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Gone are the days when garden sheds were just basic timber structures with a simple design. Today, you can find a variety of modern models on the market, with improved features than before. Let’s break down what makes them that way.
Modern Sheds Aren’t Just for Storage Anymore
‘Versatility in functionality’ is the best way to describe one of the modern shed’s key features. These garden rooms can serve a wide range of purposes and aren’t just a dumping ground anymore. It all comes down to how they are built.
Many now come with insulation, known as insulated garden sheds. This built-in feature makes these structures suitable for year-round use, no matter the weather. They also come with flexible layouts and a range of sizes to fit different garden dimensions.
Such upgrades mean they can handle a wider range of functions. For starters, they can be utilised for entertainment, relaxation, or even convert a shed into a summerhouse or bar shed—and that’s just one of the many possibilities!
Contemporary Shed Design
The design of modern sheds is smarter, too, and it’s synonymous with sleek and stylish. For one, the tongue and groove cladding gives them that polished, contemporary look. And durability isn’t compromised, thanks to the watertight design that makes the building more weather-resistant and long-lasting.
The pent-roof style is another feature that makes the shed modern-looking. Its simple, single-sloped design gives a stylish twist to a traditional peaked roof. Not only that, but it also adds extra head height, so you can walk in without having to duck.
What’s more, the windows are larger—quite a shift from windowless designs. And how can we forget the skylights that make the space feel more airy, bright, and open? They’re a great bonus if you’re thinking of using the shed as a garden office, workshop, or anything else.
Don’t worry about fitting everything inside, either, as modern sheds come with wide double doors and flexible placement options. It’s this same system that allows you to choose and tweak the door positions, as well as windows, due to the interchangeable panels.
There’s nothing more modern than these for a garden shed, is there?
Upgraded Materials for Modern Sheds
Sheds today aren’t just made of timber; you can also find options in metal and plastic. These materials aren’t used as they are but with improvements in their construction.
First, let’s look at wooden sheds. One popular feature of a wooden shed is the availability of pressure treatment. This treatment protects the wood against rot and decay, and many manufacturers, like Garden Buildings Direct, offer a 15-year guarantee (or more if well looked after). There might be a slight difference in appearance, but our range of pressure treated sheds is proof that they can still remain upmarket.
Next, metal sheds. A modern metal shed resists rust and corrosion, and they look far less dull. The hot-dipped galvanised finish on steel sheds, for instance, is a premium feature that resists rust and makes them low maintenance. Their high-grade paint options, such as anthracite grey and heritage green, add to their modern look.
Give this guide a read to find out ‘How Strong Are Metal Sheds?’
Plastic sheds have shaken off their reputation for being ‘weak’ as well. Polypropylene, among other materials, is widely used and it’s an exceptionally tough plastic. Reinforced with aluminium or metal frames, these storage structures offer better strength and can withstand the elements far better than standard plastic units.
Read this guide to learn more: The Plastic Sheds FAQs You Need to Know
Modern Shed’s Technology Integration
Technology has made its way into modern shed designs, with smart features like automated lighting and security systems. A quick button press or voice command lets you adjust the lighting or temperature to suit you. And you can check on your shed from afar for security convenience.
Some modern sheds also come with exteriors that are resistant to UV, fire, and wind. A few even have built-in ventilation and gutters with outlets. A great example is the Telluria Luminato Steel Garden Room. This model has a fully-glazed door, two floor-to-ceiling windows, in-built ventilation, and a pre-insulated roof. And the cylinder lock system is all about security—what’s not to love?
Round-up
What makes sheds ‘modern’ is how they’re built to be more versatile. The contemporary designs are a big part of it, along with materials that have special finishes or additives. And, of course, the smart upgrades all add to their modern feel.
Up next on your reading list: Garden Sheds Buying Guide
