I see the side of a fence or shed as a blank canvas with the potential to create something visually pleasing. That may sound a little strange, but the idea is worth considering. Creating a shed vignette can add the perfect touch to your yard.
I moved into my home three years ago and this shed was a prominent fixture in my backyard. It was this huge thing just sitting there. The first time I saw it I knew it was waiting for “some personality”. What that personality was, I had no idea, but I knew it was going to become something unique.
I had a black iron bench that I placed in the middle of the shed wall, then added an iron gate that I removed from my fence. (I had replaced the gate with a wooden one.)
I thought these two pieces would make a nice focal point for the centre of the shed. In my mind’s eye, I saw clematis and other climbing plants all over the bench and travelling up the gate.
It was still a bit of a blank canvas and it was calling to me as I gathered pieces I found in my shed, the garage and my basement. To make it easier for me to decide what to hang on the side of the shed, I placed everything in one place to see what pieces I had.
Items that you could use to hang include:
- Small signs
- Birdfeeders
- Flower pots
- Vintage tools
- Old boxes
Starting on either side of the shed, I began to hang various items and before I knew it the entire wall was filled. Very quickly, the space came together and I was happy with what I was seeing.
I love my backyard, my gardens and my conversation areas. Equally, I am really enjoying the side of my shed.
If you have a shed that needs a little life, I hope I have inspired you to look at yours in a different and creative light.
Here’s a short video on the finished project:
Follow up: Even designers can change their minds! After including all the pieces on the side of my shed, I was on my deck one evening and realized the shed needed a new coat of paint in a new colour. I wanted the shed to pop and selected this beautiful deep shade of iron grey. I think it was just the touch that was needed to finish my shed!
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- Before
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- After
