The She-Shed

Fondly named the “She-Shed” by the client early in the process, innovation and fun was encouraged. Particular care was taken during the design process, to develop a structure that could be mostly built by 2 people, using basic construction techniques and materials that were readily available locally. The plot benefits from a well considered landscaped garden, with large mature trees, a perimeter brook and feature rills. The orientation of the building works with the design, acknowledging the features and framing key views back towards the house. Mostly clad in locally sourced metal sheeting, the elevations use the warmth of the western red cedar shingles and framing to openings, to create a playful facade. A recessed corner announces the vibrant entrance door, set into a shingle clad surround with vertical cedar strips providing articulation between the 2 cladding materials. A high level ‘pelmet’ of cladding wraps the corner over before returning down to ground. Bespoke frameless windows were created onsite by the joiner, using re-purposed glazed units from a dis-assembled conservatory. These are set at varying heights to work with storage and seating positions and to frame up key views. Internally, the walls are lined with simple plywood sheeting with roof joists expressed. All are painted white for uniformity, allowing for paintings / textiles and varying trinkets to be displayed.OJR