She Sheds: The Ultimate Guide
Ever heard of the man cave? Do you know that place where men can go to escape wives and kids, watch the game, and just be themselves? Well, it’s a new age now, and women are claiming their own space in the form of a she shed.
That’s right, men, step aside! Because the she shed is here to steal your wife, girlfriend, or daughter away for a few hours (or days!) of peace and quiet. But what exactly is a she shed? And is there more to it than just being a girly version of a man cave?
Read on to find out everything you need to know about she sheds!
Contents
What is a she shed?
What is a she shed, you ask? Well, only the best thing since the invention of the man cave!
It’s pretty much exactly what it sounds like – a shed that belongs to a woman. But unlike your average garden shed, a she shed is explicitly designed for women, with all the trimmings that make it a cozy and inviting retreat.
From shabby chic to modern and minimalist, there’s a she-shed style to suit every woman’s taste. And the best part is that you can DIY your own she shed on the cheap, or splurge on a luxurious prefabricated model at Esh’s Utility.
We have plenty of she shed ideas for you to peruse, from high barns to low barns, ranch cabins to A-frames. Whatever your style, Esh has a she shed to match. Browse our selection of prefabricated she sheds to find the perfect one for you!
When did the term she shed start?
The term “she shed” is a relatively new one, having only entered the popular lexicon in the last few years. But the concept of a women-only retreat space is nothing new.
In fact, the history of she sheds can be traced all the way back to the Victorian era, when ladies would escape to their “summerhouses” – small, ornate structures built in their gardens specifically for leisure and relaxation.
These early she-sheds were usually decorated with lavish furniture and fabrics and filled with books and magazines for the ladies to enjoy. They were also traditionally located quite close to the main house, so the women didn’t have to venture too far from home to enjoy their own space.
Nowadays, she sheds come in all shapes and sizes, from cozy backyard cottages to large, prefabricated structures. And while they may not be as ornate as their Victorian predecessors, they’re still just as lovely – and just as perfect for taking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
What’s another word for she shed? (What is a she shack?)
A she shed is also sometimes referred to as a “woman cave,” “garden room,” “she shack,” or “backyard studio.” It’s basically any type of private space that’s designed for women to be able to relax, work, or play in peace.
We love the term she shack because it conjures up images of a cozy little space hidden away in the woods, where a woman can go to get away from it all. It’s the perfect name for a small, simple she shed that’s been built with just a few essentials – like a comfy chair, a good book, and a mug of steaming hot coffee. Mmm, what could be better?
Where did she sheds come from?
Asking this question is like asking where man caves come from. The answer is: from the mind of a woman who just needs some space!
But seriously, the idea for she sheds probably came about because of the popularity of man caves. As more and more men started claiming their own space in the form of a man cave, women likely began to feel left out. And so, the she shed was born.
If you want to get finicky with it, you could say that the very first introduction to the shed came from a comical State Farm TV advert in 2019, in which the words “Well, it finally happened, Zachary, somebody burned down my she shed” were spoken.
But whether State Farm was the first to use the term is another story. There’s no denying that they brought it into the mainstream, though, and for that, we are forever grateful.
When did she sheds become popular?
The popularity of she sheds has exploded in recent years, thanks in large part to social media.
As more and more women started sharing photos of their beautifully decorated she-sheds on Instagram and Pinterest, the rest of the world began to take notice. Suddenly, everyone wanted their own little slice of heaven in the backyard.
You’ll now find she sheds in all shapes and sizes, from sprawling garden rooms to tiny backyard studios. And the best part is that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to she sheds – you can make yours as unique as you are.
She shed basics
Now that we’ve answered some of the most common questions about she sheds, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty.
In this section, we’ll dive into she shed purposes and give you a few ideas to get started. Get ready because this is going to be fun!
Well, it’s going to be as fun as reading about she sheds can be, anyway.
What do you need for a she shed?
