommendations

Here are some of the best garden sheds for small spaces, each with unique features to meet different needs:

1. Log Cabin Kits :

   • Features: Customisable, strong, robust, aestically pleasing.
   • Price Range: £1200-£3000

2. Keter Manor Plastic Shed:

   • Features: Durable, low-maintenance, and includes built-in ventilation.
   • Price Range: £200-£300

3. Rowlinson Overlap Wooden Shed:

   • Features: Classic design, pressure-treated wood, and pre-assembled panels for easy installation.
   • Price Range: £250-£400

4. Duramax Metal Shed:

   • Features: Fire-retardant, rust-resistant, and includes a foundation kit.
   • Price Range: £300-£500

5. BillyOh Expert Tongue and Groove Shed:

   • Features: Premium finish, tongue and groove construction for added strength, and customisable options.
   • Price Range: £400-£600

Tips for Maximising Space

Maximising the space inside your shed is crucial, especially in smaller gardens.

Organising the Interior

• Vertical Storage: Use shelves and hooks to store items off the floor. A pegboard can be particularly handy for hanging tools.
• Multi-Functional Furniture: Consider fold-out workbenches or stackable storage bins.

Keeping it Decluttered

Regularly clean out your shed to avoid clutter. Only keep what you truly need. I make it a habit to do a shed clean-out every spring and autumn – it's amazing how much space you can free up with a bit of decluttering!

Installation and Maintenance

Installation Guide

1. Prepare the Ground: Ensure the ground is level and firm. A concrete base or paving slabs are ideal.
2. Assemble the Shed: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. It's helpful to have an extra pair of hands.
3. Secure the Shed: Anchor your shed to the base to prevent it from tipping over in strong winds.

Maintenance Tips

• Wooden Sheds: Repaint or re-stain every couple of years to protect against the elements.
• Metal Sheds: Check for rust spots and treat them immediately.
• Plastic Sheds: Simply wash with soapy water to keep them looking fresh.

Customisation Ideas

Personalising your shed can make it feel like an extension of your home.

Paint and Decor

Choose colours that complement your garden. Add some decorative elements like outdoor lighting or window boxes. I painted my shed a soft sage green and added a few potted plants around it – now it’s a charming focal point in my garden.

Green Features

Consider adding a green roof with sedum plants or installing wall planters to maximise green space. Not only do these features look great, but they also help insulate your shed. (Do check the load baring capacity of the roof structure if considering this option)

Case Studies

Real-Life Examples

Emma’s Craft Shed: Emma transformed her small garden shed into a cosy craft space. She installed shelves for her supplies and painted the interior white to make it feel larger. "It’s my little escape," she says.

John’s Tool Shed: John needed a place for his gardening tools. He opted for a compact metal shed with built-in hooks and shelves. "It’s incredibly organised now, and everything is within reach," he shares.

Conclusion

Choosing the right garden shed for a small space can greatly enhance your garden's functionality and aesthetics. By considering your needs, selecting the appropriate materials and styles and optimising the interior, you can make the most of your garden shed. Happy gardening !