With summer quickly approaching, we’re increasingly busy at Summerwood designing and customizing our outdoor structures to fit the individual requirements of our customers. Often during the process, our customers ask “well, which shed is the most popular option?” We don’t have a favourite, as we know choosing the right shed is a matter of personal taste. But, over the years there certainly have been a few that we find ourselves building over and over. Although the style of shed chosen may be the same, what each client chooses to do with it varies. Being able to pick everything from roof lines and shingles to windows and doors ensures that the end result is picture perfect. However, it can also be daunting and overwhelming to start from scratch. So why not meet somewhere in the middle?

We’ve been in the shed business for over 20 years, so we’ve developed a style for everyone. Our customers start by choosing one that catches their eye, and tailor it to meet their needs. We’ve narrowed down our top 7 MOST POPULAR building designs chosen by our customers over the years. Each one is different, but yet the same. You’ll see what we mean!

Palmerston

The beloved Palmerston was an easy “top choice” as it is a definite favourite. It’s the quintessential shed in both appearance and function. Not only is it cute, its traditional gable roof design allows for some serious storage. The trusses support the roof structure, but they’re also a great spot to slide in a pair of skis, pool noodles or even a kayak. Is storage a priority for your structure? Then a gable end building may be the right choice as it allows you to take advantage of vertical space. Depending on the size of your shed, the options really are endless!

Palmerston Shed - Summerwood Products

Sonoma

Our Sonoma building is for those who prefer the look of a hip-roof. A hip-roof is one where all the sides meet in the middle, so you don’t have gable ends. We find that our customers often find themselves choosing between the Palmerston and Sonoma, and the roof becomes the determining factor. It’s all about function and what you plan to use your building for. A hip-roof means more head-room on the interior, so if you’re creating a pool cabana, office, or studio it’s a priority to have ceiling height. If you’re using your building to work or play, you’ll want an elevated roof so you feel comfortable in the space. If your structure is a storage space, perhaps roof height isn’t all that important. Design features can impact functionality, so make sure you consider how you will be using your building once it’s installed and looking great!

Sonoma Pool House - Summerwood Products

Urban Studio

If you’re looking for something a little more contemporary, these next two are for you. First up, our Urban Studio. This design puts a modern twist on the classic single-slope or “lean-to” shed roof design. Featuring a gentle 1/12 roof slope and 8′ front walls this design offers tons of flexibility, both from a style and practical standpoint. The Urban Studio is a great choice if you need a practical building, but don’t like the traditional look.  We’ve seen this building used as everything from a garden shed to a yoga studio, from a workout room to a home office. Don’t let its name fool you, this “Urban Studio” will be whatever you need it to be!

Urban Studio as a tree house? Why not!

Urban Studio as a tree house? Why not!

Verana

Often confused with the Urban Studio, The Verana borrows elements from its sister building but really bumps up the flair! Four feet of front overhang provides a large covered area for sitting or keeping dry during a summer rain storm. If you’re looking for a contemporary look that offers an instant porch, keep that in mind.  The 2 feet of overhang on the sides adds a dramatic modern touch that complements the overall look. Our Verana building is also a step-up as it includes wall sheathing and house wrap, a must-have for making the building usable in all four seasons of the year. Who ever said an all-season office can’t look this good? Of course it can!

Verana Pool House - Summerwood Products

Glen Echo

This building’s principle feature is unquestionably its extended roof line. Why is that so handy? Well, the 3 foot overhang creates a lovely porch space all on its own, but it also does a whole lot more. As you can imagine the inside truss support works well as extra storage space, which is drawn-out. But what else can you do with all of this interior roof space? Our customers have got that one figured out.

Glen Echo Garden Shed - Summerwood Products

The most popular version of the Glen Echo building is our Glen Echo Bunkie. Our clients took one look at the extended roof line and started asking about loft space, drop down ladders and some much more. So we gave it to them! Whether you choose the shed or bunkie version of the Glen Echo, it’s easy to leave the trusses as is, or install a loft. How big or small is up to you of course, but that overhang really comes in handy should you need extra sleeping space for friends and family up in the loft. An extra 3 feet that doesn’t affect your footprint? Now that’s how you squeeze out space! Read more: “Spring Best Seller: Permit Free Cottage Bunkie”

Glen Echo - Bunkie Cabin - Summerwood Products

Catalina

So what if a square or rectangular shape just doesn’t work for you or your yard? Perhaps you don’t have a lot of room and would prefer your building fit snugly into the corner. Our Catalina building loves corners! Its 5 sided design makes it easy to maximize interior space, while minimizing the impact in your backyard.

Catalina 5 Sided Shed - Summerwood Products

The roof of the Catalina is open, which allows for a lot of vertical room as well. It’s the perfect option when not much else seems to work, or you’re dealing with an irregularly shaped space. 5 sided means doors and windows really can be placed anywhere. Large open and airy French doors can create a focal point. On the contrary, you can also choose a side and tuck a door away in the back. We’ve even had customers who have installed bar windows on one of the sides and created their very own outdoor mini-bar! Storage and entertainment all in one structure, now that’s creativity. Read more: “Our Five Sided Catalina Corner Building”

Bar Window - 5 Sided Shed Pool House - Summerwood Products

Sarawak

Sarawak - Leaning Shed - Summerwood Products

If lack of space is an ongoing battle, think Sarawak. We call this our “lean-to” shed as it rests nicely against a fence or the side of your house. Of course, it’s not actually leaning on anything, but the slope of the roof allows the building to integrate seamlessly with your existing layout. This design is easily incorporated, and provides storage without having a large impact on your yard. It’s perfect for bikes, equipment and whatever else you need to discreetly tuck away. Read more: “Sarawak: Quality You Can Lean On”

Sarawak - Leaning Shed - Summerwood Products

Designing you dream backyard building doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or grueling, as long as you have a place to start. Functionality is imperative, but ensuring that the look of the structure meets your personal style is no less important. Our design experts can help ensure that the end result is both practical and appealing and will assist you every step of the way. Now let the brainstorming begin!

Our interactive Design Center allows you start creating right away. Choose the building that catches your eye, drag and drop to start customizing. Don’t worry, there’s no commitment or limit to how many structures you design. Contact us and share your vision with one of our designers to make your perfect creation a reality. Have fun!

By Published On: May 24th, 2016Categories: Get Inspired

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