Building a she shed doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, one of the best things about she sheds is that they can be as simple or as luxurious as you want them to be.
If you’re building your woman cave from scratch, then you’ll need to start with the basics: a foundation, walls, a roof, and a door. Once you’ve got that sorted, you can start thinking about the fun stuff – like decorating and furnishing your new space.
If you’re on a tight budget, you could even repurpose an existing structure, like an old garden shed or a playhouse. Just clear out the cobwebs, give it a fresh coat of paint, and add some personal touches to make it feel like your own.
Of course, if you’ve got a little more money to spend, you could always invest in a prefabricate she shed kit. These usually come with everything you need to build your own backyard oasis, including walls, a roof, windows, and doors. All you’ll have to do is add your own personal touches to make it feel like home.
What to do with a she shed?
This question should be something a little more like, “What CAN’T you do with a she shed?”
The truth is, there are endless possibilities when it comes to she shed ideas. You can use your she shed as a home office, a craft room, a relaxation space, a reading nook, or even a guest room.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular ways to use a she shed:
- Home office: Many women use their she sheds as a home office, and it’s easy to see why. Having your own dedicated workspace can help you stay focused and be more productive. Plus, it’s a great way to get away from the distractions of daily life.
- Craft room: If you’re a crafter or hobbyist, then a she shed is the perfect place to let your creativity run wild. Use it as a space to sew, paint, scrapbook, or work on any other project that brings you joy.
- Relaxation space: Sometimes, you just need a place to unwind and relax. If that’s what you’re looking for, then turn your she shed into a haven of peace and tranquility. Add some comfortable furniture, soft lighting, and soothing décor to create a space that’s perfect for unwinding at the end of a long day.
- Reading nook: If you love to read, then why not turn your she shed into the ultimate reading retreat? Fill it with comfy furniture, plenty of pillows, and all your favorite books. You might even want to add a small fridge so you can keep a stash of tasty snacks on hand.
- Guest room: Have friends or family members who come to stay often? If so, then consider turning your she shed into a guest room. Just add a comfortable bed, some basic furniture, and a few homey touches, and you’ll have a cozy space for your guests to enjoy.
- Hangout: Sometimes, a woman cave is just a place to hang out with your friends. If that’s what you’re looking for, then make sure your space is equipped with plenty of comfortable seating, a TV or stereo, and a fridge stocked with your favorite drinks.
She shed types
When it comes to she shed interior and exterior, you’re pretty much only limited by your imagination. But if you need a little inspiration, here are some of the most popular types of she shed structures.
DIY she sheds
If you’re handy and you like a challenge, then you might want to build your she shed from scratch. This will give you complete control over the design and allow you to personalize it however you like.
With so many guides on how to build a she shed available online, it’s easier than ever to get started. Just do your research, plan, and get to work – before you know it, you’ll have the perfect DIY woman cave, ready for that much-needed girls’ night in.
Prefab she sheds
Not feeling particularly handy? No problem. These days, you can buy prefabricated she shed kits that come with everything you need to build your own backyard oasis. Just choose your favorite style, place your order, and wait for it to be delivered to your door.
Of course, prefab she sheds tend to be a bit more expensive than the DIY kind. But they’re worth considering if you’re not interested in building your shed from scratch.
At Esh’s Utility Buildings, we drop off a wide range of storage sheds right to your backyard and ensure that it’s placed perfectly. This gives you the opportunity to have a shed without having to put any effort into building it yourself!
Call us today or visit our website to learn more.
Custom built-on-site she sheds
If you want a truly unique she shed, then you might want to consider having one custom-built on-site. This option will give you the most control over the design, and it will allow you to get exactly what you want.
Of course, this option is also the most expensive. But if you have the budget for it and want a one-of-a-kind she shed, then it’s worth considering. You can work with a local contractor to create the perfect space for your needs.
She shed styles
Just like regular sheds, she sheds come in all sorts of different styles. Whether you want a rustic retreat or a modern hideaway, there’s sure to be a style that’s perfect for you.
