Built for Your Life: Mansheds and Hobby Shops to Work, Store, and Entertain

Building the Perfect Retreat: Size, Design, and Custom Touches

Your personal space should be more than just a garage. Whether it’s a workshop, a hobby space, or a place to entertain and relax, getting the details right is key. From the ideal size to design elements, here’s what you need to know to create the perfect post-frame structure for your needs.

Finding the Right Size for Your Build

Choosing the right size is crucial when planning your retreat or workspace. To help put things into perspective, here are some typical garage dimensions:

• 24ft x 24ft x 10ft: This is a standard size for a two-car garage, offering room for two vehicles and some additional storage or workspace.
• 30ft x 40ft x 10ft: A common size for a three-car garage, providing extra space for a third vehicle or larger work areas.

For hobby shops, we often see builds in these sizes:

• 30ft x 40ft x 10ft: A versatile size for hobbyists who want space for a two-car garage with room for projects or storage. It offers ample space for smaller workshops or mixed-use areas.
• 40ft x 60ft x 12ft: Perfect for larger projects or multiple uses, this size allows for a combination of garage space, a workshop, and even a place to entertain or relax.
• 30ft x 60ft x 12ft: A great middle-ground size, offering the flexibility to use the space for vehicles, a workshop, and even an entertainment area with room to spare.

Adding a porch enhances the usability and appearance of your build. A porch that’s 1/3 to 1/2 the length of the structure is visually ideal, providing balance without overwhelming the building.

Perfect for Entertaining and Storage Year-Round

One of the biggest advantages of having a separate hobby shop, manshed, or retreat is the freedom it provides when entertaining. Customers love the ability to host gatherings in a space that’s separate from their home. Whether it's a rowdy family reunion, noisy kids, or even nosey relatives, having a dedicated space for entertaining means you can keep your home peaceful while the fun happens nearby.

Plus, you have the luxury of setting up in advance—days or even weeks before the event. No need to disrupt your daily life or deal with clutter in your living space. You can also walk away from the mess after the party, leaving clean-up for the next day while keeping your home and sanity intact.

Other benefits include:

• Storage for Decorations and Supplies: Use the space to store seasonal decorations, hosting supplies, and serving pieces. With dedicated shelves and organized storage, your retreat can help you stay clutter-free and keep everything accessible year-round.
• Entertaining Space: Your post-frame retreat is more than just a workspace—it can double as an entertainment hub. Whether it’s hosting guests for a casual hangout or using the space for gatherings, a well-designed hobby shop gives you plenty of room to create the perfect atmosphere for any event.

Design Elements That Make It Feel Like Home

The right design elements can turn a simple structure into a retreat that feels like an extension of your home. These features not only improve the aesthetics but also increase comfort and functionality.

Boxed Eaves (Overhangs)

Adding boxed eaves, or overhangs, gives your build a home-like appearance. These overhangs provide extra protection from the elements while adding a polished look. They help the structure blend seamlessly into your property, making it feel less like a utility building and more like a cozy part of your space.

Wainscoting for Style

To enhance the look of your build, consider adding wainscoting along the exterior. Popular options include classic steel wainscoting or the more sophisticated look of stone veneer. These choices not only add a layer of visual interest but also elevate the structure’s overall appearance.

Windows for Natural Light

Including a couple of windows will bring natural light into your structure, creating a bright and comfortable environment. Properly placed windows also help the space feel more open and inviting, whether you’re working or relaxing.

Porch Options for a Polished Look

The porch is a great feature to expand your space for entertaining or relaxing. To make it stand out, you can choose cedar posts for a natural, rustic look, or opt for boxed-in posts to give your porch a more finished and polished appearance.

The Finishing Touch: A Cupola

To cap it all off, consider adding a cupola. This feature not only offers extra ventilation but also adds a distinctive finishing touch, giving your structure charm and character.

Start Designing Your Custom Space

With the right size, design elements, and custom touches, your retreat can be the perfect place for working, relaxing, entertaining, or even storing your decorations and supplies. Whether you’re preparing for an event or creating a space to unwind, we’re here to help you bring your vision to life.

Ready to start building? Visit our 3D Builder to design your custom space and explore the possibilities: https://qsi.custom3dbuilder.com/

Or give us a call at 800-374-6988 to start planning today.