Add a Bathroom and Kitchenette to a Shed – Here’s How
Looking to add some small-space living amenities to your backyard shed? Converting an unused shed into a cozy little retreat with a kitchenette and bathroom can provide extra living space for guests or family members. With some planning and elbow grease, you can have a fully-functional mini home on a budget.
We'll cover planning considerations, layout and design, must-have appliances, and tips for maximizing your small square footage. Let's dive in!
Choosing and Preparing Your Shed
Not all sheds are created equal when it comes to conversion potential. Here's what to look for when choosing which shed to transform:
Shed Requirements
For comfortable functionality, look for a shed that's at least 8 x 10 feet in size. Having enough height for a loft sleeping area is also useful. Wood sheds offer flexibility, while metal and resin sheds are lower maintenance.
Be sure to check local zoning laws and permit requirements first, as certain regulations will apply for inhabitable spaces.
Evaluating Electrical and Plumbing
Determine if your shed has existing electrical. If not, you'll need to run new wiring which will add cost. Look into whether hooking up to your home's sewer/septic system is possible for the bathroom plumbing.
If connecting to the main plumbing is difficult, you can opt for off-grid solutions like composting or portable toilets instead.
Kitchenette Design and Layout
A kitchenette doesn't need much to cover the basics for temporary living. With some creative planning, you can tuck all the essentials into a compact shed footprint.
Space Planning
Arranging your appliances and furnishings along the walls maximizes precious square footage. Zone areas for key kitchen tasks like food prep and clean-up. Allow enough workspace around appliances for opening doors and drawers.
Think in terms of workflow when deciding on layout. Group appliances according to cooking steps, with the refrigerator next to the prep space, the sink nearby for cleaning, etc.
Essential Appliances
For ultra-compact cooking, an induction cooktop, mini-fridge, and sink with faucet handle the key needs. Stash cooking tools and meal supplies in shelves, cabinets or freestanding storage units.
Optimize storage nooks like the space under the stairs or loft area. Multi-tiered shelving doubles your display real estate.
Optional Appliances
Additional niceties like a microwave, coffee station, portable dishwasher or combination washer/dryer add convenience. Just be sure to measure carefully to ensure appliances fit without eating up valuable floorspace.
Adding Bathroom Facilities
Now let's look at fitting bathroom necessities like a toilet, sink, and shower into your shed makeover.
Toilet Options
For off-grid convenience, composting and portable toilets are great choices requiring no plumbing. Or, install a small flush toilet if you can tie into the existing plumbing.
Sink
Wall-mounted sinks take up minimal space. Look for models with built-in storage cabinets for extra function. Ensure proper drainage is in place.
Shower Stall
Prefab fiberglass or acrylic shower stalls with curtains or doors are simple to install. Connect to drain pipes or collect gray water for off-grid use.
Furnishings and Storage
Multipurpose, space-saving furniture is key for optimizing every inch. Built-ins and shelving also help maximize usable space.
Murphy Beds, Futons, and Convertibles
Fold-down Murphy beds, futons, and sleeper sofas seamlessly tuck away when not in use. Loft sleeping nooks are another space-savvy option.
Multi-functional Furniture
Look for storage ottomans, drop-leaf dining tables, modular bookcases, and other furnishings doing double duty. The right pieces allow you to get ready in the morning, work, dine, lounge, and sleep in a small footprint.
Take advantage of awkward angled nooks for custom built-ins. Wall-mounted shelving and cubby units maximize vertical storage. Freestanding shelving on wheels provides flexible space division.
With some upfront planning and elbow grease, you can convert a basic shed into a comfortably livable mini-home. Get creative with space-saving layouts and multipurpose furniture to add bathroom and kitchenette functionality within a tight footprint. Your backyard retreat awaits!