Imagine only having to step out of your back door to get to your serene office bathed in natural light. Or maybe you’d prefer to use your backyard studio as a cozy guesthouse or a vibrant art studio.
Building a backyard studio can transform your home lawn from an idle space into a functional, dynamic, and useful area. But first, you’ll need to decide on the type of backyard studio you want.
Keep reading as we discuss various types of backyard studios, including their features, unique benefits, and more.
Types of Backyard Studios You Should Know
Backyard studios are all about creating unique environments that cater to our diverse lifestyles and aspirations. Here are some types of backyard studios you may consider when designing your own:
1. Prefab backyard studios
Prefabricated studios are built off-site and then delivered and either installed or assembled on your property. These studios are designed to be quick and easy to install, offering a hassle-free solution for creating additional space. In addition, they are relatively straightforward to transport and will typically cause minimal disruption to your property.
Also, prefab backyard studios reduce the potential for on-site errors and delays, with completion times typically within a few days.
| Pros | Cons |
| Quick construction | Limited customization |
| Improved scalability | |
| A large variety of designs |
2. Custom-built backyard studios
In this case, you’ll design and construct your backyard studio according to your specific needs and preferences. Custom-built backyard studios typically afford you more personalization in terms of size, layout, materials, and features.
Whether you’re looking for a creative art studio, a serene yoga retreat, or a high-tech home office, custom-built studios provide the flexibility to incorporate your specialized requirements and aesthetic preferences. Either way, you’ll typically end up with a one-of-a-kind space.
| Pros | Cons |
| Full customization | It may be more costly |
| Personalized design | Longer construction time |
| Flexible functionality |
3. Converted garages/sheds
As the name implies, converted garages or sheds are existing structures that are repurposed into functional backyard studios. In this case, you’ll need to renovate and upgrade a garden shed (or similar outdoor building) to create a backyard studio.
If it is not too large, converting an already-built detached shed can be a cost-effective way to add extra room without the need for new construction. However, while it is a very practical option for creating a backyard studio, the renovation and customization process may be limited by the existing structure.
| Pros | Cons |
| Budget-friendly | Requires extensive insulation and adaptation |
| Eco-friendly | Size is limited by the dimensions of the shipping container |
| Quick construction |
4. Shipping container studios
Another type of backyard studio that is growing in popularity is the shipping container studio. These innovative spaces are made from repurposed shipping containers, which provide a solid and durable foundation for constructing unique and versatile backyard studios.
With shipping container studios, you’ll typically have to modify the container to include windows, doors, insulation, and interior finishes. This type of backyard studio is popular for its aesthetic and eco-friendly appeal, as it recycles existing materials.
| Pros | Cons |
| Unique aesthetics | Requires extensive insulation and adaptation |
| Durability | Size is limited by the dimensions of the shipping container |
| Flexibility |
5. Tiny house studios
Tiny house studios are small, fully functional homes that can double as backyard studios. Generally, they feature a compact and complete living space, including a living area, sleeping loft, kitchenette, and bathroom, within a minimal footprint. In Ontario, if the footprint is less than 100 square feet (10×10 structure), you don’t even need a permit to construct and/or install!
Since tiny houses are typically designed to maximize efficiency and functionality, some people also use them as backyard studios.
| Pros | Cons |
| Budget-friendly | Limited space |
| Versatile use | Customization may get expensive |
| Space-efficient design |
Popular Use Cases of Backyard Studios
Backyard studios offer a range of uses, providing flexibility and added value to any property. Here are some popular use cases for these spaces:
- Home offices: With many professionals working remotely, your backyard studio can function as a dedicated home office to improve productivity and work-life balance.
- Art studios: For creatives, a backyard studio can be an ideal space to create and display their work.
- Guest houses: Do you frequently have family or friends sleeping over? A backyard studio can offer comfortable accommodations for guests without compromising privacy.
- Wellness retreats: Many people choose to use their backyard studio as a personal space dedicated to wellness activities such as yoga or meditation.
- Music studios: Don’t have a dedicated room in your house for your music? No problem. You create a soundproofed space to practice, record, and produce music in your backyard studio.
- Study rooms: A backyard studio can also offer you a quiet and dedicated space for studying.
- Fitness studios: You can also use your backyard studio as a fitness studio or personal gym to get in your workouts.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking a serene home office, a creative art studio, or a comfortable guest house, backyard studios provide a wide range of exciting options to meet your needs while improving your property’s value.
Thankfully, you have several options, and each one comes with its unique perks—from the quick installation to the bespoke elegance of custom builds and budget-friendliness of converted sheds.
Ready to transform your backyard into a versatile and functional space? Contact Resimate today for comprehensive consulting on additional dwelling units and expert construction services.
