With 16% of the UK workforce reporting to work solely from home, the demand for inviting workspaces in one’s personal quarters has gone through the roof. You know the score: the work-life balance has never been more fragile, so it’s no wonder that people are jumping at the chance to convert their garden shed into an office.
Needless to say, converting a shed into office is one of the quickest, most efficient, and perhaps cheapest (if you already own an outbuilding) ways of creating an office space that keeps you firmly away from home distractions. Think of it as a productivity nook close to home, but not exactly part of it. Honestly, it can work wonders.
Ready to uncover the step-by-step process of garden shed office conversion? Our comprehensive guide has all angles covered and actionable advice you can take right now. Let’s get into it.
Preparing for your garden shed office conversion
Before we get into the meat of this tutorial, it’s worth stepping back and considering a few pivotal preparatory considerations.
Consider your office requirements
Before turning your shed into an office, take some time to think about your specific needs and preferences for your shed office. Consider factors such as the size of the shed, the number of people using the space, the type of work you’ll be doing, and any additional features you may require, such as storage or a separate meeting area.
Understanding these needs will help guide the rest of the conversion process and ensure that your shed office meets your expectations.
Get the planning permission sussed out
Before you dive into your shed conversion project, it’s essential to check whether you need planning permission from your local authority. Regulations regarding outbuildings vary depending on your location and the size and type of structure you’re planning to build or modify. Make sure to research the requirements and obtain any necessary permits before starting work to avoid any legal complications down the line.
Assess the condition of your existing shed
Already a shed owner? Evaluate the current state of the outbuilding to identify any repairs or maintenance tasks that need to be addressed before starting the conversion. Look for signs of damage, such as rotting wood, leaks, or pest infestations, and prioritise fixing these issues to ensure a sturdy and functional workspace. As you might imagine, it’s essential to start with a solid foundation to prevent future problems and prolong the life of your shed office.
Measure up the interior
Take accurate measurements of the interior space of your shed to help you plan the layout and design of your office. Consider factors such as the dimensions of the room, the location of windows and doors, and any obstacles or structural elements that may affect your layout choices. Having precise measurements will ensure that your furniture and equipment fit comfortably and that you make the most of the available space.
Design your workspace floorplan
Once you have a clear understanding of your shed’s dimensions and layout, start designing a floorplan for your office space. Consider how you want to arrange your furniture, storage units, and workstations to create a functional and efficient workspace.
Think about factors such as workflow, accessibility, and ergonomics to ensure that your design promotes productivity and comfort. Sketch out multiple layout options and choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
How to convert your shed into an office in 10 steps
It’s time to shed the hesitation and dive into the transformation process. Here’s how to convert your garden shed into an office in 10 straightforward steps:
1) Build, buy or upcycle your garden shed
Talk about shed types, measures for upcycling such as waterproofing the roof and building a shed
2) Ensure you windows provide ample natural light
Position windows strategically to allow plenty of natural light into your workspace. You can either install these in an existing shed or make sure to purchase one with wide windows. Good lighting can boost mood and productivity, so maximise the benefits of your shed’s potential.
3) Get your shed insulated
Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable working environment year-round. Insulate the walls, ceiling, and floor to regulate temperature and reduce noise disturbance. An easy way to do this is to opt for cladding with efficient thermal insulating properties.
4) Waterproof the roof
Prevent leaks and water damage by waterproofing your shed’s roof. This step is essential for protecting your equipment and furnishings from the elements.
5) Install practical flooring
Choose durable, easy-to-clean flooring that suits your office’s aesthetic and functional needs. Vinyl plank flooring is a popular choice for its affordability, durability, and low maintenance, but there are so many more options to choose from – so make sure to do your research!
6) Soundproof the walls
To create a quiet and conducive work environment, consider soundproofing the walls of your shed office. Install acoustic insulation materials such as soundproofing foam panels, mineral wool, or mass-loaded vinyl to reduce noise transmission and minimise distractions from outside noise.
When it comes to cladding types for soundproofing, there are several options to consider:
Timber cladding
Timber cladding offers a natural and aesthetically pleasing finish while providing some degree of sound insulation. Opt for thicker timber boards or consider double-layered cladding for improved soundproofing performance.
Composite cladding
Composite cladding combines wood fibres and recycled plastic to create a durable and low-maintenance exterior finish. It offers good thermal and acoustic insulation properties, making it an attractive option for soundproofing your shed office walls.
7) Sort out the electrics
Hire a professional electrician to wire your shed for electricity safely and efficiently; this isn’t something you should risk if you’re inexperienced. Ensure you have enough power outlets for your equipment and lighting fixtures, and place them in the most efficient locations.
8) Find the best heating solutions
Keep your shed office cosy and comfortable during the colder months with effective heating solutions. Consider options like electric radiators, underfloor heating, or even a wood stove for a rustic touch.
9) Decorate your space
Personalise your shed office with decor and furnishings that inspire creativity and productivity. Paint the walls in light, neutral colours to create an inviting atmosphere, and add touches of personality with artwork, plants, and textiles. This will help you settle into the day with positivity – exactly what you need early on a Monday morning!
10) Add your furnishings
Once the messy parts are completed, you can begin to furnish your office with ergonomic furniture that promotes comfort and functionality. Invest in a quality desk, chair, and storage solutions to optimise your workspace whilst keeping things stylish.
11) Kit out your shed office with secure locks
Ensure the security of your shed office by installing sturdy shed locks on doors and windows that protect your equipment and confidential documents reliably. If this is a concern and you’re yet to pick between the DIY and buyer’s route, rest assured that most security sheds are well-equipped to keep your work stuff safe come rain or shine.
12) Add a flourish to your office shed exterior
Enhance the curb appeal of your shed office by adding decorative elements or landscaping features to the exterior. Consider window boxes with blooming flowers, framing the approach by or installing outdoor lighting to create a welcoming and visually appealing entrance to your workspace.
It’s time to shed the hesitation
With these steps completed, you’ll have transformed your garden shed into a fully functional and inviting office space. Embrace the potential of your newfound workspace and enjoy the benefits of a dedicated area for productivity and creativity.
It’s time to make a cup of coffee or whichever productivity fuel suits you best, turn on your computer and seize the day!
