The Biggest Mistake in Shed Design (And How to Avoid It)
The biggest mistake in shed design is also the toughest to avoid: Location, Location, Location! Because placement is so critical, it occupies the top three spots on the list of issues to avoid.
While it sounds like we’re talking about real estate for a business, we aren't. A shed's placement is vital to the aesthetic and utility of your property. If placed incorrectly, an outdoor shed can substantially reduce the function and feel of your backyard.
Biggest Mistake to Avoid With Outdoor Shed Plans
Sheds, Plans, and Backyard Dangers
Since the placement of your shed is critical, you must ensure you don't tuck it away in the wrong spot. Keep in mind that the following guidelines are exactly that—guidelines. For every rule, there is an exception.
Avoid the Center: Keep your shed out of the center of your yard. Surrounding it with a “pasture” of green grass eliminates the positive architectural impact the structure is meant to provide.
Mind the Views: Consider views from all angles. Ensure you don't block important sightlines from the interior of your house. When working on your shed design, look out from every room that faces the yard to see how the shed affects your view.
Respect Functional Zones: Do not block views between important areas within the backyard itself. Treat your backyard like your house; each area has a specific function, and those functions should have a clear relationship with one another.
Maintain Flow: Always prioritize the natural foot traffic and “flow” of your outdoor space.
Watch the Elevation: A commonly forgotten issue is placement relative to elevation. Ensure your shed is not located at a low point in your yard.
Why Elevation Matters
Placing a structure at a low point is a recipe for disaster. Even if you don't plan to use your shed during a rainstorm, standing water around your new architectural element can rot the wood and damage the structural integrity of the foundation.
Finding the best placement for your shed requires a good feel for design, flow, and function. Remember: more mistakes are made with location than with any other factor. Fortunately, almost any other problem can be easily remedied or mitigated.
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Start Building the Right Way
Depending on your specific landscape, it can be incredibly difficult to move a shed once it has been built. Take care and give careful consideration to your placement during the design phase.
