When you’re planning a new shed, one of the first questions is: how big should it be?
The right dimensions depend on what you’re storing, how you’ll use the space, and of course, what council will allow.
At CV Sheds, we’ve been building custom sheds across Central Victoria for decades, from garages and workshops through to rural or farm machinery and hay sheds.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most important sizing considerations to help you plan your ideal shed size.
Step 1: Deciding the Right Shed Size for You
What is the purpose of your shed? Whether planning a shed for a specific purpose or perhaps even a future purpose, consider asking the following questions…
- What’s going inside my shed? Car, ute, 4WD, caravan, campervan, boat, bus, farm machinery, hay, tractors, animals, tools, work benches etc. Consider what is going in your shed, how it will be used and how much space it will need.
- How tall does my shed need to be? Think of your tallest item you will store, this will help you decide on the opening clearance you require which will subsequently help determine the overall height required for your shed. The size of your door opening height is vital, as certain items will need extra clearance above what is considered to be standard door opening heights. Consider also future proofing your shed, you may have a smaller vehicle, tractor, caravan or boat today, but want to upgrade to a larger one in the future.
Finalising your design with the right considerations that meet your needs is very important at the beginning of the design process, as alterations after the building or planning approval process can be time consuming and incur additional costs.
- How will I move around in the shed? Factor in space for walkways, benches, racking, or loading vehicles. Vehicles have grown over time, so consider the size of your vehicle/s now and future and the space you will have in the shed when all your vehicles are inside. You want to feel comfortable walking in and around your shed space, not cramped or tripping over things. Allow at least 1m or more clear space around vehicles or heavy equipment for easy and safe access.
- What does my site allow? Planning permits may dictate what shed size you can go up to and how far off boundaries and water course etc. your shed must be. It is important for you to consider your specific council’s planning regulations. Things that influence the final footprint include setbacks, boundaries, slope, and easements, zoning of land, council overlays etc.
- What is my shed budget? The size of your shed may be limited by your budget. Typically the larger the shed the greater the cost, but this may be a better option if it allows you to avoid needing multiple sheds. We can help you get the best out of your budget to suit your requirements.
After considering these basics, it becomes much easier to choose a shed size that’s both practical today and functional for the future.
Step 2: Bring your idea to life
Now it’s time to put it to the test. With CV Sheds’ 3D Shed Designer, you can experiment with different heights, footprints, and layouts in just a few clicks. This helps you visualise your ideal shed and shed size and make sure it works for your space.
Step 3: Speak To One Of Our Project Consultants
Our knowledgeable and friendly project consultants will listen to your needs and will:
- Consult with you about your requirements, dimensions and site
- Help you finalise a design and provide a detailed quote
- Ensure that your shed is built with 100% Australian RHS steel and genuine Australian steel cladding (COLORBOND®, ZINCALUME® or galvanised steel)
- Take care of the engineering and council permits
Whether you’re planning a garage, workshop, or large farm shed, we are equipped to support your needs and help you bring your vision to life.
Some Practical Tips for Sizing Your Shed
- Site location and access points: Consider site location and orientation in terms of easy access and turning circle for vehicles coming in and out of the shed. Ensure the location of access doors (e.g. roller doors or sliding doors) or open undercover areas are practical and functional.
- Opening width: Consider the ease of backing a caravan or trailer into your shed. Ensure you have enough opening width for practicality now and in the future (should you upgrade to a wider vehicle).
- Door clearance: A 4WD with racks? Go for at least 2.4 m clearance (please note some larger sized 4WD with racks may exceed 2.4m in height). Caravans typically require up to 3.1m in opening height clearance, however there are many off-road caravans that require 3.2m or more in height. Boats, campervans and motorhomes can require much larger heights, so it is best to consider your requirement now and for the future. Do your homework and allow extra clearance where you can.
- Width and length of shed: Consider the shed access points as well as the length of your vehicles and allow for walking space around the front, back or sides.
- Future-proof now: It’s far cheaper to add extra height or bay space at the start than to retrofit later.
- Planning the space: Allow at least 1m clear space around vehicles or heavy equipment for safe and easy access.
Deciding the right shed size isn’t just about fitting your gear inside; it’s about planning for the way you’ll use the space today and years down the track. By understanding and thinking ahead about clearance, space and function, you’ll end up with a shed that’s practical, functional and built to last.
At CV Sheds, we make the process simple. From helping you test your ideas in our 3D Shed Designer to handling engineering and permits, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Speak to our team for a free, no-pressure consult.