Living in a Shed: 13 People Who Actually Did It

We’ve all thought it when it comes time to pay rent or real estate taxes – “It would be so much simpler if I would just live in a shed!” Well, some folks did more than just think it…they actually took up living in a shed! Here are some of the most beautiful and creative shed living arrangements from around the world:

1. Saving Rent Through A Shed Conversion

Because of the looming costs of rent, this family decided that they would cut back on their life expenses drastically. How, you may ask? Take a shed and convert it into a home! Watch the whole video to see the before and after looks of the shed.

2. Home Depot Shed Conversion

Believe it or not, this family took a generic Home Depot shed and converted it into a home in which to live and relax. Through this video, you may receive some inspiration to add to your own life or advice to give to those who are searching for shed living opportunities.

3. “Shed and Breakfast” in New Zealand

Located on an organic sheep farm on New Zealand’s South Island, this shed is large enough for 8 people to live in it. David, the farmer who owns the shed, has converted it into a beautiful space with an open floor plan with plenty of views onto the wide New Zealand countryside. He’s opened it up to guests on Airbnb and will even let them try their hands at milking cows and shearing sheep!

4. Shed Vineyard Stay in Clare Valley, Australia

Living in a shed in the Clare Valley of Australia might be better than living in a house anywhere else! Designed and built by the resident artist, Andrew, the shed is located on a working vineyard. The unique wood and metal interior opens out onto a Mintaro slate patio, complete with a BBQ area and a pergola for shade.

5. “Shed and Breakfast” in Bristol

Yes, the same name as #3, but on a different continent! This has to be one of the most beautiful sheds in the entire United Kingdom. Built by Daisy and Jon Bass in the backyard of their home, they spent two years living in the shed while their house was being renovated. Now, they rent it out to guests visiting Bristol. Best of all, they not only make some extra income from folks living in their shed, but they also use it to host homeless youth from the city at various times throughout the year. The Bass’ shed was nominated for the “Shed of the Year” award in 2018.

6. Tool Shed Tiny House in Arkansas

At 144 sq. feet this guest house is perfect for two people (but not much more)! Somehow, this tiny space manages to include a full bath, a closet, and a kitchenette. This is a great example of how much customization is possible, even when living in a shed. As the listing says, though, “If two are staying here make sure you like each other A LOT!”

7. Shed Surrounded by a Magical Garden

What better way to sit and relax, then in a home surrounded by wildlife and gardens. When Mariryan and Heather designed their shed home, they ensured that their environmental ethics would be lived out through the aesthetics of their home – complete with a compost area to preserve the earth.

8. Hot Tub Shed in Chattanooga, Tennessee

The homesteading lifestyle can bring many things to mind…chickens roaming through the front lawn, flowers growing, and perhaps a few children racing around out front of the house. But have you ever considered that someone might live in shed home? If not, you’ll be in for an interesting treat through this short YouTube clip.

9. Tiny Shed in Indiana

This is pretty much the essence of living in a shed: a beautiful little building, perfectly fixed up to host guests with all the comfort of a hotel room. Dean & Nancy used an old, rustic-looking shed to create this little backyard retreat in the countryside near Fort Wayne, Indiana. Leaving the exterior of the building with its quaint, rough look, they added heat and AC and managed to fit a full-size bed into the shed as well. Seriously, this place is so beautiful!

10. Unlikely Retreat in Oswega, NY

With a hot tub, fireplace, and beautiful trail leading to this shed, you are sure to have a magical and relaxing stay. Although positioned in the middle of the city, this shed is blocked off from the buzz and bustle of the city, allowing you and your loved ones to enjoy a more natural adventure.

11. Affordable Housing Options

Finding the perfect home can seem to be a challenge. You’ll need to fit your budget yet get all of the additions and details that you’ve been desiring. And sometimes, you can’t have both. But somehow Nick was able to dream big and design an amazing tiny home through this shed.

12. Downtown Shed in Orlando, Florida

Bright and clean is the vibe of this backyard guesthouse. The vintage wood exterior is complemented on the inside with clean white shiplap paneling, kitchen fixtures, and subway tile. Gray tiling on the floor provides a beautiful contrast. While it’s technically a single room plus a bathroom, living in a shed like this would actually be quite nice.

13. Recycled Materials Shed in New South Wales

Let’s be honest, a building covered with rusty metal panels is not the first place many of us would think of sleeping. But if it’s finished out as wonderfully as this studio apartment in New South Wales, Australia, we might change our minds! Owners Michael & Mieke have created a wonderful little haven on the edge of Blue Mountains National Park. The design of this shed dwelling is much higher and more open than your typical shed, but it’s still very much a shed!

And there you are – some of the most genius living spaces created in tight quarters around the world! If you’re interested, you can read about one of our customers who bought a cabin home. Or, you could read our story on how we converted a 392 sq. ft. shed into an office shed in Kentucky!

Speaking of homes, we also offer animal shelters for your dogs, chickens, or some other pet(s) you have. If you’re interested, you can read about the benefits of backyard chickens.

Living in a shed is a fantastic way to make more from less…what’s stopping you from doing it yourself? At Esh’s Utility Buildings, we build durable prefab sheds and cabins that make great starting points for creating your own shed dwelling! Also, be sure to check out our article on the cost of shed homes here! Our buildings can be built-to-order with a wide range of customization, including exteriors in both wood and vinyl. Alternatively, we have numerous pre-made sheds in our inventory, all available for delivery throughout Kentucky and Tennessee, USA.