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20+ Uses That Will Change the Way You Think About Storage Buildings

by Dakota Storage Buildings, on September 20, 2016

20 Uses That Will Change the Way You Think About Storage Buildings

Storage buildings—both sheds and garages—have more uses than you may think.

While sheds are traditionally used for storage—a great solution for keeping things organized, easily accessible, safe, and out of sight—there so many other uses, many of which you may have never considered.

Here are just a few.

1. Vehicle Storage

Your vehicle will last longer if it’s kept in a garage style storage building when not in use. Extreme weather conditions can cause annoying, inconvenient, and costly problems that can be easily prevented if vehicles are sheltered. During cold months, batteries can die, essential fluids can freeze, and vehicles can be buried in snow. Here are three more benefits to storing your vehicle in a garage.

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2. Pool House 

Do you have a shed and a pool? If so, why not transform your shed into a pool house? If you don't have a shed, consider buying a porch style storage building. In addition to storing pool noodles, cleaners, and other aquatic equipment, plus it can function as a changing room and snack station. Here are some tips to help you convert your shed into a backyard pool house.

3. Chicken Coop

Whether you already have chickens or are looking to get some, if you need a coop, think about using a shed. If you choose to purchase a shed, you have the benefit of starting from scratch which will enable you to customize your own backyard chicken coop. Because 4.5 square feet of space is needed per chicken, ten chickens would fit comfortably in a standard 8×10 foot or 8×12 foot storage building. 

If this seems like too much work, consider a high-quality prefab backyard chicken coop.

4. She Shed

A porch style storage building can be easily transformed into the perfect She Shed. Life's busy; this backyard escape can provide much-needed peace and quiet. Imagine a room intended for crafting, scrapbooking, or writing. All that's required is a table, lighting, and a couple of chairs, or other pieces of furniture that would add to the comfort and ambiance. Add outdoor curtains, a swing, or a bistro set on the porch for the finishing touch. This space can be personalized to fit anyone's unique taste.

5. Man Cave

If you’re a man looking for a place to get away, a space to relax, fix things, or tinker, we have a great option for you. Whether it’s a wood working shop, a sports den, or a surround sound theater, our buildings will do the trick. Add insulation, a built-in workbench, or any of our other storage building features to improve comfort. For the ultimate Man Cave, add electricity then plug in a big screen TV for a great action movie or the big Sunday football game. Stock a mini fridge with Coca-Cola or Pepsi for half-time refreshment.

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6. Doghouse

Consider using a shed for a doghouse. While dogs need companionship and human interaction to thrive, having private quarters outside could be a great thing for both your dog and your family. Don’t have space in your current shed, no problem. We have a wide range of storage building styles that would work well. 

Need something quick and easy but high-quality, check out our outdoor dog kennels.

7. Playhouse 

What child doesn't want a playhouse in their backyard? Most children love playing outside and having a space they can call their own. While many have a bedroom, a playroom or playhouse provides yet another creative space to encourage play and imagination. Our storage buildings make great playhouses. Here are a few steps to help you through the process of selecting, buying, and decorating a shed perfect for your backyard playhouse.

8. Dirt Bike & Motorcycle Storage

Storing your dirt bikes and motorcycles in a garage not only keeps them sheltered from the elements, but provides security and, depending on size, an optimal workspace. We have two garage style buildings that would work perfectly. Each come in various sizes. If you just need space to store your bike, a smaller size shed would do. If you want a place to work on your bike, keep tools and accessories, and store your bike, a larger size would be better. 

9. Hunting Shed 

If you are a hunter and enjoy spending time outdoors, then you should consider buying a hunting shed. Some of our customers have purchased sheds for the sole purpose of turning them into their ideal hunting shed to rest in and to stay sheltered from harsh weather. Here are five considerations for creating your own hunting shed.

10. Golf Shed

Most who golf love the game; some would go so far to say they're avid golfers who look for any and every opportunity to steal away for a game. For those so dedicated, owning a shed to store golf gear would be convenient and empowering. Consider creating a golf haven of your own using a high-quality shed. 

