We all have dreams. More or less ambitious, more or less realistic: a cabin by the Arcachon basin, a chalet in Switzerland, a villa in the Seychelles, or, more simply, a garden shed.

And I am convinced that I share this dream with all gardeners who do not yet have one.

Where the problem lies is that whether made of cedar, Douglas fir, or custom-built, even the simplest garden shed can quickly become expensive. This explains why we often have to turn to wood or metal shelters that are not too costly, but are unsightly or terribly ordinary, which, as you will agree, is enough to spoil a garden.

The solution? Personalise, decorate, and integrate! Here are 6 simple and easy-to-implement ideas that will allow you to transform a "cheap" garden shed into a truly charming cabin.

1) Facades: get out the paint and brushes

Wood is a noble and durable material that ages beautifully over time… when it is of good quality. This is rarely the case with the most common shelters. It is often recommended to stain garden chalets, which generally makes them shiny and gives them a Swiss look, certainly, but not necessarily in keeping with the region or the overall ambiance of the garden. Instead of this solution, opt for a good exterior wood paint: colour immediately adds style!

Choosing a colour is very personal. However, I recommend avoiding shades that quickly become tiresome, such as candy pink, purple, and orange (the latter guarantees a construction site cabin effect!).

Green can be interesting, but don’t expect it to serve a "camouflage" function. Unless you truly fall into military patterns (and even then), it doesn’t work!

Neutral shades, from off-white to mouse grey, are elegant and suit classic gardens well.

A beautiful example of successful "customisation" - Blog: La source d'Angele

Black, rarely used, is very versatile: it evokes the cabins once painted with waste oil (never do this!) and Scandinavian houses. It fits perfectly in contemporary spaces, just like bright red, which is very dynamic and can also remind one of the Basque Country when mixed with white.

Very girly, pale pink, as well as all soft and pastel colours, are perfect in romantic gardens with an English charm… But be reasonable, otherwise, beware of the dollhouse effect 😉

Blue, red, black, or pink... Everything is possible to personalise a tool shed

Small painting tip: on pine, there can sometimes be a rise of resin that forms stains: remember to apply a special undercoat for exotic and resinous woods before painting.

2) Shelter roof: improve the existing

The cheapest garden shelters often come with simple bitumen sheets as roof protection. I’ll tell you: it’s ugly and fragile. Don’t hesitate to spend a few extra euros on bitumen shingles. They provide a more durable protection and, by mimicking tiles or slates, offer a more aesthetic appearance.

While you’re at it, add gutters to collect rainwater; it’s essential!

The more handy among you can also embark on creating a green roof. Although this is not something to improvise (you must ensure that your shelter's structure is strong enough to support the weight of the waterlogged substrate as well as a possible layer of snow), it is much easier than it seems and immediately gives a little hobbit house vibe!

Green roofs - Photos: Pinterest

3) Add some decorative elements

To perfect the personalisation of your shelter, don’t hesitate to add a little decorative touch. Once again, anything is possible: a planter at the window; some zinc pots, an outdoor bouquet, a pretty wicker wreath hung at the entrance, or even your favourite number painted with a stencil... If your shelter doesn’t have a window, you can easily create a faux one!

Clever and recycled storage, a potting table... organise and personalise the interior of your garden shed - Photos: Pinterest

4) Give it a terrace and even a mini pergola

The immediate environment of your shelter plays a significant role in its integration. Rather than planting it in the middle of the lawn, add a small terrace. Made of wood or paved, it will look great, especially if you accompany it with large pots and place a chair or a bench there. Then complete with large beds of perennials... Voilà, it’s no longer just a garden shed, but a lovely refuge, almost a second home!

For those who do early sowing, it may be interesting to attach one or several frames on the south side to protect your cuttings and young plants from the cold.

Finally, to give personality to your cabin, nothing is better than a mini pergola or an arch attached to the facade. It will "break" the ordinary look of the cabin and can host a clematis, a honeysuckle, or even a climbing rose with a delightful fragrance.

A mini-terrace, a climbing rose, or a generous bed of perennials: accompany your garden shed! Photos: Pinterest

5) Don’t neglect the interior layout of your cabin

The garden cabin can serve multiple functions: storing tools, pots, etc., but also, when spacious enough, serving as a sowing and potting workshop. As with all small spaces, it is crucial to plan suitable storage and optimise every inch to work comfortably. Here are some ideas that I hope will inspire you.

Clever and recycled storage, a potting table... organise and personalise the interior of your garden shed - Photos: Pinterest

6) A truly hideous garden shed? Drown it in vegetation

Sometimes, we must admit, none of this is possible or sufficient. This is often the case with metal or resin shelters that still serve their purpose. In this case, opt for the complete camouflage option by planting around a hornbeam, a hedge of bamboo, or giant miscanthus. Another option is to double it with trellises that will be covered with vigorous climbing plants. This last solution will also help regulate the temperature, which is often high in summer in this type of shelter!

And you, how have you integrated your "garden chalet"? Any tips or ideas to share? Leave us a comment!

PS: All these ideas have been gathered from Pinterest, where you can find them, along with many others, on our boards!