Workshop Sheds: Planning a Space You Can Work In

Concept Design

How big should a workshop shed be?

A standard workbench is about 2 feet deep and 6 to 8 feet long. Add at least 3 feet of standing room in front of it, plus space for tool storage and whatever you're working on, and you can see why most workshop shoppers look at 10×16 or 12×16. If you also need to park a mower or store lumber, or you want a table saw with infeed and outfeed room, a 12×20 or larger footprint may make more sense.

See the size guide for more detail. These are general starting points, not guaranteed recommendations.

Features worth asking about

• Extra windows for natural light and cross-breeze. Workshop buyers often ask for more windows than any other shed shopper.
• Electrical prep such as framing and conduit routing, so an electrician can add outlets and lighting. Wiring itself usually needs a licensed electrician and may need a permit.
• Taller walls for overhead clearance and wall-mounted storage.
• Double doors and a ramp for moving equipment and sheet goods in and out.
• A built-in workbench and shelving, which some builders offer as options.
• Insulation and interior walls if you plan to work there in Pennsylvania winters.

Which styles work best?

Styles with taller sidewalls tend to work best for shops. A modern single-slope studio shed leaves room for a row of high windows. A cottage shed or peak shed gives a traditional look with good headroom. If you need vehicle access too, look at garage-style structures with an overhead door.

Using a workshop as a hobby space or office

The same structure works for art studios, home offices, home gyms, and music rooms. The planning questions are similar: how much natural light you want, whether you need power and climate control, and how you'll use the floor space.