'Couldn't Be Happier': Homeowner Shares Inspiring Backyard Shed Transformation

It's some of the most ordinary places that can hide the most potential. One homeowner took what used to be a boring tool shed and turned it into a magical and charming greenhouse instead. The homeowner shared their inspiring backyard shed transformation on Reddit, saying they "couldn't be happier" with how it turned out. If you've ever dreamed of building a greenhouse in your garden but aren't sure where to begin, or if you've got an old shed at the back of your yard gathering cobwebs and dust, this dramatic transformation might inspire you.

A greenhouse is a little bubble of stability for gardeners. It provides shelter from the elements, a place to safely grow seedlings, and a dedicated spot for overwintering potted plants when temperatures drop. Beyond the practical benefits, there's also something magical about stepping into a sun-warmed space filled with greenery when the rest of the garden is asleep and cold. But store-bought options, like Harbor Freight's greenhouse, aren't always worth buying. On the other hand, DIY greenhouses can transform your backyard, but it's sometimes hard to know how to go about building one. One Redditor had the clever idea of using something they already had on hand: an old tool shed.

This transformation isn't a simple afternoon DIY but rather a renovation project that requires brand-new, clear roofing, doors, and windows to be installed. If you've got an old and rusty shed in the yard that's awaiting a refresh, use this as inspiration for ways to let the light and warmth in. The best part is that such a greenhouse can be used in many ways (including as a shed, of course). For example, a workbench can turn it into a cozy and bright potting and DIY station to use even when it rains.

To transform a humble backyard shed into a greenhouse, the homeowner kept the foundations but replaced the roof with a transparent material that lets the sun shine through. If you're trying to replicate it, consider using something transparent and durable, like polycarbonate sheets. In addition, they added large windows to all sides of the shed, as well as a completely transparent entrance door. Thanks to these clever changes, the shed turned from dark and gloomy to bright and warm. Light comes through the windows and the roof, which then turns into heat. This greenhouse effect also helps retain that heat and maintain a more stable temperature, which is great for plants and seedlings.

This inspiring shed transformation was done in Zone 6b, where temperatures dip into the negatives during the winter. While a greenhouse can help protect plants from the elements, it cannot perform miracles in freezing temperatures. To help, this greenhouse-shed hybrid used some additional heating. "In the winter, I use a small space heater that turns on when temps dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit," the Redditor wrote. If you plan to do the same, avoid space heaters that produce carbon monoxide, like gas heaters, which can be a safety hazard in non-ventilated spaces.

Without a heater, it's best to seal crevices and cracks to prevent drafts and use unexpected items to protect your plants from cold snaps, like bubble wrap. In addition, it's key to choose plants that can survive in cooler temperatures. "I chose plants that could take some dry heat in the winter and a cold snap," the homeowner wrote on Reddit. Hopefully, this is a DIY that can inspire some fun shed makeovers for garden lovers.