The latest in get-away-from-it-all spaces is the she-shed, a backyard retreat that's tailor-made for whiling away the weekend. And better yet, it's above ground. Here's how we twirled one up for summer:
The Exterior
Available in 24 colors, the customizable TUFF Shed Premier Tall Barn (shown here at 12 by 16 feet, available at the Home Depot) is far from your run-of-the-mill toolshed. To create a tranquil summery vibe, we chose "Lakefront" for the blue siding and "English Pinewood" for the green-gray trim and shutters—the latter of which we added to help the space feel less "shed" and more "retreat." And because rainy summer days always sound better with a metal roof, we opted for a galvanized style. Prices start at $2,000 for a 6- by 8-foot Premier Tall Barn; pricing includes delivery and installation.
Out front, a 36-inch galvanized fire ring is cheaper than most fire pits and complements the metal roof.
Outdoor Bar
Top a firewood rack from the Home Depot with a piece of wood and it'll double as a bar!
Reading Nook & Sleeping Loft
Summer afternoons were made for napping, right? The metal daybed offers ample room for curling up without encroaching on square footage. Above, a hand-tufted LS Slipcovers mattress in a classic blue ticking stripe creates a second spot for she-shed visitors to grab some shut-eye. (Ladder required!) For water-resistant (and spill-proof) flooring, we added click-lock (read: easy to install) tongue-and-groove vinyl. Finally, a stack of wicker picnic and fishing baskets offers hidden storage, and an oversize vintage American flag sets a festive and patriotic tone for backyard get-togethers.
Kitchenette
To equip the space for entertaining, we added a mini fridge and stocked an assortment of white-washed wooden crates with pantry and party essentials. Above, thin strips of stainless steel (affixed to a piece of plywood using spray adhesive) provide a sleek magnetic surface to tack up photos or postcards. A pair of brushed nickel pendant lights strung from the ceiling give the shed a homey feel and keep the countertops clear for food prep.
Entry Nook
A collection of grab-and-go sun hats adds texture to the room. Below, a galvanized steel bin anchors the space and keeps easy-to-misplace items (keys, anyone?) close at hand. Vintage finds (license plates, baskets, a first-aid kit) reinforce the casual, anything-goes vibe.
Laurren Welch is a freelance editor, writer, and creative who covers lifestyle, interiors, entertaining, fashion, and more. When she’s not under deadline, you can find her styling blooms over at Garden Party L.A., scouring thrift and antique stores for hidden gems, and reminding her boxer pup, Monster, that he’s a very good boy.
