The functions of garden sheds go beyond storage. These structures can be turned into entertainment spaces where you can host gatherings, among other shed makeover ideas. Here, we’ve listed some of our favourite transformations to inspire your dream outdoor socialising hub.
Garden Shed with Bar
Your shed doesn’t have to go through a full conversion to become your dream bar retreat. A simple addition to the corner space with the BillyOh Nightjar Garden Bar is a great way to achieve this! It has an L-shaped design that maximises counter space over 1m² while fitting into a corner, measuring 1.2×1.2. You can set up 3 to 4 bar stools around this mini-bar, which stands at a height of 1.0m. It’s made of wooden panels, so it’ll fit into your wooden shed, even better if you’re going for a rustic theme.
Install soft lighting such as LED strips underneath the counter to highlight the wood’s texture and create a warm ambience, especially at night. If space allows, build shelves or cabinets in the back section of the bar for storage. This placement also gives you easy access to everything you need while preparing and serving drinks.
The BillyOh Nightjar also works for log cabins and summerhouses over 3mx3m.
BBQ Shelter
The idea is to shelter your trusty grill, whether it’s a charcoal BBQ or gas grill, so you and your family can enjoy outdoor cookouts in any weather. This lets you flaunt your grilling skills while ensuring everyone stays sheltered, too!
Here’s how it works: divide the shed into two main areas: one side for grilling and food preparation and the other for dining. Place your grill, add counter space, and store your BBQ accessories. Set up a long, fold away picnic table or a few smaller tables with chairs. Extend the area by adding a canopy or shade sail.
This concept works best for larger shed units to accommodate such requirements, but even a small one can fit a grill inside. Just make sure you ventilate it well! Read our guide, ‘BBQ Party Ideas for the Ultimate Summer Bash,’ for more inspiration.
Cinema Shed
This one deserves a spot in our garden shed conversion ideas! Turning a shed into a room for movie enthusiasts might be just what you need to take your outdoor entertainment to the next level. You can enjoy a theatre-like experience without leaving your property.
The makeover process may take time and effort, but it will surely be worthwhile. Refer to our guide, ‘ 8 Tips for Creating Your Dream Log Cabin Cinema’ for step-by-step instructions. Although it’s intended for log cabins, the versatility of sheds makes it adaptable for this project as well.
Gaming Shed
As we age and take on more responsibilities, our hobbies tend to take a back burner. If you enjoy gaming, it might be time to start making room for the things you love, one step at a time. Creating a games room shed is a great way to rekindle your gaming days. Turn it into a gamer’s ultimate playground with these shed games room ideas!
Summerhouse Shed
Perhaps you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind during warm weather, but you don’t have a patio. If you have an old shed sitting in the corner, unused, why not convert it into a summerhouse? With one of these, you can create an outdoor retreat that’s perfect not just for summer but year-round, especially if it’s well-insulated. Decorate it to feel homelike with these summerhouse furniture ideas.
Tip: To get the best of both worlds, consider making the garden building a multi-purpose space. Reserve one section of the shed to protect your outdoor items from the weather while dedicating the summerhouse area for relaxation. Take inspiration from the BillyOh Penton Corner Summerhouse with Side Store.
So, which of these garden shed ideas for outdoor gatherings caught your interest?
Bonus guide: Garden Shed Retreat for Pets: Considerations + Tips