Think that your shed would be more useful as an extra room? Perhaps you're after a creative space that gets you out of the house? Well, your shed could be the answer! It is possible to turn your dusty storage space into a usable spot at the end of the garden. Here's how to do it. 

1 - Make a Plan

First things first, it's good to decide exactly how you'd like the summerhouse to look. Sketching it out, taking some measurements for furniture, or picking out some paint colours are all great ways to prepare yourself for this exciting project. This will help you know exactly what you're looking for in the DIY shop and hopefully will allow you to shop around before committing to any paint or furniture.

2 - Clear out the shed

Now, it's time to get started. Clear out anything in the shed and store it elsewhere for now. It's also a great time to sort through anything in there and decide what you need to keep and what can be chucked out. Give the inside and outside a good clean, dusting out those cobwebs and prepping the outside for paint.

3 - Wire it Up

If you want to use the shed like a home away from home, you'll probably need some electricity in there. For this part, we recommend hiring a professional or getting help from an electrician friend. Shop around for quotes, though, as this can be an expensive part of the process.

4 - Add some insulation

Insulation is key to the perfect summerhouse. It will ensure the shed stays cool in the summer, and that you won’t freeze in the winter. It will also help the shed stay energy efficient.

Pick the material for the insulation - from insulation boards to ThermaWrap. Do your research before choosing, picking the best one for your needs.

Ensure the insulation is installed between the frames of the shed, covering the roof, walls, and even the floor.

5 - Start painting!

Hopefully, by this point, you've picked out paint for your exterior and inside of the summerhouse. Of course, this isn't absolutely necessary if you want to save some pennies, but a fresh lick of paint might be exactly what your old shed needs to make it feel brand new.

6 - Furnish

By now, you'll know how big the space is and what you'll be using it for. Ensure there's plenty of storage, especially if you're using it as a creative space or office. We recommend taking a look on websites like Gumtree or Facebook marketplace for affordable deals! 

And there you have it. Your very own summerhouse, recreated from your old shed. This option is far more cost-effective than starting a summerhouse from scratch or choosing from a catalogue of specially designed units. Let us know how you get on by tagging us on social media - @jparkersbulbs.