Ideas on How to Make the Most of a Backyard Shed (2024)
Ideas on how to make the most of a backyard shed can take what otherwise might be an eyesore and turn it into something attractive and useful.
The outdoor space of a backyard storage shed can be used for a lot of different things. You can be practical and use it to store your lawn equipment, power tools, and garden tools. You could use it as a potting shed and put your potting bench inside as a place to work with your plantings and keep everything organized. Or, it’s a great way to have some fun and create your own outdoor oasis and a place for entertaining as an extension of your home. A home office in the spring, summer, and fall is also an option. But whatever you have and no matter the size, use the additional space, spend a little time, and make sure you get the most out of your backyard shed. You have the extra space, so have some fun with it.
Here is one example of what a friend of mine did with her backyard shed
I’m sharing the outdoor shed of an Instagram friend, Karin Sullivan. Karin makes the most of her backyard shed and recently made it into a bar!
@the.sullivan.home
I’ve been following Karin on Instagram for quite a few years and love her style and how she changes her home through the seasons with small, thoughtful touches that are entirely doable and budget-friendly. So when it came time for a post on refreshing your home for summer, Karin’s home and her backyard shed came to mind immediately! She’s made it into a very functional space.
Painting the shed black to complement the landscaping bed
A fresh coat of paint makes everything look better. I love how the black shed and wood siding complement the garden area and become a beautiful focal point of the yard.
The garden and outdoor area are the perfect backdrop for the shed
I may have discovered Karin when she first posted her new shed. It’s black, so you know me, and black paint! I have loved seeing how she has transformed this little shed over the years to suit the needs of her family. At one point, when her daughter was graduating, she made it into an art gallery. They hosted a party, and guests could view her art in the “shed.” The natural light provided a great place to showcase the art. Isn’t that so cool?
“If you build it, they will come.”
Karin says she is happiest when she has a house full of her kids and friends. For this summer, she has converted it into a bar shed! Inside, it has the feeling of a lofted barn. I also love the natural window boxes and flowers. As you can see, Karin loves to entertain!
How big (or small) is the shed?
I guess it’s how you look at it! Karin said. The floor space is about 12′ x 10′, and there was a moment when her husband, who built the shed, had the idea of using it for tool storage. You know, to store the lawn mower, gardening tools, and other equipment. But Karin had other ideas! She used peel-and-stick floors in a fun, bold pattern on the floor and decorated every square inch. She used a pendant like this one from Serena & Lily or maybe this one from the World Market. Bar stools are similar to these.
When do you use the shed most?
Karin says she loves being outdoors. She does all of her own yard work, from mowing to weeding! I asked Karin about her favorite DIY project, and she said, “it’s all DIY!” If she can dream something up, her husband can build it. She says they use the shed mostly in the spring-summer and fall, but they have been known to use it in the winter months when they have a fire going in the firepit. Doesn’t that sound cozy and fun?
Where do you shop for all your home decor?
Karin says she shops everywhere from Home Goods to Pottery Barn, always searching for a bargain! She says her two favorite spots where she can never leave empty-handed are Nest in Mystic, CT, and The Wish Basket in Newburyport, MA.
She uses the shed in fall and at Christmas time and includes seasonal items for decoration!
Get Karin’s look
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I love this so much ! Such a happy space. Thanks for sharing it with us.
What a great idea, especially for summer! Love the dark exterior color too. Now I want a shed!
Annie I love this so much. What a darling shed she created. I love both outside and in! The flower boxes !! Great idea for parties and a seasonal touch. I will follow Karen now. Just love how you connect with people and find talented people. I wish I had a spot for a shed too.
Thanks, Kim! She’s so sweet, and although we have yet to meet in person, I am sure we will one day!
When you sent me this photo it stopped me in my tracks. I thought how cool Annie did this on the sly without telling us. It so looks like you. I can see why you and Karin are friends. This is beyond creative. You have the most talented friends!
What a darling … and stylist … shed! Her flower boxes! And I adore her pendant. I love everything so much … thanks for sharing Karin’s talents with us! xo
SO MANY ADVERTS zooming all over the page, it’s SO annoying. I don’t know how anyone could enjoy reading this without going crazy.
Hi Marlene,
I am so sorry! I will look into it to see if something has changed. Ad revenue is an essential source of money for my business, but I understand your frustration from a user experience. Thank you for taking the time to let me know!
Annie
Now I want a shed! This is so cute.
What color black did you use on the exterior wall please?
Hi Theresa- It is Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black stain. We love it!
I am preparing to paint a shed black this weekend and prefer the matte finish but it’s not weather resistant what sheen did u use.
Hi Andrea, You will want to use an outdoor stain or paint. Good luck with your weekend project!
so creative!
do you have a source for the outdoor chairs?
So timely! Love the shed. This year I turn 75. My present is a shed that will be 2 years in the making. Removing 7 trees, dismantling three stone terraces, regrading area . Big mess!!! Last fall the deck was built. This spring my contractor started the Japanese tea house inspired shed. Like your friend l saw the interior white. My builder has created a post and beam red cedar beauty. Natural it will be!
The shingles go on next week!!! Three sides and porch are done. He’s constructing the front sections in his shop. He summers in Colorado so I have to be patient. It will be an organized tool shed but also just to look beautiful in my garden. It will be tricorn black on the exterior. It’s been exhausting and complex. But fun. Can’t wait!!!