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No matter the size of your home, you’ve probably found yourself wishing you had more room for your hobbies. While remodeling a house to increase your space is an option, it’s also costly. But what if there was a way to reap the benefits of extra square footage without tearing down walls in your home? The answer is simple – use a storage shed. Whether you’re considering installing a new backyard shed or have one already, the possibilities are endless. We’ve teamed up with experts from Beverly Hills, CA, to Sarasota, FL, for some creative storage shed ideas to help you maximize your backyard space.

white storage shed

1) Pursue your side hustle in a storage shed

A storage shed can be more than just a tiny house for your lawnmower. A shed is like a blank canvas, and the only restriction for your shed ideas is your imagination. 

“An outdoor shed is a perfect place to explore your favorite hobby or side hustle, and you can use the space to get the most out of your shed, says ShedHub. “The ultimate goal is to use the space it provides to help organize and bring peace into your life, rather than stress and piles of unwanted clutter.”

2) Transform your shed into a pool house

​With summer just around the corner, it’s crucial to find ways to stay cool. Whether you already have a swimming pool or are thinking of installing one, turning a small shed into a pool house is a great way to get the most out of your outdoor space. 

Pro tip: “With a shed posed as an epic pool house, putting away pool toys is a breeze once your day of fun in the sun is over. A shed pool house offers a comfortable and easily accessible changing room for you and your guests. Complete your pool house experience by creating a backyard oasis and adding a pergola or a retractable shade canopy to provide extra coverage for a relaxing afternoon nap in your outdoor space.” – GEMCO

laptop on table

3) Create a home office in your shed

Working from home has become increasingly common over the last few years. Having a dedicated workspace makes it easier to stay organized while working remotely. Instead of working from your dining table, why not turn an outdoor shed into a home office? 

Pro tip: “Creating new space is one of the best ways to improve your quality of living. A backyard office studio opens a new level of possibility. It enables privacy and productivity in a space that feels like an extension of your home.” – Cerca Sheds

4) Transform your storage shed into a man cave/she-shed

Everybody needs a place to relax and rejuvenate. What better place to do that than your personal man cave or she-shed. A shed doesn’t have to be a functional space for storing tools. This is an excellent storage shed idea to create the perfect getaway space while surrounded by all of your favorite things. Feel free to decorate, incorporate comfy furniture, and add a mini-fridge filled with your beverage of choice to maximize your me-time. 

5) Convert your storage shed into a home gym

If you’re trying to get in the best shape of your life from the comfort of your home but lack the space, this storage shed idea can solve that problem. The perfect home gym doesn’t have to be expensive or take up valuable space in your house. You can get a full-body workout in a backyard shed with essential equipment like dumbbells and resistance bands. You can also store sports equipment like skis and snowboards that you only use during winter.

home gym shed idea

6) Use a storage shed to create a gamer’s paradise

If you’re looking for a dedicated area to game, this storage shed idea is for you. Turning your storage shed into a gaming room is a relatively easy project that will provide you with some privacy to stay in the zone.

7) Transform your storage space into a rustic garden shed

A storage shed can be the perfect place to store garden tools and create a whimsical garden or greenhouse. Whether you want a traditional garden shed or something more unique, you only need a small space to make it happen. Add a potting bench or table for your small potted plants and flower boxes, then watch them grow. Be sure to install plenty of windows so your greenery gets abundant light. 

Bonus tips:

Using a storage shed as an extra room? Use spray foam insulation to retain heat

An essential step in any outdoor storage shed project is making sure the space is comfortable in any weather. Adding insulation is a great way to keep the elements out of your shed. 

Pro Tip: “Use spray foam insulation for the entire body of the shed. This helps to keep the temperature consistent on hot or cold days and maintains a cozy, comfortable space. High ceilings for loft or storage are also a bonus.”  – Start To Finish Drafting and Design

Leverage technology to design your dream shed

Most storage sheds follow a similar layout. However, storage sheds don’t have to be one-size-fits-all. If you’re looking to achieve a unique design that’s more than just four walls, a roof, and a door, turn to the professionals to design your dream shed. 

Pro tip: “To get the most out of a storage shed, work with a company that allows you to create a custom-built backyard building with an online 3D designer. This is a cool idea if you want to create a building that matches your exact needs regarding size, colors, and interior configurations, including shelves, lofts, and workbenches. Leveraging technology to see your ideal shed before it arrives on your property is a fantastic way to create more space.” – IdeaRoom

Utilize shelves, cabinets, and tubs to stay organized

While it’s fun to get creative, some might prefer a more functional shed. If that’s the case, this storage shed idea is for you. Rather than having piles of miscellaneous tools blocking your garage door, organizing them in a storage shed will free up space and make things easier to find. 

Pro tip: “Using shelves, cabinets, and tubs is the best way to tidy and organize the different items in your storage shed. The only limits are your imagination, from keeping all your tools in plastic tubs, installing a tool hanger for long-handled items, or using jars to store nails and screws. Repurposing old unused bookshelves is one of the more creative options that will save you money and keep your power tools, supplies, and garden essentials well-organized.” – Urban Sheds

This post first appeared on Redfin.com. To see the original, click here.