Below, we outline some of the most popular she shed styles, to help you choose the right one for your space.
Ranch-style she sheds
Ranch-style she sheds are characterized by their simple, functional design. They usually have a gabled roof and large, double doors that make it easy to get in and out.
Picture the classic ranch house, but smaller and without any of the extra frills. That’s pretty much what you can expect from a ranch-style she shed. It’s a no-nonsense type of design that will allow you to get the most out of your space.
If you’re looking for a no-frills shed that you can use for storage or as a workspace, then a ranch-style she shed is a good option.
Cottage-style she sheds
Cottage-style she sheds are reminiscent of quaint country cottages. They often have features like flower boxes, shutters, and a porch, giving them a charming, old-fashioned look. It’s one of the more popular she shed styles.
If you want a feminine and romantic retreat, then a cottage-style she shed is a good choice. You can even use it as a guest house or Airbnb rental! Just make sure it’s up to code before you start welcoming guests. And don’t forget to add some cute cottage-style touches, like floral curtains and a comfy armchair.
Barn-style she sheds
Barn-style she sheds are modeled after, you guessed it, barns. They often have features like sliding doors and lofted ceilings, giving them a rustic look.
The barn-style she shed is cozy yet inviting. Nourishing, yet productive. The high ceilings and open floor plan give you plenty of room to move around, and the sliding doors make it easy to get in and out.
If you really wanted to, you could even turn your barn-style she shed into the ultimate woman cave by adding a TV, sound system, and comfortable furniture. Just make sure you have enough outlets to support all your electronics!
Saltbox-style she sheds
Ah, the Saltbox. This classic style is characterized by its sloping roof, which often goes by the name of a catslide roof.
The Saltbox gets its name from the resemblance it bears to a lidded wooden box in which salt was once stored back in the Victorian Era in New England. But don’t worry, your she shed won’t be used for salt storage, unless, of course, you want it to be.
A saltbox-style shed boasts distinctive unequal sides and a long, low rear roof line. The traditional look may show off some New England charm, but the shed’s function is anything but antiquated.
Online she shed decorating ideas will inspire you to take full advantage of the characteristically high ceilings and long walls. For example, you can paint the door a bright color to make a statement or add some large windows to let in natural light. Just be careful when you’re decorating, so you don’t accidentally turn your she shed into a museum piece.
Modern style she sheds
From New England traditional to the future of backyard escapes, the modern she shed is a sleek and stylish way to make your own.
The clean lines of a modern shed will leave you with a feeling of spaciousness and Zen. And because there are no frills or extras, it’s easy to keep things tidy and uncluttered.
Minimalistic yet functional, a modern she shed is perfect for those who want a chic and stylish escape from the everyday. If you’re looking for a serene space to read, write, or just relax, then a modern she shed is the way to go.
Esh’s Hint: To get that clean and contemporary look, try using all-white or neutral colors in your she sheds interior. You can also add some personal touches with art, plants, and decorations. Just make sure not to go overboard, or you’ll lose that modern feeling.
Two-story she sheds
If you have the space, then a two-story she shed is a great way to get more out of your backyard retreat.
The extra floor space provides plenty of room for storage, an office, or even a guest room. And because the second story is typically smaller than the first, it’s easy to keep things feeling cozy and intimate.
If you decide to go with a two-story she shed, then make sure you take advantage of the extra height by adding some windows. Not only will they let in natural light, but they’ll also give you a beautiful view of your yard. In addition, you can also add a balcony or porch to create an even more inviting space.
Prefabricated two-story she sheds from Esh’s Utility Buildings are the perfect way to add some extra living space to your backyard. All you must do is choose the style, size, and features that you want, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Check out our website today to find your perfect two-story she shed.
She shed sizes
Just like anything else, she sheds come in all different shapes and sizes. And while there’s no “right” size for a she shed, there are some things to consider when you’re deciding on the perfect dimensions for your backyard haven.