11. Art Studio

Whether you are a professional artist or simply like to paint in your spare time, having a dedicated space, or art studio, for your art would be ideal. Creating art often requires a quiet space where you can get messy. Transforming your backyard shed into an art studio is a simple and fun solution. You can splatter as much paint as you want, keep all of your supplies in one place, and disappear to the backyard whenever creativity strikes. Here are a few things to consider when turning your backyard shed into a art studio.

12. ATV Storage

Create the ultimate ATV storage using a storage building. Our garage style storage buildings allow you to store everything related to your ATVs. Off-road vehicles are valuable, so it's important to keep them stored in a safe place. A four-wheeler storage shed can provide protection from theft, from the elements, and from pests. 

13. Snowmobile Storage

If you have a snowmobile, you probably crave the arrival of sled-worthy snow all year long. From trails to off-roading adventures, who doesn’t love the rush of riding through winter’s wonderland? Until then, be sure to store your snowmobile properly in a storage building. Here are some tips for making sure your garage is snowmobile ready

14. Home Office 

If you need an at-home office, don't add a pricey addition to your home, instead convert a shed into an office! It's affordable and practical. If you own your home and you have usable land, this solution is ideal. An office shed should be tall enough to stand up in comfortably and large enough for office furniture essentials. Giving yourself some space to move around will make the shed feel like a legitimate office. Our 8×12' and 10×12' High Barn style sheds are perfect. Here are some tips for creating an ideal home office in your backyard storage building.

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15. Boat Storage 

Storing your boat indoors - whether in between trips or for the winter - will help protect it from the elements and extend its life. The most ideal scenario would be to store the boat and trailer on your property. A garage would be a logical storage solution. Don't have a garage? Or is your boat just a little too long to store in your garage? You're in luck! We have solutions for both of these problems! Try these practical and creative boat storage options. More reading: Lakeside Storage Sheds And Everything You Need to Know About Them [Infographic]

16. Garden Shed 

Garden sheds are made with utility and convenience in mind. They're perfect for storing lawn and garden equipment, offer valuable workspace, and depending on size, can provide room for growing starter plants. Small and medium-sized storage buildings work well. The next time you reorganize your garden shed, keep these organizational tips nearby.

17. Home Gym 

A dedicated fitness space doesn't have to cost much money, plus if it's in your backyard, it has the added value of being convenient and easily accessible. Here are some ideas and suggestions for setting up a home gym in your backyard shed. 

18. Wood Working Shop

When it comes to pursuing woodworking as a hobby, there's no substitute for a personal workshop where you can dabble and work on projects when it's convenient for you. Any of our storage buildings would make an excellent shop, plus we offer add-ons like built-in workbench to save space, additional windows for more natural light, and double or garage doors for easy access and convenience. Learn how to create your own backyard wood working shop.

19. Farm Tool Storage 

Every farm needs a reliable shed for the basics. Store small farm equipment and accessories in our storage building and your items will be protected from the elements, less likely to deteriorate, and reliable for performance. Keep belts, chains, clutches, cutting edges, and other parts subject to corrosion and deterioration dry and clean. For convenient access, add a garage door, or for more workspace, add a built in workbench.

20. Business Expansion

If your small business needs more useable space or an area dedicated to storing inventory and overstock items, a storage building is an ideal business expansion solution that doesn't consume valuable office space. You can add commercial grade shelving or a storage system to maximize space and simplify inventory management. To expand useable work space, consider buying a storage building instead of renting a mobile trailer or building an addition. 

Even more to explore.

Yes, there are even more ideas. We told you that sheds and garages are practical, useful, and versatile! 

Can't find what you want? Try our online configurator to create your own customized shed or garage.

Customize Your Garage or Shed

It’s our mission to make high-quality buildings and to offer service that exceeds expectations. Learn more by visiting us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Pinterest. Or you can do it the old-fashioned way by exploring our sheds in person at a display location near you.

Topics:Garage & Shed Uses

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