Shed Retreat
Small can be exquisitely beautiful, as this writer's cottage at the end of a suburban garden shows.
The homeowner is a children's fairytale writer who wanted a writing retreat at the bottom of his garden which helps him to focus on work. The architects at Surman Weston & Deane responded by designing a simple and evocative cabin full of clever design features.
The cedar and shingle-clad cabin, not much bigger than an ordinary garden shed, takes the shape of a stereotypical house but with one roof slanting at a steeper angle than the other. The front wall of the cabin is made of cedar slats, behind which is a sheltering porch and large glass sliding doors, which has the effect of lighting up the cabin like a lantern at night.
The cabin is furnished sparsely but comfortably. A wood burning stove forms the focal point of the end wall, its chimney flue zig-zagging up the bookshelf-lined wall. A large skylight over the simple writing desk admits plenty of natural light, a comfortable armchair the only other item of furniture in this serene space.
We love the simplicity and elegance of this cabin, showing how good design can be functional and evocative at the same time. If only all garden sheds could be like this.
Links
http://www.surmanweston.com/writers-shed
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Product Inspiration
Furnishing a room simply doesn't mean you have to compromise in style. The Chubby Chic armchair by Diesel Living would look great in this cabin. The Split Step by Frederik Roije is a sleek and elegant way to reach those tall shelves. What about a romantic rocking chair such as the Raphia from Casamania for the porch?
Lighting is best kept simple and functional. The Mr Ed bookend light from Functionals would be perfect for the bookshelves, whilst the Asterisco light from LZF would make a functional and stylish addition to to the writing desk.
The whimsical Funny Farm wooden animal sculptures from LZF would look great in the cabin. Another fun idea would be to put the Dish of Desire bird feeding table or the Holy Homes bird house, both from Frederik Roije, on the trees outside.