Are you on the hunt for a shed to sort out your backyard storage woes? Have you been looking out onto your backyard and thinking about what you could do with that space? As Australians, having a shed is almost an essential part of being a homeowner.
Whether it’s a spot to stash the garden tools, a shelter for the kids’ bikes, or even a safe haven for your prized ride-on mower, choosing the right-sized shed is key. After all, a shed isn’t just a practical addition, it's part of your home's identity. Get it right, and you'll have a home (slightly) away from home that you can use to embrace your hobbies and ditch the clutter. Get it wrong, and you'll be kicking yourself wondering why you didn't do more research in the first place.
At Space Sheds, we are passionate about helping you find the right shed for your needs. Whether you're a hobbyist or you need the perfect place to get your work done, a Space Sheds shed is the ultimate choice for Aussie homes. Let’s walk through how to nail the perfect shed size for your family’s needs.
Your Shed's Size: Why It Matters
It's great that you've made the first move in knowing that you want to buy a shed, but picking the right one isn’t as simple as just grabbing the cheapest option that you can find online. Sure, price matters, but there’s more to it, especially if you're wanting your shed to stand the test of time.
A shed that’s too small can leave you frustrated, while one that’s too big might dominate your yard or even need council approval (more on that later). Plus, how it looks matters too, even if we aren't buying a shed for its artistic potential. A shed that’s out of whack with your garden can throw off the whole feel of your outdoor space. So, yeah, size does matter if you want a shed that’s just right for your family.
Let's talk about what you should be looking for when it comes time to select your shed.
Find the Right Spot For Your Shed
Before you even think about measurements, have a wander around your yard and picture where your shed will live. Do you want it tucked away near the fence to keep the kids’ play area free? Or maybe closer to the house for easy access? Most Aussie families pop their sheds along the fence line or near the exterior walls to max out the usable backyard space.
It's also good to see how it will fit, and ask yourself how you want it to look once it's standing monolithic in your backyard area. Do you want it to blend in quietly or make a bit of a statement? And don’t forget access; where do you want the door facing? Will you add a window for light or a little path to keep the muddy boots outside? Take your time here; finding the right spot sets the tone for everything else, and it's not easy to find a new spot if you decide that your beloved shed is getting in the way of the view.
Measure Up Your Shed's New Home
Once you’ve locked in the location, it’s time to break out the tape measure and start planning for your Space Sheds' arrival.
Start with the width—this is usually where the doors sit, so measure the space you want to access from. Next, figure out the depth—how far do you want the shed to stretch into the yard? Think about what you’ll store inside: will it just be a few shovels and a wheelbarrow, or are you dreaming of a setup with room for the BBQ and a workbench?
Height’s the last piece of the puzzle. Most sheds come with a standard wall height of about 1.8m (around 6ft), which is plenty for most families. But if you’re tall or planning to store bigger gear there are “Tall Shed” options that go up to 2.4m, similar to the ceiling height in a typical Aussie home. Just remember that the taller the shed, the more visible it's likely to be, so if you have a particularly lovely view, you'll want to position it away from your windows.
The roof style you pick will tweak the peak height, so let’s dive into that next.
Selecting Your Roof Style
Just like with your home itself. the roof of your shed isn’t just about keeping the rain off—it can change the look, feel, and even the storage space of your shed.
Here’s a quick rundown of your options:
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Gable: Think classic Aussie pitched roof with the peak smack in the middle. Great for extra headroom and a timeless look.
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Skillion: A slanty, modern vibe with the high point at the front or back. Perfect if you want a sleek design or need water to run off one way.
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Flat: Super modern and simple, though not as great for heavy rain areas.
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Barn: A nod to the American style with a high, curved peak—ideal if you want a bit of extra loft storage.
Your choice might depend on the weather where you live, how much storage you need, or just what you reckon looks good. If you’re stumped, have a yarn with a shed pro—they’ll steer you towards the best fit for your family.
What's the Shed For, Anyway?
When choosing a shed, you do always need to know what you're going to be using it for. All sheds are different and different requirements are going to mean different shed requirements. As cheesy as it is to say, not all sheds are created equal, and it's important to keep your use case in mind.
Are you just storing the basics—lawnmower, rake, a few pots? Or do you need space for shelving, a workbench, or even a spot to hang the fishing rods? If you’re tight on space outside, swapping a hinged door for a sliding one can free up more room inside.
What about extras, are you planning something special for your new space? Fancy a little garden bed along the front for the kids to grow some veggies? Factor that into your measurements so the shed itself still fits. Height matters too—if you’re hanging tools or bikes, make sure the roof’s high enough to keep everything comfy.
A Note on Australian Council Rules
Here’s a heads-up: if your shed’s over 10m², your local council might want a say. Bigger sheds often need a permit, so check the rules in your area before you commit. Better safe than sorry!
Shop With Space Sheds Today
Picking the right shed size doesn’t have to be a headache. Start with your spot, measure carefully, think about what you’ll store, and choose a roof that suits your style. Get it right, and you’ll have a shed that’s not just practical but a real asset to your backyard. So, grab a cuppa, head outside, and start planning—your perfect family shed is waiting!
