In the midst of hectic lifestyles, more women are seeking a peaceful retreat without having to leave their property. Think of it as a female haven or woman cave that’s separate from the house. A she shed is simply an outbuilding that has been converted into a place for a woman to hang out and enjoy privacy. She sheds come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes–anywhere from 6 feet x 6 feet to 12 feet x 20 feet
Women can transform these
sanctuaries into whatever they want. How does a woman (in her busy life) go about
creating a place that is a calm oasis for her? Whether there’s a neglected
potting shed in the backyard, or you want to build
your own she shed from the ground up, it’s a goal that can be achieved.
A traditional use for a she shed is gardening and potting. More and more women are eyeing these compact spaces for their businesses–jewelry making, hair salons, interior design, professional services and pottery making. Other uses include art and painting; sewing and crafts; reading and writing; meditation and yoga; entertaining and outdoor bar; poolside cabana; and many more. The shed extends a woman’s life out into her back yard in many wonderful ways.
There are all kinds of ways to budget a she shed. The least expensive option is rehabbing an old shed you already own, so long as the bones of the structure are good. Another low-cost option is to spend time gathering the materials you need, such as lumber, windows and doors, then asking handy friends and family to help you build it. What we do at She Shed Living is offer a mid-level priced shed that gives each woman the chance to design it herself. Our sheds run about $125 per square foot and up, depending on the materials and size. 5. Will I need permits?
Certain cities and neighborhoods
have building restrictions, so make sure you have the proper permits before
building your she shed. Some codes may point out size, color, and where you
place the shed. If you opt for electricity, you may also need a permit for
electrical wiring.
You may consider running an
extension cord from your house to your shed since it’s the easiest option.
However, you’re putting yourself at risk, especially if inclement weather
occurs. Nonetheless, putting electricity
in your she shed can help you to optimize your space
even further. Not only can you use the electricity to cool your sanctuary via
fans or an air conditioner, but you can put a laptop out there, connect your
phone, or play music. Even if you deem yourself handy, consider hiring a
professional to do this task. The professional electrician can make sure your
space is up to code and can install the outlets correctly.
Paint the inside and outside of your
she shed to help define its new purpose. Although you may find many she sheds
with white walls, since this helps to illuminate the walls during the day, you
want the shed to best represent you and what’s important to you. Don’t be
afraid to throw a little color on the walls. Use a paint and primer in one for
both the walls and ceiling. Since the floors experience a lot of foot traffic,
prime the area first and then use floor paint. Add an accent wall or apply
fabric to the walls. Be bolder than you would in your own home since this is a
retreat specifically for you.
Check out local flea markets and
antique shops to find trinkets for your walls, particularly if you’re seeking a
relaxed and cozy feel. You’re likely to find hidden treasures at these
locations, and you won’t need to spend a fortune. Most she sheds feature
comfort over functionality, so get creative and find items that make you feel
stress-free.
Now that you have your mini retreat
customized, make sure you find the time to use it. Leave your responsibilities
and cares outside, and relax and spend some quality time in your very own she
shed.
“When we, as young women, are given the space to read, the act becomes a happy, private corner we can return to for the rest of our lives. We develop this love of reading by turning to stories that speak to the most special, secret parts of us.” (Lena Dunham)[i]
[i] Sources used:
“8 Easy Tips for Creating Your Very Own
Backyard She Shed”
·
by Rebecca Shinners
·
10 Tips for Creating Your Very Own “She Shed” by Sophie Ng
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