What is a good size for a she shed?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, such as the size of your yard and what you plan to use your she shed for.
If you just want a small space to relax in, then an 8×10 or 10×12 shed should be plenty of room. However, if you’re looking for a she shed that you can use as an office or guest room, then you’ll need something a bit larger, like a 12×20 or 12×24.
Regardless of the size of your she shed, ensure you leave enough space around it for easy access and comfortable walking. In addition, you’ll also need to factor in any obstacles, such as trees, fences, or sheds, that could get in the way when you’re placing your order.
Popular she shed sizes
- 8×10 – Perfect for small yards or simple she shed designs, the 8×10 is one of the most popular she shed sizes. It offers pretty much just enough space for a chair, a small table, and some shelving. If you’re smart with your she shed decorating ideas; you could even squeeze in a daybed or futon.
- 10×10 – Things get a little more spacious with a 10×10 she shed. This size is large enough to add 1 or 2 pieces of furniture and still have a bit of room to move around. You could also use a 10×10 shed as a tiny office or art studio.
- 10×12 – Here’s where you start to get into the medium-sized she shed range. With a 10×12, you can easily add a couch, desk, and shelves without feeling cramped. This size is perfect for those who want a larger space to relax in or use as an office.
- 12×12 – A 12×12 shed is an excellent option if you’re looking for a bit more space without going too big. With a 12×12 she shed interior, you can easily add a few pieces of furniture, such as a couch and coffee table. Some people even use this size as a tiny guest house.
- 12×20 – If you need a lot of space for your she shed, then a 12×20 is a great option. This size is large enough to add multiple pieces of furniture, including a bed, couch, and desk. With the ample amount of space, you can also use a 12×20 shed as your second living room when you’ve had just about enough of the noise and chaos of your main house.
- 12×24 – The largest size on our list, a 12×24 shed, is big enough to fit just about anything you need. With this much space, you could easily turn your shed into a guest house, living room, office, or even a combination of all three. Plus, if you have a lot of stuff, then a 12×24 shed gives you plenty of room to store it all.
Popular she shed features
Now that you know all about she shed sizes, it’s time to start thinking about features. After all, a she shed is more than just a backyard shed; it’s your own private oasis, so you want to make sure it has everything you need to relax and feel at home.
She sheds with porches
One of the most popular she shed features is a porch. After all, what’s more relaxing than sitting on a porch with a cup of coffee or glass of wine and taking in the fresh air?
Nothing. Seriously, nothing is more relaxing.
Porches not only provide you with a tranquil and peaceful spot to relax, but they also add a touch of charm and curb appeal to your she shed. They make it feel more like a stand-alone guest house or cottage, rather than just a backyard shed.
If the fact that porches make your she shed more relaxing and attractive doesn’t convince you, then maybe the fact that they also increase the value of your shed will. That’s right; adding a porch to your she shed can increase its resale value.
Whether you want a small porch with room for a couple of chairs or a large wrap-around porch with enough space for a table and chairs, you can’t go wrong with this she shed feature. To get more ideas for your shed porch, check out Shed Porch Ideas and Inspiration.
She sheds with dormers
Dormers are another popular she shed feature, and for good reason. Not only do they add character and charm, but they also let in natural light, which is always a plus.
Natural light is what motivates us to get out of bed in the morning and face the day. It’s also been proven to boost our mood, improve our sleep, and increase our productivity. So, if you’re looking for a she shed feature that will help you relax and feel good, then dormers are a great option.
Dormers come in all shapes and sizes, so you can easily find ones that fit your shed’s size and style. Plus, they’re relatively easy to add on, so you won’t have to spend a lot of time or money to get this she shed feature.
As you may already know, you can buy prefabricated she sheds with dormers already installed. However, if you want to add dormers to an existing shed, then you can easily do so by hiring a contractor or carpenter.
Read more about sheds with dormers here.
