Shed Plans

The Concept

The concept of building a shed house is very intriguing to me. I have always liked the idea of using small spaces for specific things. Building a shed to be used as a small house seems like a unique use for a shed.

When I say build a shed house, I don’t intend an eight-by-ten storage shed to be your home. My vision is for a small outbuilding to be usable for some purpose that requires finishing. Think guest house, office, game room… the list goes on.

Purpose

What’s the point, you might ask. Building a guest room or addition to your house is very involved. You may need an architect, contractor, foundation, permits and inspections. I didn’t mention the cost and mess you create when doing an addition. An attached addition is a huge undertaking and an inconvenience.

A detached “shed house”, however, cuts out many of these steps. You might still have to get a permit for some of the wiring or plumbing, but you shouldn’t have near the headache.

I first thought of this concept when my company was working on a campground. They had twenty or so small cabins that were delivered and set on blocks just like a mobile home.

Inside they were finished usually with just a bathroom and sleeping quarters. They worked as a neat little get away. I figured I could do something similar, only as a guest house on my own property. Since a standard foundation is not necessary thousands of dollars can be saved building this way.

How can I get my own shed house?

One great advantage of having a separate guest house is the privacy that it can afford to both you and your guests. You will have your own space and they will have theirs.

I mentioned the cost savings earlier. You can buy a shed from your local box store or you may have a local manufacturer/dealer. The price can range from under one thousand dollars to several thousands depending on the quality and size.

The biggest problem you will run into with these shed is that generally they are not big enough, not to mention quality. They can be finished out with insulation and drywall, but without room for a small bathroom I think it kind of defeats the purpose. The obvious answer to me is to build your own shed house!

What should your shed house have in it?

The things you should include in your shed house are fairly basic. You need a living and sleeping space. The same space can be used for both functions. A bed and two chairs do quite nicely, and a folding couch makes a good option as well.

You will want a small closet and bathroom to finish things off. I think a small shower and not a full bath works just fine.

The final amenity that I will suggest, is quite optional, a mini fridge and microwave. These can fit in about a three foot square area. Place the fridge under a small table or section of counter. This table will hold the microwave. To finish off the “kitchenette”, if you want to call it that, mount a single wall cabinet above the microwave for a little dry storage.

This layout will provide a livable guest suite for a very minimal cost. The best part is that you can build this all yourself. You might not think that this is something you can take on because of limited experience. With a good set of plans and directions you would be surprised at how easy it can be.

Other uses for your shed house

• Office
• Sewing room
• Game room
• Reading/righting getaway
• Use your imagination

Nice additions to your shed house

• A sink
• Fireplace
• Separate living and sleeping quarters
• Porch
• Access for a car