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7 Instant Backyard Getaways
Could one of these prefab studios be the extra ‘me’ space you need?
If the idea of a prefab appeals to you, but you’re nervous about trying it in a main residence, dip your toe into the prefab pool with these stylish modular structures. Some of these buildings are great options for a backyard guesthouse, home office or studio, others are better suited for a garden shed, and a couple can be used for small homes. All are great ways to play with this genius construction style.
Check with your local planning department about building codes and any required permits, choose your style and custom touches, then enjoy your new living, working or escape space.
More: A Tiny, Happy, Eco-Friendly Home
Check with your local planning department about building codes and any required permits, choose your style and custom touches, then enjoy your new living, working or escape space.
More: A Tiny, Happy, Eco-Friendly Home
The Modern/Cube studio from Decorated Shed doesn’t look much different than a traditionally built studio. Developments in architecture — such as structural insulating panels, which can be precut and locked together — make the structure strong and the building process easy.
This unit is a great example of the modern style and flexibility of a prefab building. The Dual Office Studio is a great solution for someone working from home, with enough room for a workspace and a small living area.
Since this is a panelized prefab, each factory-made part will be assembled to make the structure onsite. Another style of prefab buildings is precut, which means they are almost fully constructed in a factory before being shipped out.
Since this is a panelized prefab, each factory-made part will be assembled to make the structure onsite. Another style of prefab buildings is precut, which means they are almost fully constructed in a factory before being shipped out.
Prefab buildings can cost less overall than a stick-built structure, since the materials are bought in bulk. But when you’re working with a good vendor, the manufacturing process will still ensure a high level of quality control. The Zip Cabin is made of select-grade solid timber treated to resist decay and insects. Galvanized steel brackets and bolts act as connecting tools, and the home sits upon composite foundation pads with a lifetime guarantee. I’d be perfectly content living in this 12-by-16-foot space (which, conveniently, is small enough to be permit-exempt in many areas).
If a garden shed is really more what you’re looking for, the prefab MetroShed is an easy-to-assemble alternative that can be quickly delivered to your house. Made of termite-resistant cedar, the shed is customizable, but all the options have insulated wall panels, aluminum-framed sliding glass doors, ventilation shutters with bug screens, corrosion-resistant hardware and a UV-protected roof.
This shed from Modern Cabana comes in multiple sizes and finishes. This 10-by-12-foot one is the smallest, and would work wonderfully as a modern garden shed or backyard office.
You can go bigger, too. The Locomo series from Marmol Radziner Prefab is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to a standard custom-built home. You can purchase several customizable options in sizes from 800 to 2,200 square feet.
The chic Loft Cube, while meant to be a temporary living structure, still needs the help of a contractor to be put together. Most prefab building suppliers can help you with site preparation and installation services. You can also enlist a professional contractor with experience in prefab buildings. While there’s a little more effort involved than plunking a trailer down in your backyard, the sleek and stylish design can’t be beat.
Tell us: What would you do with your own backyard studio?
More
14 Picture-Perfect Playhouses
A Tiny, Happy, Eco-Friendly Home
Tell us: What would you do with your own backyard studio?
More
14 Picture-Perfect Playhouses
A Tiny, Happy, Eco-Friendly Home
