Bring Retreats to New Heights with She Sheds

Just in case you hear the word “shed” and think of a cramped, dark space relegated to rusty lawn tools and cardboard boxes, let us stop you right there.

Thanks to Erika Kotite’s new book, She Sheds: A Room of Your Own, you now have every reason to hear the word “shed” and picture airy, light-filled spaces designed for creativity, beauty, and reflection. She sheds are the new personalized retreat centers, customized to your individual style and located in your own yard. Join us as we visit some of the she sheds featured in this inspiring new book’s gallery, and find ideas for your very own getaway.

Curious about different styles of she sheds? Read our post What’s Your Shed Style.

Audrey’s Teahouse // Photo credit: Jerry Eschman

Audrey’s teahouse is a modern interpretation of an old Bali thatched structure. Using thoroughly modern materials and mortise-and-tenon construction, this wonderful little house anchors the entire yard. Architect Jerry Eschman used standard window sizes to cut down on costs.

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Modern Meets Historic // Photo credit: Dominic Bonuccelli

Made entirely with modern and eco-friendly materials, Meehan’s shed nevertheless reflects the spirit of her ninety-year-old home. It fits snugly within her small backyard and allows her the quiet and privacy she needs to run her business.

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The Literary Cabin // Photo credit: Ann Possis

Ann Possis’s rustic she shed was fashioned from an old tool shed. A local carpenter jacked it up and built a new foundation on piers; Possis reused as much of the old materials as she could. The result is a shed that feels at one with its surroundings.

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Recycled Greenhouse // Photo credit: Kim Snyder

Dog-ear fence boards nailed upside down create a whimsical scalloped pattern across the front gable of this she shed. Note the overhang of the roof extends out far enough to create a shelter over the front porch.

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Recycled Greenhouse // Photo credit: Kim Snyder

Two beautifully crafted full-size doors were salvaged and put together to create a wide entrance to this shed, which is used as a sewing room. Several large tables provide plenty of work surface for projects—and no one complains if the mess is left out to be worked on another day.

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Old-Fashioned Cottage // Photo credit: Pamela/flowerpatchgardens.com

Although measuring just 12×12 feet, the shed seems spacious because of the high, sloped ceiling. It is actually used for a number of crafting and art projects by the owner and has a large loft space for storage (after her daughter outgrew it as a reading nook). The wide French doors allow her to bring in furniture pieces that need restoration. Inside the cottage is the look of a little house that has been lived in for many years—beadboard walls and double-hung windows both contribute to the vintage cottage style. Vinyl flooring has the look of Victorian black-and-white tile. Freestanding furniture includes a handsome painted armoire in mint green and white.

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Create your very own hideaway right at home with She Sheds.

They’ve got their man caves, and it’s time for you to have a space of your own. She Sheds shows you how to create cozy getaways with inspiration from across the country. Start by defining the goal and purpose of your space. Will you use it for entertaining, crafting, or alone time? Then, use the gallery of over 100 photos as inspiration for your decor, paint colors, and landscaping. You’ll even find fun upcycling ideas to personalize your space. Get inspired, and get started on your very own tricked-out retreat!

Erika Kotite is an editor, writer, and content developer in both print and digital media. She was editor-in-chief of Romantic Homes and Victorian Homes for many years, bringing that experience to producing books for Sterling, Quarry, and Walter Foster. Some of her titles include, Felt Fashion: Couture Projects from Apparel to Accessories, Blogging for Bliss, and The Daily Book of Photography. Currently, Erika leads the Beauty Group at Bobit Business Media, overseeing multiple sites for nail artists and salon owners. Erika lives in Huntington Beach, California with her husband and three children.