She sheds with cupolas
Ever heard of a cupola? If not, don’t worry; you’re not the only one. Cupolas are a she shed feature that’s often overlooked, but they can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your shed.
A cupola is a small structure that sits on top of your shed and has windows on all sides. They’re often used for ventilation, but they can also be used to let in natural light.
As we mentioned before, natural light is your best friend when it comes to she sheds. It not only makes your shed feel brighter and more open, but it also has several benefits for your health. So, if you want a she shed feature that’s both functional and stylish, then a cupola is a great option.
She shed prices
Now that you know all about she shed sizes and features, it’s time to start thinking about price. After all, you don’t want to spend more than you must on your dream shed.
The good news is that she sheds are relatively affordable, especially when you compare them to other types of backyard structures.
What is the average cost of a she shed?
The average cost of a she shed is between $3600 and $9700. However, the price will vary depending on the size and features of your shed.
For example, a small shed with no features will cost less than a large shed with porches and dormers. The same is true for prefabricated sheds and sheds that you build yourself.
Prefabricated she sheds from Esh’s will run you about $3600 on average. But, if you want a shed that’s larger or has more features, then you can expect to pay closer to $9700.
You also must consider unfinished and finished sheds. Unfinished sheds are less expensive, but they’ll require more work on your part. Finished sheds, on the other hand, will cost more upfront but save you time and effort in the long run.
- Unfinished- she-sheds will cost you between $3600 and $6400 on average.
- Finished – finished-she-sheds will run you between $6400 and $9700.
Of course, these are just averages; the final cost of your she shed will depend on several factors, including size, features, materials, and more.
She shed ideas
It’s time to start thinking about design. This is the absolute best part about planning for a she shed. You get to let your imagination run wild and come up with the perfect space for you!
There are endless possibilities when it comes to she shed decorating ideas, so it’s important to take your time and think about what you want. Do you want a cozy space to read and relax? A bright and airy space to work on your latest craft project? A sleek and modern space for entertaining guests?
The sky’s the limit so don’t be afraid to get creative.
How do I make my she shed pretty?
With so many she shed ideas out there, it can be tough to decide how to make your shed look its best. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1) Start with the basics: Before you start decorating, make sure your shed is in good condition. This means repairing any damage, painting the shed if necessary, and cleaning up the outside area. Of course, you can skip this if you’re buying a brand-new shed!
2) Bring in some furniture: Once your shed is in tip-top shape, it’s time to start thinking about furniture. For example, you might want a comfy chair for reading, a desk for working, or a table for entertaining.
3) Add some personal touches: Now it’s time to have some fun! This is where you can really let your personality shine through. Add some comfy pillows, hang some curtains, or put up some photos. Just make sure your shed feels like a reflection of you.
4) Don’t forget the lighting: Lighting is key in any space, but it’s especially important in she sheds. You want to make sure your shed is well-lit so you can see what you’re doing and avoid tripping over things.
5) Accessorize: The final touch is to add some accessories. This might include rugs, plants, or knick-knacks. Just make sure not to go overboard; you want your shed to feel inviting, not cluttered.
She shed interiors
Now that we’ve gone over she shed basics and some design tips, it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty: she shed interiors. This is where you really get to make your shed your own.
There are a few things to consider when it comes to she shed interiors, including flooring, walls, and ceilings.
What type of flooring is best for a she shed?
First, think about what type of activities you’ll be doing in your shed. If you’re planning on spending a lot of time working on crafts or painting, then you might want to opt for a durable floor like tile or concrete.
On the other hand, if you want your shed to be a cozy space for reading and relaxing, then a carpet might be a better option. It’s important to choose a flooring material that suits your needs and lifestyle.
What type of walls are best for a she shed?
The type of walls you choose will also depend on the activities you’ll be doing in your shed. For example, if you’re planning on using your shed as a workshop, then you might want to opt for walls made of durable materials like plywood or metal.
