A garden shed is best for storage, while a workshop shed is best for projects. There are many similarities between the two, but they do have some key differences. We’ll talk about that below and whether you may be able to use one shed to accomplish both goals.
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What is a Garden Shed?
A garden shed is a classic backyard staple, and its primary job is to house everything you need for tending to your garden. These are all of the basics like your gardening tools, bags of soil, hoses, and perhaps even a lawnmower.
Rather than having all of this stuff strewn about your yard, exposed to the elements and looking messy, you can gather it all up in a garden shed and stay nicely organized.
How Big Should a Garden Shed Be?
| Size | Best For |
| 6×8 ft | Small tools, hoses, and gardening supplies |
| 8×10 ft | Standard tools, soil bags, and a push mower |
| 10×12 ft | Shelving + larger equipment |
| 12×16 ft+ | Riding mowers, wheelbarrows, and bulk storage |
Most of the time, a garden shed isn’t going to include any working space. It’s usually just a storage shed that is meant for all of your gardening things. This is a great plan because it allows the footprint of the building to remain rather small.
It doesn’t need to be a huge structure to make a big impact on your gardening life. In fact, if you aren’t going to park a lawnmower inside it, a garden shed can be quite small and still work well for your needs.
How Do You Organize a Garden Shed?
Shelves will make it easier to keep small things within reach, and adding hooks or cubbies can also help with various items. Over time, the way your garden shed is used will naturally evolve, and you’ll be able to make it something that is a perfect companion for your time spent outside.
What is a Workshop Shed?
A workshop shed is meant for taking on projects. You can think of it as a personal working space outside of the home. Whether it’s woodworking projects, crafts, mechanical work, or anything else, having a workshop shed can allow you to engage in the kinds of creative, engaging projects that you have come to love. If you are considering building your own workshop, check out this blog on top workshop ideas.
How Big is A Workshop Shed?
| Size | Best For |
| 12×16 ft | Small projects, crafts, light hobby work |
| 12×20 ft | Workbench + tool storage |
| 16×24 ft | Woodworking or mechanical projects |
| 20×30 ft+ | Large machinery, multi-station workshops |
Naturally, more space is going to be required for this kind of shed. If you’ll physically be inside the shed doing work, it will have to be far bigger than what would be considered a “standard” garden shed. It may also need to be more complex. For example, if you need to have electricity in the shed or running water, those elements will have to be considered in the design and construction phases.
Can One Shed Be for Garden Storage and a Workshop?
While they are very different, it is absolutely possible to combine elements of both into a single shed. This can be accomplished by working with a partner like American Carports, Inc. that values the importance of customization. When a shed can be fully customized from the ground up, it’s easy to craft it into exactly what you want and to make the best possible use of the space available.
How to Design a Layout for a Workshop and Storage Shed?
If you are going to try to use a single shed for both garden storage and a workspace, think carefully about the layout. You may want to dedicate one side of the shed to garden stuff while the other side is your main workshop area. Or, you might even add an interior wall so the two areas don’t mix at all. Take your time playing with different design ideas until you settle on something that is the right fit.
- Define your primary needs. Decide how much space should go to garden storage versus workshop activities.
- Divide the space. Dedicate one side of the shed to tools and supplies, and the other to your work area.
- Consider separation. Add an interior wall or partition if you want to keep storage and workspace completely separate.
- Plan for organization. Use shelves, hooks, and bins in the storage side, and leave open space for benches or equipment in the workshop side.
- Test different layouts. Sketch or digitally mock up options until you find the design that fits your workflow best.
Design a Custom Shed
As the vision of your perfect shed starts to come together in your mind, one thing should be clear – American Carports, Inc. is the ideal partner to make it happen. Our countless customization options make it easy to create precisely what you want, and since you’ll be getting a metal shed, it will be affordable and built to last. Get started today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper: a garden shed or a workshop shed?
Garden sheds are generally more affordable because they are smaller and simpler.
What size shed is best for a workshop?
Most workshops start at 12×16 ft or larger to allow room for tools, benches, and movement.
Do workshop sheds need electricity?
Not always, but if you plan on using power tools or lighting, adding electricity is recommended.
How do I order a custom shed?
Use our Build & Price Tool or contact American Carports, Inc. to start designing your shed today.
