Storage Shed Designs
It used to be that garden sheds were seen as simple storage buildings, located in an out of the way place in the garden. This is no longer the case; garden sheds are now seen as part of the family living space, taking the form of offices, play houses and exercise rooms, complete with light, heat and water. Using a shed design plan is a great way to add value, space and function to your house while at the same time not breaking the bank.
Should you use a design and construct a storage building yourself?
You have decided that a storage shed is just what you need to meet your families increasing need for more space. You think about purchasing a prebuilt shed or a kit from a local retailer, but is it the right option for you? Will a prebuilt shed have enough storage area and a suitable floor plan or will you be compromising? What will you do if you find that in order to get to your most used equipment you have to empty the shed to reach it?
Finding a design that meets your exact needs, or designing the blueprint yourself, will be both satisfying and in the long term will probably save you time and money. Good shed design plans are laid out in a way that means you don’t need to be an expert. In fact, some simpler designs require no woodworking knowledge at all as they provide lists of everything you will need in addition to giving step by step instructions.
How do you select a design?
Storage shed design plans range from simple storage buildings, to gazebo’s, to buildings made to look like houses, complete with siding and shingles. You may be really drawn towards an elaborate shed design, but stop and think. Do you have the budget for all the required materials? Do you have the skill to build it or the means to hire others to help? What about ongoing maintenance costs? Will your elaborate shed complement your house and any existing buildings?
Following a quality shed design plan you will have a structure that will last for years. Before committing to a design remember that it may still be around in a decade; will you still enjoy looking at it every day?
As you would with any large purchase, take time to look at several designs even if you think the first one you see is perfect. Shed design plans can be found on the internet and at DIY stores, some being free, others costing a few dollars. You want to build a shed that looks good, will be long lasting and adds to the value of your home.

