How to build a room in existing shed?

Question

hi

Please ideas on building room in existing shed. With a door.

Please see photos

Looking forward to hearing your expertise ideas.

Plus would like to add a window.

JacobZ · Answer

Hi @Penguin,

There can often be issues converting sheds into living spaces; however I'd say an art studio would be fine. In saying this, it is still worthwhile checking with your local council to see if you have any requirements in terms of building approval just to be sure.

Have you got an idea of where the wall or walls will run?

You need to consider how they would tie into the existing structure to ensure that they are sturdy. Typically, this involves attaching the top plate to the battens and the bottom plate to the concrete slab using masonry anchors.

Once you have your placement, building a wall is relatively simple. You can check out

https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/home-improvement/walls/how-to-build-a-stud-wall

for a bit of guidance on how to build a simple non-structural wall.

The complexity in your wall will come from the window and door, but again, this is not too difficult as long as you have the overall measurements of the window and door you are going to be installing. Oftentimes, the manufacturers of windows and doors will give you dimensions for a "rough frame opening", which will need to be built into the wall. Our supplier Hyne Timber has a good example of the framing required for both a window opening and a door here -

https://www.hyne.com.au/article/frame-and-truss-components

.

If you can advise a basic layout, we can certainly assist further if required.

Jacob

Penguin · Answer

Thanks EricL

The room is going to be for Art studio, so just a basic room.

EricL · Answer

Hello @Penguin

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about building a room in your shed.

It's a fantastic project to be undertaking! However, before you begin, I suggest checking your local council's rules and regulations in regards to shed conversions.

I suggest having a quick look at these discussions:

* How to covert shed to habitable room? by @ShaneGty 
* How to convert Easyshed louvre window and doors to be habitable? by @renzo75 
* How to convert a carport into a room? by @Tariq

Adding walls, insulation electrical or plumbing services is definitely achievable. But these must pass the rules and regulations of the council. In order to expedite the conversion process, I propose engaging the services of a local registered builder who's had experience with room conversions. They will have a general idea on what permits you'll need to get and what materials you'll need for the upgrade.

Here are some discussions about conversions:

* Garage converted into two bedrooms by @richmac 
* Garage converted into loungeroom by @littleladyirish  
* Old shed converted to games room by @wooshka

My best advice is to draw your plan on a piece of paper and indicate how big the room you want to be and where the window will be located along with its size. You can then discuss it with your builder and quantify what you'll need to add that room in your shed.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric