Thanks to Simpson Strong-Tie for partnering with me on my farmhouse style dream she shed
Long before I even knew what a she-shed was, I dreamed of one. Of course, when I was a little girl we called it a playhouse. But oh how I dreamed of having my own little place to escape and drink my Yoo-Hoo and eat my animal crackers.
As I grew up, so did my dreams of having my own little space – and even more so as I began to blog and create new things to share with you here. My house is pretty small – and there’s just not enough room for us to keep running a blog + have a somewhat orderly home. So my husband built me my very own she shed that is now our new office.
I’ve got to admit: this was the hardest project I’ve ever tackled. We did everything ourselves from digging holes to putting on the siding. Every detail was done with our four hands.
Going into this, I thought it would take about 8 weeks. Oh how naive I was. Eight long, hard months later, my she shed is finally complete.
While my husband did all of the thought on planning and building and all the technical stuff that’s not my strong suit, I could just see these beams in my head. I knew they would be the thing that made my heart go pitter-patter. Exposed wood…. metal connector plates…. Sigh.
Of course, the trusses were way beyond our level of expertise, so we outsourced it to a local contractor, asking him to use Simpson Strong-Tie truss connectors. (BTW – can you believe he only charged us $75 for each truss?!? I’m not sure we could have built them ourselves for that cheap.) Other than those trusses, we did everything else.
Those trusses were my first big “design” choice. No matter what, we were going to have them. It took me 3 hours of working with the contractor to create plans for sturdy trusses that would hold the weight – and they do it beautifully.
Besides them partnering with us on this project, this really is the she shed that Simpson Strong-Tie built. From joist hangers to ceiling components, when we needed two pieces of wood to be held together securely, then we checked to see if they had a product (and they usually do!)
After all the hardcore DIY was done, then came the fun part: DECORATING! I’ve had a blast creating my dream space. All our hard work came together to create a beautiful backdrop.
Shiplap and dark floors and exposed trusses – OH MY! It’s she shed heaven.
Of course, it wouldn’t be “Gina” if there weren’t some non-traditional elements. Like those tool boxes. They are big enough to store all my craft supplies and props that were slowly taking over our house. There’s even drawers big enough for sewing machines, etc.
So much storage! I even have a little room left… just in case I need to shop or something *haha!*
Of course, it’s not just about looking pretty – it has to be functional, too! Since we build furniture to share the plans with you, we needed a space to photograph it, rain or shine, snow or heat wave.
But it really has been fun to decorate. Like a lot of fun. I’ve kind of neglected my house for a year to get this project finished – so doing all the pretty touches at the end makes me excited to work on the actual living spaces in my home that are now craft-supply-free.
But I’ve got to admit, I might not have the heart to bring in a Yoo-Hoo.
Because I do actually have to get some work done and not just sit around.
But if you want to come and sit around with me, I’m sure I could round up some chocolate somewhere. And we’d be all cozy while crafting in my new dream office that is safe & secure thanks to Simpson Strong-Tie.
PS – to find all the sources – CLICK HERE
Thanks to Simpson Strong-Tie for sponsoring this post. All words, photos & opinions are 100% my own.
Denise says
Oh my goodness Gina! This is awesome and beautiful! My hubby keeps saying he wants a shed for all my stuff. I might just agree to it if it looks like this!
Gina Luker says
Thanks Denise! Get him to build you one 🙂
Barbara Garrett says
Oh Gina, it’s just amazing and beautiful and functional and about 20 other gushy adjectives I could easily throw in. I am jealous with a capital J. But you have inspired me to get off my butt and create a space where I can work, instead of being scattered all over the house. I think it would be so easy to focus more. But first…did you say something about chocolate? 😀 Y’all did good. REAL good. xxoo
Gina Luker says
LOL Barb! Thanks so much for all the “gushy” adjectives 🙂
Debbie @ Refresh Restyle says
Love it Gina! I want one 🙂
April says
Me too!
Jen @beautyandbedlam.com says
It’s unbelievable how perfect it is!! Every detail! You did an amazing job , friend. Yay to Simpson strong tie for partnering with you on such a great project. I need to look into their products when we finish off our attic this year.
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Jen! Definitely give them a look 🙂
Mary Beth says
Gina, your she-shed is absolutely beautiful. It put a smile on my face and now I’m thinking I want a house like this! 🙂 a bit bigger with a kitchen and a bathroom and I’d be all set. Thanks so much for sharing…it is a thing of beauty and you’re decorating is perfection (as always!).
Gina Luker says
Thank you Mary Beth, you are so sweet!
Kimm at Reinvented says
Oh my goodness, Gina, it is sheer she she’s perfection! Beautiful, functional and so you. I’m on my way down to relax on that couch! 🙂
Lindsay Eidahl says
It is such a gorgeous space for you to work and create in! All the hard work paid off! Enjoy it!!! I will come to the first sleepover in it! 😉
Lisa @ Cooking with Curls says
Wow, that is amazing Gina…I want one!!
