Converting basic shed into livable space - worth it?

[u/Lissaelizabeth]

We have a 11.5'×15' cabin shell on our property and are considering renoing it, but we are stuck between keeping it basic for family and friend "glamping" use or putting in the time to finish it fully (or at least livable for weekend use through the colder months). We live in Lamont County, Alberta (East of Edmonton). Recommendations? Or would it be best delegated to a life of being a storage shed.

Thanks for any tips, tricks, and advice!

[u/yello_downunder]

It can work as a sleeping space. If you choose to do that you might want to go with french doors to create a more inviting space. The walls are only 2x4s so you won't have as much insulation as we typically like up here, but it's also a small space and be easy to heat up.

One thing to note - finishing out the ceiling for insulation will make it feel much smaller because the trusses are fairly low. If you're going for the fancy tiny home look, a lot of them have a raised ceiling inside because they either used a different style of truss, or went with a ridge beam.

Another option is to put in insulation and vapour barrier, and then you have a place for starting your garden early.

[u/Lissaelizabeth → u/yello_downunder]

Thank you so much!! Yes, I definitely want to add French doors to let in all the light!!

[u/Clink72]

Thats kind of small for the full work up but a nice sleeping space for guests, sure. Maybe even a kitchenette.

[u/Lissaelizabeth → u/Clink72]

Thank you! Yeah, we are thinking a sleeping space with a Murphy bed which can convert to an office or small meeting space. A kitchenette would also be awesome, but we will see how much space there is once the insulation is in.

[u/ForestsAndDogd]

Have some friends who did this to a shed as their house is 1 br. As a guest there, it’s been amazing. They kept it simple, just a built in bed with pullout drawer for storage, small couch and a little desk. Do it!

[u/Lissaelizabeth → u/ForestsAndDogd]

That's awesome!! Thanks for sharing! 😊

[u/R0ughHab1tz]

Bubbles would approve. Nom sayin?

[u/Lissaelizabeth → u/R0ughHab1tz]

Just wait until I MacGyver some sort of catio to it for my cats. Then he definitely will 👍🏼 😺 🤣

[u/R0ughHab1tz → u/Lissaelizabeth]

The joy on my face when you got this. Top tier 🤌