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According to experts, this small space has a big return.
It doesn't matter if you want to build a lady lounge, man cave, or a bonus space such as a home office or gym, one thing's for sure: you can achieve this dream with a DIY shed. These small abodes allow you to create more living space on a budget versus building an extension to your home or even adding on a carriage house. Although she shed devotees can attest to its mix of form and function, it turns out these smaller units can also up your home's value. New research from Zillow suggest homes with she sheds can sell for up to two percent more than expected. (That number might seem low, but depending on the price of your home, it can be thousands of dollars extra to pocket.) According to Amanda Pendleton, Zillow Home's trends expert, the surge of she sheds is a sign of the times.
"These spaces became a safe refuge away from all the activity happening inside the home," Pendleton says, noting that she sheds provided a respite during the height of the pandemic. "They have held their value post-pandemic because they add functional space and a bit of extra square footage to a property’s living area." While this data isn't demographic specific, Pendleton says that she sheds might be especially appealing to urban homeowners who want to make the most of their limited lot size. "These freestanding structures can add some square footage when space is tight, and offer a welcome escape for uninterrupted remote work or quiet moments away," she adds.
In addition to thinking through the architecture style and size of your she shed, it's important to find an option that fits comfortably in your yard without obstructing any views or walkways. Pendleton recommend opting for one with a design "wow" factor. "A shed is the most functional when it’s an appealing place to be, so ensure it has features that make it more comfortable such as windows or skylights that let in natural light, higher ceilings, and flooring," Pendleton says. Where to find said sheds though? We combed through the market to find a handful of stylish options that'll up your home's value, ahead. Best of all, these are all pre-designed options you don't have to build entirely from scratch. (Don't worry, you can thank us later.)
Anyone who has a more traditional property will find a lot to love about this classic option from Handy Home Products. Not only does this 120-square-foot space look like it was plucked from New England, but it's built with durable wood and galvanized steel hinges so it's built to last. Plus, the mix of arched gable vents as well as a mix of wall and large windows will provide plenty of ventilation.
At eight feet wide by eight feet deep, this option from Outdoor Living Today is one of the smaller options out there; however, it's a solid choice for avid gardeners. The cedar structure comes with a cute flower box, providing yet another opportunity to flex your green thumb. (Pro tip: On a particularly day, leave the top half of the 31-inch split door open for a gentle breeze.)
In case you didn't know: Costco sells various she sheds and many of them are on sale. Case in point: this DIY tiny house that offers 918 cubic feet of space. The assembly kit includes three operable windows, a transom side window, storage loft, two doors, two 10-foot shelves, and a floor kit. Although paint and shingles are not included, that just means you have more flexibility in designing your she shed. We suggest going with a bold paint hue like a bright yellow for summer.
Want to turn your she-shed into a super-sized statement? Look no further. Though this 467-cubic-foot option is on the pricier side, it's packed with thoughtful design details that make this small space feel homey. Take note of the artful, octagonal footprint and gorgeous red western cedar used throughout! Plus, did you notice the meticulously shingled roof, accompanying flower boxes, and a set of luxe double doors? Love.
If good lighting is a non-negotiable, you can't go wrong with this one from Canopia by Palram. In addition to two fully operational windows and an optional sunroof panel, this she shed has an entire wall with floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass door. It may not offer you the most privacy, but it will deliver prime views of nature.
Though many of the best she sheds on the market have a rustic flair, this option from Handy Home Products proves there's an option for minimalists, too. Admittedly, this unit isn't the most sun-drenched option out there. However—thanks to its neutral palette, angular roof, and discreet windows—it'll be a good match for midcentury residences.
At six feet wide by five feet deep, think of this pint-sized pad as a sound choice for anyone working with a smaller yard. (Unlike most of the she sheds on this list, which are made with wood, this one uses a resin that is both water- and UV-resistant.) While you can get a little bit of light through the shed's clerestory windows, we recommend leaving these double doors open on a warm summer day.
Though most pre-designed she sheds can help cut down on the cost and labor of building one from scratch, they can often cost a couple thousand dollars. For a budget-friendly alternative, look to this resin find from Patiowell. Not only is this choice just under $1,000, but it's also pretty easy to assemble. In fact, Patiowell claims that it's simplified "Kick It" installation process reduces the number of screws required by 35 percent.
Found: A she shed that is built to be enjoyed rain or shine. This eight-foot-by-eight-foot place boasts an angled roof with windows made high-performance thermoplastic that transmits up to 90 percent of visible light—all while filtering out harmful ultraviolet light. That said, we'd imagine these windows would be a cozy way to enjoy the pitter patter of a summertime shower.
Indoor and outdoor living beautifully join forces with this cute clubhouse, which is made with red western cedar. The 511-cubic-foot spot has two functional windows so you can stay cozy inside without feeling claustrophobic. Or, if you want to enjoy the beautiful day, you can take full advantage of the accompanying porch.
If you were blessed with a spacious backyard, you have our permission to go big with this structure from EZ-Fit Sheds. The generous 10-foot-by-14-foot unit comes with ventilation, two windows with shutters, a single door, and a set of double doors. Translation? It's perfect for anyone who is looking to have a little she shed soirée.
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