When it comes to our landscapes and gardens, it can be a challenge to find the right size of outdoor building. Sheds, cabins, and even simple storage containers can all be difficult to find in just the right size we need. With our gardens, especially in a place like Plymouth, where gardens tend to be so expansive, you can find yourself in a constant state of analysis. Measuring. Looking into where your next shed would be most effective. Where will it get the most (or least) sun? Is it too large? Too small? These questions can become a real headache, right? Well, with Plymouth Sheds, we know your struggle. Many of our clients get in touch with us before they order with a simple question. They ask: What size garden shed is right for my Plymouth home? Unfortunately, there is no cut-and-dried answer. Every garden is different, as are the needs of each individual. What one person intends to use a storage shed for, another wishes to have an outdoor work space or a social spot. There are many questions to answer. So, where do you start? The First Question: What Will You Use Your Shed For? A garden shed can be used for so many things. Some of us use our shed for storing landscape equipment and furniture. Others use it for a space they can escape to for some solitude and peace. Some even use their garden shed as a place to craft, carry out their hobbies, or store their passions. There is no right or wrong answer here, of course, but you first need to determine what you will use your new garden shed for. That will determine a lot of the questions about sizing and dimensions. If you intend to just use a garden shed for storing small landscaping tools and equipment, you can safely go smaller. Yet, if you prefer to use your garden shed for a bit of arts and crafting, like pottery, flower-potting, or woodcrafting, for example, you probably need a larger space. If your shed will be used for more than just storage, you need to factor in a few different additions. For one, you will have your crafting table (or similar) as well as storage for both your crafting ingredients and finished goods. What About Scalability? There is also the important consideration of how seriously you intend to take this hobby or task. For example, you might only have a few landscaping tools now, so a smaller, narrower shed feels like the right choice. Yet, what if you really get into your landscaping? Or does your hobby expand to new levels? Will you need more space for storage and supplies? It stands to reason that almost any hobby that you truly enjoy will, with the right conditions, become a larger part of your life. Keep that in mind, as it might help you to avoid buying something only suitable for what you already own. As you become more immersed in a subject or hobby, you might need more space in the future. It would, generally, be better to have a little too much space initially that you can eventually fill than to quickly find you need a larger shed in the near future. Planning Permission: Do You Need It? While not cut and dried, you will likely need planning permission for any garden sheds exceeding a certain size. For example, any garden sheds that are above 2.5 metres in height and come within 2 metres of a boundary will require you to get planning permission. We would suggest contacting Plymouth City Council before you proceed. This will give you an idea of whether or not your new garden shed will require planning permission. Consider Head Height Speaking of shed height, you always want to get something that gives you enough height to move around relatively unrestricted. Especially for taller people, you don’t want to be spending all day crouched over as you work in your shed! Always make sure that you consider head height as part of your analysis of the right garden shed for your Plymouth home. Also, remember that the taller your shed is, the more support it needs and also the more shadow it will give off. Is a larger, taller shed going to leave your prime growing spots in your garden covered in shadow? These are important considerations that often go undiscussed. Avoiding Cramped Access Points Generally, you should also make sure that you can get in and out of your shed without feeling like you are having to fit through a small gap. It is better to have easy access in and out of your shed, even if it means having a slightly smaller model than you first assumed. Access, especially when carrying your tools or something you have created, is vital to ensure you do not bump anything or scratch your shed. It might be worth considering different angles for installation so you get the best access overall. What About Windows? In the past, we have come across many shed owners who have not accounted for doors and windows being open. When you measure out the space you have for your shed, always factor in the distance your doors and windows take up when open. If your shed spacing already feels a little tight with just the original dimensions, you need to add on a few centimetres at least for the windows/doors opening. Again, it might be better to have a smaller shed that you can ventilate properly with wide-open doors and windows. Besides, you can always… Consider Using Interior Storage To Save Space At Plymouth Sheds, one of our main recommendations is to make the most of the space you have inside. Efficiency is always important; tool towers, tool chests, and wall storage all give you the chance to get more out of your garden shed space. These little storage facilities can reduce the need for a larger shed as you can maximise the space you have, as opposed to needing more space that you can use inefficiently. Take Your Budget Into Account Lastly, make sure that you factor in how much money you are willing to spend on a garden shed. At Plymouth Sheds, we have a fantastic range of high-quality shed products that come in all shapes, sizes and styles. As such, you should be able to find something that is budget-suitable whilst also giving you the amount of space you need. Take a look at our range of sheds, and you should be able to get an appreciation for what size of shed your budget allows for. Sometimes, it is easier to browse stock with a set budget in mind, as this means you know what kind of size you can realistically afford. That means you avoid overspending, but also buying something that might not be suitable for the size of your garden space. Need A Hand Making A Decision? Look, there is no easy way to work out precisely the size of the garden shed you need. You can take the dimensions we provide and measure them out in your garden. By adding on a few centimetres, you can then make sure you account for things like windows being open and the like. That gives you an ideal understanding of what kind of size(s) you have to pick from. Still, it can be tough to make the right call. If anything about your garden shed sizing becomes a hassle, call us. The Plymouth Sheds team are always here to take your calls and give you an insight into what kind of garden sheds will be most suitable for your budget and your requirements!