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This Garden Shed is approximately 3.5 x 2m. We're based in the Macedon Ranges so insulation/heating will be critical if this is to become an effective home office.
Need suggestions for where to start (cladding and insulation, sanding and polishing the floor boards, opening up the side entrance to allow for more light and adding a sliding door, painting, decking) Any suggestions on the best form of cladding/insulation to add to the existing frame? I came across this page on Better Homes and Gardens, which has certainly provided a lot of inspiration: https://www.bhg.com.au/homes/diy/office-shed/
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @bm_rphy. It's terrific to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about turning a shed into an outdoor office.
First, before you begin internal work, check that your shed is weatherproof and structurally sound. If there's any moisture getting in or rot in the floor or framing, those issues will need to be addressed first. Once that's sorted, you can think about insulation. For a climate like yours, I’d recommend using rigid foam board or Earthwool batts between the wall studs and in the ceiling. If your walls are thin, consider battening out the framing so there's enough depth for effective insulation. You’ll also want a decent vapour barrier to prevent condensation from becoming an issue.
Cladding-wise, ply or MDF panels are an easy, cost-effective choice for internal walls and can be painted or finished however you like. For a more homely look, lining boards or even VJ panelling would make it feel less like a shed and more like a room. If the current shed floor is timber, sanding and polishing it could give a lovely finish, but be sure to assess whether it needs reinforcing or insulating from underneath as well.
Adding a sliding door is a great idea, especially to maximise light and make the space more inviting. Just make sure the structural frame can handle the modification, and if you're not confident with that part, a builder might be worth consulting for the doorway.
Finally, a small deck outside will not only improve accessibility but also make it feel more like a genuine extension of your home.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
