When you think of a storage shed, you may picture rakes, shovels, brooms, buckets, and maybe even a wheelbarrow inside the structure. Maybe you envision a shed with a riding lawnmower parked in one corner or a stack of plastic bins full of books, papers, or other items. But your shed can be a lot more than just a storage area. It can be a bonus room! Checkout some ideas for transforming your backyard shed into a bonus room.
A Retreat
Whether you call it a man cave, a she shed, or a retreat, your shed can be the perfect getaway spot when you need some relaxation time. After sweeping the dust out of your shed, put down a colorful area rug. You’ll be surprised at how much a simple rug can transform the look of your shed. Next, put your favorite easy chair into the shed. Hanging plants, framed prints, throw pillows, and a radio are other items that can make your shed comfier. The secret to decorating your retreat is to put all of your favorite things there so you’ll feel right at ease the moment you open the door.
A Children’s Playhouse
An unused shed makes a great setting for a children’s playhouse. Your children or grandchildren can put posters on the walls and bring in a few beanbag chairs to sit on. A gathering of colorful milk crates can serve as the perfect table for games, reading, or playing music. I suggest getting a little cabinet where the kids can put their favorite snacks, such as crackers, chips, raisins, etc. Be sure to keep the snacks in sealed sandwich bags or small plastic containers to prevent bugs from getting at them. The best thing about a shed playhouse is that you can keep an eye on your little ones while they’re having a good time.
A Guest Room
An unused shed can be transformed into an informal guest room. Put down a thick area rug so your guest can walk around the shed barefoot. Try to find a bed that is appropriate for the dimensions of your shed. A daybed could be used as a bed at night and a sofa during the day. Put up a mirror featuring an ornate frame as well as some artwork to help beautify the walls of your shed. Throw a soft comforter and pillows on the bed and your guests will feel cozy in your bonus room!
A Pub
Making your shed into a pub doesn’t mean you have to serve alcohol. You can serve any refreshments you want. A miniature refrigerator would be a great investment for your shed-turned-pub. Try stringing some LED lights around the windows of your shed to make your mini-parties more inviting. Get a CD player and put it in one corner of your shed so you can enjoy some music while you’re serving soda, punch, and other refreshments to your friends. Get a few folding chairs, and use an old crate for a table. Your new pub is sure to be the hit of the neighborhood!
Use your imagination and get to work transforming your shed into a fabulous bonus room. Thanks for reading! – Alan
