How to build the perfect she-shed.

Let’s get one thing straight – yes motherhood is a blessing but the mental load and overstimulation many moms suffer from is also real, and needs a bit of validation, or even just acknowledgement.

Storytime:

The introvert who became a mom. (A tale as old as time)

“I used to be cool and do cool things, no I am two little people’s snack servant.”

Me, every day.

I used to have long hours each day where no one spoke to me and I could sit, read, work and listen to my sweary music and gruesome true crime podcasts in peace.

Then I got to be a mom and suddenly quiet didn’t exist anymore.

My kids are by no means bad, or troublesome, in fact they’re pretty easy-going. But the biggest mistake I made was teaching them to talk and, while they were still safely and SILENTLY snuggled in my belly, hoping for curious and independent children.

Each morning, my son literally opens his mouth to start talking before his eyes are even open. He talks, he sings, he whistles, he has even started rapping. He asks questions, he tells stories, and he asks questions. Oh, and he asks questions. My daughter babbles loudly and furiously in that half word, half random noise, secret baby language that doesn’t communicate anything but still requires mom to stand still, look baby in the eyes and pretend that it makes sense. People call me, other moms shout hello from across the school parking lot, the cashier chit-chats and the barista tells me her life story. While I love engaging with humans and care greatly for the moms, cashiers and baristas of this world, I’m telling you – I. Need. Space.

This is why the brilliant idea of a She-shed caught my attention.

A space, for mom, (or any “she” who needs it), a She-shed is a hideout in the best possible way.

It can be a home office, a studio, a personal library, a nap retreat or simply a kid free space to regroup, reground and recalibrate before you get up and go cook dinner. (Again.)

The whole point of a she shed is that you make the rules.

Our non-negotiables for the perfect she-shed include:

1. WiFi, electricity and charging spaces for all your devices.

While you can use your shed to disappear from the world, having access to reliable internet can make it that little bit better. It’s better to voluntarily go offline when you are hiding in your shed, than it is to be unable to connect.

2. A lock.

Yup. It’s your space. Be a little bit selfish and lock it when you’re not using it. This will keep it neat, clean and ready for your next escape session.

3. Snacks

All those expensive high sugar mom snacks that the kids keep on finding and devouring? Move them to your shed! Buy your own biltong and blueberries and enjoy every bite.

4. A spot to relax.

If you are a lounger, get a chaise lounge or a bean bag, if you are more of a pull your feet up under you person, get a deep wingback or foot stool, but be sure to invest in  the perfect relaxing spot for you. Don’t forget the plush blankets and throws in the winter.

5. Some form of climate control

Whether you have windows that can open, or a fan, or even an aircon or little log fire, don’t forget that many sheds or outbuildings don’t necessarily have the same insulation main houses have. Don’t be left out in the cold (or heat) and sort out the temperature controls of your space to ensure maximum comfort.

6. Multitasking mom deserves a multitasking space.

As much as you might want to keep your shed for yourself that’s not always sensible. If you need to, you can always convert your space into a detached guest cottage. (Even just temporarily.)

This can give you and your guests a bit of space and privacy and allow the flow of the household to remain unhindered if you have friends or family staying more than a couple of nights. We love the fact that a guest cottage and a she-shed can be interchangeable. For a full discussion on multifunctional spaces, read our WF about it here

(Similarly, moving your gym equipment out of the garage or living room might inspire you to have a dedicate exercise zone and really start smashing those HIIT sessions.)

As with any home improvement project, the budget is very scalable.

Better Homes & Gardens give you tricks for a multifunctional shed-space.

HGTV have a gallery of beautiful she-shed ideas

Fix Forward shows you how to create the perfect personal space.

Here’s another option, showing you how to convert your garden office space into a guesthouse. (Quickly And Cheaply!)

Also read our article on Self Care Improvement