Marian L says
WOW! What an incredible space and amazing accomplishment! You and the hubs are incredibly creative and it’s wonderful that you work so well together. Congratulations!
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Marian!!
Deb W. says
Your she shed looks perfect. I’m so jealous! Cheers to many happy years there.
Gina Luker says
Thanks Deb!
Stacy Risenmay says
Gina it’s beautiful!!!! I love every detail 🙂
Gina Luker says
Thanks Stacy!
Jessica says
I completely adore your shed! Love the colors and all the little touches of “Gina”! Well done!
Gina Luker says
Yea! Thanks Jessica!!
KariAnne Wood says
Gina,
Every detail is perfect! Especially those trusses!
YOU GO GIRL!
karianne
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Karianne!!
Deneen Glidwell says
Beautiful! That exposed wood on ceiling is amazing!
Gina Luker says
Thanks Deneen! 🙂
Marty Walden says
Wow. It’s functional AND gorgeous? Score one for you! Great job!
Gina Luker says
Thanks Marty!
Natalie Gallagher says
My heart skipped a beat when I took this virtual tour…all of your sweat and tears were totally worth it. Gorgeous my Dear! I can only dream of having such a wonderful place to spend my working hours…
Gina Luker says
Aww, thanks so much Natalie!!
Karen Ploransky says
You have outdone yourselves! What a gorgeous space, all that light and shiplap and those trusses! A great place to work (and play)!
Congratulations on a job well done!
Emily says
It looks beautiful!!! You did such a great job and I bet it is nice to be able to enjoy the finished product after all that hard work.
Gina Luker says
Thanks Emily, and it sure is 🙂
Jami says
Wha-hoo,it’s done and so beautiful! Great job. 🙂
Gina Luker says
Thanks Jami! Wha-hoo!!!
Vanessa says
Gina,
This is amazing and gorgeous She Shed. I am so jealous you have to stunning place to work and create. Wow, love all the colors it’s warm and inviting and I wish I was a fly so I could enjoy it too. LOL, Hands down my favorite and you guys rocked it.
Allison says
Gina- it is beautiful! I love every aspect of your new she shed!!
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Allison 🙂
Suzanna Renaud says
That is just absolutely amazing! I can imagine that it would be so inspiring and relaxing and FUN to work in that space! I love it! Congrats on your new space! You and your husband did an incredible job, all the details are just beautiful!
Daphne says
Gorgeous! Love it! Would love info on the gorgeous windows. Wood,vinyl? White from the outside /black inside? Custom?Tia
Gina Luker says
Thanks Daphne! The door and the windows came from Southern Accents Architectural Antiques in Cullman, AL. Yes, white on the outside and black inside. Here is a link to all of my sources for my new studio 🙂 http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/farmhouse-decor.html
Beverly D Flores says
I saw your live our and it was fabulous! Your studio is as lovely as you. What a wonderful place you have created. You can see all the love yu have put into it. Hugs, Beverly
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Beverly 🙂 It was a labor of love!
Terry Moore says
I adore your new space and it’s beauty. Is it heated and cooled?
Gina Luker says
Thanks Terry! Yes it does have heat and air installed 🙂
Karyn says
Bravo Gina!
Gina Luker says
Thanks Karyn 🙂
Katie says
This is absolutely beautiful, what an inspiring space to work and hang out in! Those trusses are freakin’ fantastic and I love the rug too 🙂
And now I’m craving animal crackers…
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Katie! LOL 🙂
Kathleen Hornbecker says
If the sofa opens up into a bed…then I’m ready to move in!!!!! Absolutely gorgeous…I love the trusses! the building and all the decor makes me drool. Congrats on the rewards of your hard and long project.
Catherine says
Gina. You’ve given me much inspiration for my shed too. I want to use mine as a classroom/craftroom/sunroom. I love the height you’ve achieved. I must now crack on with a plan!
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Catherine! Go for it, you will be so happy you did it and the hard work totally pays off 🙂 Good luck!
Linda says
Oh Gina! That is just WOW!!! If I may ask, what is the square foot of your “Shangri-La”? The inside looks twice as big and the picture of the outside. Y’all did an Awesome job! Congratulations and enjoy!
Gina Luker says
Thanks Linda! It is 576 sq feet 🙂
Belinda says
Wow! I love the She Shed, especially those trusses! Great job!
Belinda says
Where did you buy those wooden beads?
Gina Luker says
They’re just craft store wood beads on a piece of jute string – super easy to make 🙂
Robin says
I am speechless! To say its beautiful….is not enough!
