The garden shed takes on new dimensions

17:01:20 25th January 2010

The humble garden shed is no longer perceived as a male domain containing the usual tools and handyman supplies, according to one gardening expert.

Writing for the Seattle Times, Valerie Easton states that modern-day garden sheds are being increasingly used for office retreats or quiet places to simply read or work.

"Garden sheds have been getting the most attention lately. We're captivated by the idea of a private room out in the garden, a place apart," she wrote.

"I've seen simple sheds just large enough to lay down a yoga mat, or ones as elaborately appointed with fireplaces, bookshelves and carpets as a Victorian cottage."

Ms Easton refers to a particular shed in Seattle, a ten by 12 feet structure in a back garden built with multiple windows and wood-trimmed French doors.

Used as an office, the floor is concrete, and the metal roof features a rain chain to harvest water for irrigating the garden.

Meanwhile a garden shed in the West Midlands has been transformed into the new headquarters for a youth club.

Find out more information about garden sheds