On the other hand, if you want your shed to be a cozy space for reading and relaxing, then walls made of softer materials like fabric or shiplap might be a better option.
What type of ceiling is best for a she shed?
When it comes to ceilings, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the height of your shed. If your shed has high ceilings, then you might want to install a ceiling fan to keep the air circulating.
If your shed has lower ceilings, then you might want to opt for a lighter-colored ceiling to make the space feel more open and airier.
She shed FAQs
We answered a lot in this article, but we know you might still have some questions. So here are a few of the most common she shed FAQs:
Q: Do I need a permit to build a she shed?
A: The answer to this question depends on where you live. In some areas, you might need a permit to build an outdoor structure like a she shed. In other areas, you might not need a permit if the shed meets certain size and height requirements. It’s always best to check with your local planning and zoning department to see if you need a permit before you start building.
Q: Can I live in she shed?
A: This may seem uncomplicated, but it’s important to remember that she sheds are not actual homes. Generally speaking, you cannot live in a she shed full-time. However, some people do use she sheds as guest houses or rental units. If you’re planning on using your she shed as a guest house or rental unit; then you will need to check with your local laws and regulations to see if you need any special permits.
Cheryl’s she shed
If you’ve been with us since the beginning of this article, then you may recall a reference to the State Farm TV advertisement in which the words “Well, it finally happened, Zachary, somebody burned down my she shed” were spoken.
Before, we told you that it was the first-ever she shed advertisement. And it was! The commercial aired in 2019 and featured a woman named Cheryl, her husband, Victor, and a State Farm Insurance rep, Zachary. But what we didn’t tell you is that since the advertisement aired, the internet went crazy, attempting to find out who exactly burned down Cheryl’s she shed.
- What is Cheryl’s she shed? – Cheryl’s she shed first came to our screens on the State Farm Insurance advertisement in 2019. The commercial features Cheryl, who calls Zachary at State Farm to inquire whether she’s covered for the outdoor “she shed” that is burning down in front of her and Victor.
- Did Cheryl burn down her she shed? – To this day, we’re still not exactly sure who burned down Cheryl’s she shed. Her husband, Victor, claims it was struck by lightning. Cheryl blames Victor, and State Farm’s Zachary just wants to help. Although, the prevailing fan theory is that Victor burned down the she shed.
- Why did Victor burn down Cheryl’s she shed? – There are a few different theories out there. Some say that Victor was jealous of Cheryl’s she shed and burned it down out of spite. Others claim that Victor was trying to collect the insurance money. And then there are those who believe that Victor simply just missed his wife and wanted her to come back inside the house.
We may never know who burned down Cheryl’s she shed, but we do know that it caused quite a stir on the internet. And it also inspired people to start building their own she sheds!
What is the easiest way to get a she shed?
We think you already know the answer to this question, but we’ll spell it out for you anyway. The easiest way to get a she shed is to buy a prefabricated shed from Esh’s Utility Buildings, of course!
Esh’s offers a wide variety of prefabricated she sheds that come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re looking for a simple storage shed or a more elaborate she shed complete with windows, doors, and a porch, Esh’s has you covered.
We also offer a 3D Shed Builder tool on our website that you can use to design your perfect she shed. If you have anything specific in mind, or if you need some inspiration, you won’t want to miss out on this tool.
Esh’s is the way to go if you’re looking for a high-quality, prefabricated she shed. We make it easy and convenient to get the shed of your dreams.
Check out our website today and look at our selection of she sheds. We know you won’t be disappointed!
The Conclusion
No matter what style she shed you choose, remember that the most important thing is that it’s a reflection of you. So have fun with it, and make it a space that you enjoy spending time in.
That’s all for now! We hope you enjoyed reading this ultimate guide to she sheds. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us. And, if you’re in the market for a she shed, be sure to check out our selection of prefabricated she sheds. Furthermore, we offer advice on tiny house shell design and customization, if you have any questions.