Its over the top! You thought of everything….from Simpson-
strong-ties to the pillow on the sofa! You truly have a she shed fit for a Queen….I love your blog and have used so
many of your ideas. Almost a year ago my husband and I
bought a 1976 double wide in
the mountains of California. We live in the town of Paradise!
Every room in this double wide
needs something done…I felt
overwhelmed….then I ran across your blog! Your blog gave me courage to tackle
what needed to be done.
I say Thank You for your wonderful ideas that have given this 69 yr hope that
we live in a beautiful place.
God Bless
Gina Luker says
You are so sweet Robin, thank you!! You made my day 🙂
Tara says
It turned out AMAZING! Your and your hubs ROCK!!
Melissa Leach says
I am over the moon happy for you! I love all the details, those beams make me drool . Looking forward to lots of awesome projects completed in your greatest project, your She shed.
Diane @ An Extraordinary Day says
Gina… you knocked this out dream out of the park. It’s truly extraordinary! How fun to have a place to do everything we bloggers do. Plus… I bet it might make a fine space for a “she” party, too. I am totally smitten with those windows. Stunning! And all that gorgeous light.
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Diane! I like the “she party” idea 🙂
Lisa says
love your she shed! hate the pop-ups every few seconds!
Rebekah says
Needs a swing!
Gina Luker says
Great idea Rebekah!
Amy @ StowandTellU says
Congrats on getting your studio done. I love everything about it. Top to bottom. Side to side. Here’s to enjoying your new space!!
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Amy! Here’s to you 🙂
Robin says
How fun! Good for you! We’re living in our friend’s basement apartment in Astoria, OR. We moved here 7 weeks ago. We’re doing everything we can to find our own home. I’ll be eager to use your site for great ideas to use in our new home.
Your mention of a “playhouse” bought up memories of the little house my dad built my sister and I when we were little. We used it all the way through high school! Our “gang” of lovely high school friends had fun in the little hangout!
Best to you! Keep up the great site…and fun!
I’m also inspired to write more and update my website. Thanks Gina!
Maria @ Pastels and Macarons says
Gina this space is A.M.A.Z.I.N.G! I simply love everything about it. It’s my dream. Well done to you and your husband for creating something so marvellous!
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Maria! Plenty o work but so worth it 🙂
Jessica says
Finally had the time to take your tour. It looks amazing, Gina! Congrats on your she shed.
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Jessica!
Angie Chavez at Knick of Time says
Your She Shed turned out amazing, Gina! I know how much I love mine and know you’ll adore yours too! You’ll have a hard time going back into your house and want to stay in your she shed all day!
Gina Luker says
Thanks Angie! I hear ya 🙂
Kathy Leach says
Absolutely beautiful. I know it’s wrong to covet, but…..LOL
Gina Luker says
Ha ha, thanks so much Kathy!
Lindsay @ The DIY Mommy says
Oh this is just beautiful! Not to mention functional! Great job! Love every detail
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Lindsay!
Teresa Pomerantz says
how big was your finished size, did you use a plan for this? I want one so bad, and I don’t mind building it with my own two hands, but can you give me an idea of the cost before the decorating?
Gina Luker says
Hi Teresa,
It’s 24×24 square, which is 576 sq ft. We didn’t use a plan – It was basically like building a deck, then building a big box on top of that. Before decorating, I think we spent around $25k. But – we used higher end flooring, somewhat expensive siding, etc. It could have been finished for a lot cheaper, but I wanted it to be *just* right. After years of remodeling my house over and over again because I could finally afford the better option versus using what I had to in the beginning, I knew I didn’t want to renovate this space. So I chose some options that added significantly to the budget. I think if you went on a budget route (depending on the price of materials in your area), you could possibly build it for as little as $15k. Mine is HUGE though – I’m not sure everyone needs that much space. I had to have room for multiple camera set ups as well as light kits & other equipment all at once. Definitely do the math on a smaller space and you might be surprised at the total cost. Hope that helps!
Mary @IowaSewCrafty says
Oh so lovely! You did an amazing job.
Gina Luker says
Thank you Mary 🙂
Donna Dodson says
Gina, this is amazing!
From the exterior to the interior. Fantastic! I know how proud you must be.
Happy for you.
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much, I do absolutely love it 🙂
Lisa says
Now my wheels are really going. I just sent this to my hubby to read. 🙂 Dream BOARD!
Gina Luker says
Oh yea! Thanks Lisa, I hope you get one too!!
Dee Dee Keigans says
I just had to check out your she shed office space because we are making plans to build mine soon!! Eeekkk!! I’m so glad that I tracked down all the photos because your entire space has me drooling and all my wheels turning!! Absolutely stunning!! The only think better would be coming to hang out with you in this amazing space!!
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Dee Dee! Good luck on your she shed, I hope you enjoy yours as much as I do mine 🙂
Jean says
Love the project and it is very pretty. Thank you for sharing. Jean
Gina Luker says
Thanks so much Jean 🙂