How to Convert a Shed Into an Office

Are you ready to be highly productive and way more work efficient than you have ever been before?!

If you are tired of competing with the distractions of working in the home, then get ready to prepare for yourself a workspace that will change your life.

Seriously. The ripple effects of even small changes can be huge!

Enjoy taking the following steps to converting a shed into a home office shed!

10 Steps to Convert A Shed Into an Office

Step 1: Build, Buy, or Use Your Current Shed (Choose Your Ideal Shed Style or Size)

Step 2: Check with Your Local Township to See if You Need a Permit

Depending upon your county, state, or homeowner’s association, you may or may not need a permit. For the most part, in Oregon, you do not need a permit unless your shed’s square footage exceeds 200 square feet (a 10×20 shed).

However, even if you are in Oregon, it is still wise to check in with your local township.  You can learn more helpful details about the permitting process and preparing your shed’s foundation (which is very important).

Step 3: Add Windows for Natural Lighting (Important step to incorporate in Step 1)

Step 4: Get Your Shed Insulated

Whether you live in the frigid cold of the north or the sweltering heat of the south, you most likely will want to invest in insulation for your office shed.

Insulation helps keep your shed warmer and cooler.

Plus, it helps keep your electricity costs down when you run a heater or AC inside your office thanks to its insulating properties.

Your two best options are either:

• Foam Board

• Spray Foam

If you do not want to DIY your insulation, reach out to local contractor to see if they could do the job for you.

Step 5: Choose Doors with Reliable Locks

Since you will be leaving your expensive electronics (aka. your computer, monitors, etc.) overnight in your home office shed, you will want a door that locks. And one that locks well!

For extra protection you can also add a bolt lock and video surveillance.

Step 6: Add an Electrical Connection (Figure Out Your Electrical Needs)

The cheapest way to add electricity is to do it DIY. Depending upon your setting and electrical needs going DIY could cost anywhere from $100-$600.

Check out this DIY video on adding electricity to your shed to see if that is something that you have the skills and time for.

Hiring a contractor can cost anywhere from $1,000 – $4,000.

If you do not have experience or knowledge with electrical work, it is in your best interest to hire an experienced electrician so that the job gets done right. 

Step 7: Cover Your Walls with Something

Even if you bypassed insulation (but especially if you did decide to insulate), you may want to create a more professional look inside your shed office.

Popular sheeting options for your shed converted into an office are:

• Drywall – Cheapest option

If you are DIY’ing the process, check out the video below for some guidance or inspiration.

plywood can be more expensive, however, it can be an easier process.

• Shiplap – Most expensive option

Step 8: Paint

Wow, by this step you are closer than ever to the completion of your office shed!! What an exhilarating feeling! Way to go!

For this step, you will want to choose a color that inspires your drive to get things done and focus.

White or off colored white often proves to be a popular choice in an office space. However, neutral colors such as tans and beiges work well also.

Of course, a splash of color always adds a bit more jazz or character so paint on those walls whatever makes you feel good and motivated!

Step 9: Install Flooring

By this point your shed floor is going to be begging for some love. ????

Here are some shed flooring options for you.

• Water-Proof Vinyl Plank Flooring – Highly recommended (how-to video here)
• Carpet (how-to video here)
• Laminate – Note: Not moisture friendly
• Engineered Hardwood
• Floor Paint – this is a very economical way to give your office space a professional look.

Step 10: Add Furniture & Personal Décor

Yes! This is the final and most enjoyable step. Now is the time to really claim your office space for your own.

It’s moving day! Time to bring in your desk, office chair, computer, couch, pictures, and more! This step is ALL you! ⭐️

Be FURTHER INSPIRED & Amused ????

Check out this epic shed converted into an home office shed for even more inspiration!

The decision to convert a shed into an office shed is a fantastic way to expand your living space without the expense of a full addition to your house. Plus it will give you all the privacy you need. Then sit back and watch your productivity skyrocket.