How to Complete a Shed Conversion to an Office [UPDATED]

Forest Melbury 4m x 3m Log Cabin (34mm) (Double Glazed) - Click HERE to View

The Utopian vision of working from home, relaxed by birdsong and totally immersed in nature, yet still producing results even the most ferocious of employers would reward is achievable – if you’ve got somewhere to work. That’s where your shed comes in.
Adapting an existing shed to become a fully functioning workspace is relatively easy.

Read on as we provide dozens of shed office ideas and “crack the code” for how to complete a shed conversion to an office.

Editor’s Note [05.12.2024]:
Our original article “How to Manage a Shed Conversion to an Office” was originally published on October 27, 2016. Today has seen a major update throughout the article. In addition, we have added the following new sections - detailed shed conversion to an office plan, installing essentials, heating options, adding décor, and insurance advice.

You have to have a shed that is capable of taking a few adjustments. Be honest – if one side of your shed looks like Edam cheese, thanks to the local mouse population, and rotten flooring collapses underfoot, then it will take some money to put right. It may even be better to scrap the whole lot and buy something readymade. Only you know the state of your shed. If you do think you need to buy a new shed, click here to explore our garden offices or click on any of the product images below.

Converting a shed into a garden office is a great way to have an office space at home. By thoroughly considering garden office planning and obtaining planning permission you can turn your existing shed into a comfortable working environment.

A shed conversion to an office plan is essential before you start any work. It helps you to assess the state of your garden shed, to see if it can accommodate the necessary upgrades, such as insulation and damp proofing. Garden office planning ahead allows you to include everything you need in your new office shed from office bits to power sources, and make sure your design meets building regulations. It also makes budgeting easier, so you do not make costly mistakes later.

Defining your exact needs will be the key to a successful garden office conversion. Start by thinking about how you will use the space, working remotely from home, running your own business or other tasks. Make sure you include furniture, storage and office equipment in the design. You should also think about utilities like electricity, heating and Wi-Fi signal and where the mains electricity will come from. These will determine how comfortable your workspace will be all year round, including energy efficient solutions like underfloor heating or electric radiators.

Positioning garden sheds is crucial to get the most natural light and energy efficiency. Consider how far your new office will be from your house when planning the utilities. For a peaceful working environment, position it far enough away to reduce distractions but close enough to save on cable laying or Wi-Fi boosters. Make sure you consider the light, considering the direction of your shed’s windows and the view which will impact your work life balance. Think about obstructions like trees or overhanging branches as a part of your garden office planning as this will affect both natural light and future maintenance.

Waterproofing is important in preventing moisture from damaging your garden office. An existing shed may already have some protection, but a garden office needs more to cope with equipment and documents. Without proper waterproofing, your new office could be prone to mould and other issues that can affect your work life balance. Make sure you use the right materials to fully protect your office from moisture especially when you turn a shed into an office.

To keep your laptop charged and the lights on, you will need power for your garden office. We cover this in a separate blog here but, essentially, if you want to connect to mains electricity you will need to use a qualified electrician.

Also, do not forget to install extra sockets for all your office equipment and your office space. Having extra sockets will save space and keep everything tidy, a must for a comfortable office space. Proper electrical work will make your garden office energy-efficient and compliant with building regulations.

Including energy-efficient solutions like LED lighting or solar panels will also save you money, it is a cost-effective solution. By planning for the future and having enough power you will create a peaceful working environment that supports your work life balance.

There are other advanced solar options in the blog that you can consider too. Click on the image of the solar hub to find out more.

Connecting water to your shed office can be an expensive addition if your garden shed is far from the main house. While having a water supply is lovely, it may not be necessary if you can use bottled water or get to the main house quickly. For most garden offices this is a luxury, not a necessity. The cost of plumbing for a tap or small sink may not be worth it if most of the office work does not require running water.

Now we need to add some shed office ideas which we consider comforts, so we discuss below adding insulation, ventilation, heating, office furniture and décor.

With your shed powered and connected, you have to make it comfortable. And that starts with insulation. Cold toes or a sweaty neck are not conducive to good work.

To keep your garden office warm in the colder months, consider an electric radiator or underfloor heating. These will not only warm the space but also make for a peaceful working environment.

Also, consider using insulation materials like mineral wool to retain heat and make your office space more energy efficient. Whatever heating solution you choose make sure you comply with building regulations for safety and efficiency in your existing shed.

A desk, chair and shelving are the bare essentials. Make sure you account for getting any larger pieces through the door. To add functionality to your garden office, consider extra storage furniture like a filing cabinet or wall-mounted shelves to keep your workspace tidy and make the most of the space. Clever storage solutions like magnetic strips for tools or document tubes for important papers will keep your office equipment organised and on hand. Do not forget to measure the larger items for the door.

If you add power, a kettle and mini fridge will prevent procrastinating walks to the kitchen. Rugs and curtains will soften rougher edges or even hide eyesores. When positioning your desk, consider your view out the window or door. Avoid placing the desk where glare will make using your laptop difficult.

Adding some thought to your office décor makes it feel like a warm space. Paint the walls in calming colours to create a peaceful vibe and add framed posters or personal artwork to your shed office. Living plants not only bring in nature but also improve air quality, and create a more peaceful working space.

You can also add cushions and rugs to make the space feel cosier and more welcoming. Magazine racks are a great way to keep your office bits and bobs organised and add visual interest to the shed. The right décor will make your shed office feel like an extension of your own business.

Chances are your garden office is now worth a few quid, especially when you add up the value of your PC, the office equipment such as a printer, that WI-FI booster or router, and all the other paraphernalia essential to great garden working. Security is a must and quality locks have to be top of your list. Security lighting is a necessity and even if you don’t have power running to your office, solar-powered versions do a great job. All types have motion sensors available.

Make sure you review your insurance policies regularly to ensure your garden office is covered. Changes to your expensive equipment or alterations to your existing shed may require changes to your policy to stay fully covered. By updating your insurance, you can protect your work life balance and for insurance purposes ensure your shed conversion to an office meets building regulations and your office needs.

In conclusion, turning your shed into a garden office requires thought and planning to create a comfy office space. Check your existing shed to see if it can be adapted or if a new shed is the way to go. A successful shed conversion to an office needs to consider the big 4: planning permission, building regulations and natural light and damp proofing. Be clear about what office furniture and equipment you will need to be able to work in your office shed.

Insulation is key to an energy efficient space; the right electrics will bring you up to date. Sound insulation and efficient heating like underfloor heating or electric radiators will make it peaceful. Add some thought to the décor and storage and you will make the most of the space and create a warm welcome. Follow this and you will turn your garden shed into a work haven that fits your work life balance.