Over the last few years the humble garden shed has been re-invented. Not only is it a place to store bikes and garden equipment, it's now a spare room, office or a garden retreat.
Middleaged dad has always yearned for his very own shed to potter in and do manly things and we would love a garden studio to work in. The shed offers the perfect home working environment, especially if you have a family. Near enough to know whats going on, but far enough away to keep your working environment separate from home.
There are many books and websites devoted to lovers of sheds and one of our favourites is the Shedworking blog, which claims to be 'the only daily updated guide to the lifestyles of shedworkers and those who work in shed like atmospheres.' It is a fascinating insight into sheds from around the world and has some really useful links if you are thinking of buying a shed.
Choosing a shed/outdoor room to suit you is almost as difficult as buying a house and can be almost as expensive, if you choose to go for the top of the range! Country cottage shabby chic, modern and stark, Gypsy caravan eclectic or futuristic bubble, the possibilities are endless.
Some of our favourites include Costwolds Shepherds Huts. Authentic shepherds huts restored to their former glory using carefully selected materials and traditional craftsmanship, they make the perfect retreat, spare bedroom or home office.
We also love the Shackup range created by former fashion designers, Wayne and Geraldine Hemingway.
'Sheds are one of those things that are joked about,' says Wayne Hemingway, 'and to many the concept of design and sheds going together sounds daft. But sheds have always been a part of my life. As a collector and hoarder they play a central role, without my sheds where would my collection of 60's deckchairs go? Where would my son's collection of original Chopper and Grifter bikes never see the light?'
The range includes three models and are very reasonably priced. The largest, 'eightbisix' is £699, the sixbifour, £469 and the handy bicycle storage, 'tridoorbikestore' is £289. Delivered flat packed they require assembly they are sold exclusively at B&Q.
If you simply don't have the space or the money, you can always dream. Try some sheer escapism and read Men and Sheds, Huts, Havens and Hideaways and Shed Chic.
