6 Stylish Design Options for Backyard Buildings

If you’ve got a backyard, there’s always a reason to do something new and beautiful to it, right? One upgrade that always hits the mark is a backyard building. These offer everything a homeowner could ask for: extra storage, an irresistible charm, and endless possibilities for leisure. Whether it’s a cozy lounging spot or a fun games room for the kids, a backyard building can truly transform your space.

Thinking about adding one to your home but not sure which style to choose? We're here to help! Check out our favorite chic and creative designs for yard structures; you’ll be blown away by what’s possible.

Create a Small Shed

Our first backyard building idea to consider is a small shed. This is a fantastic idea for anyone who wants to set up their own office or even get a little Airbnb side hustle going. With a standard 10×12 size, you’ll have plenty of room to customize the design to suit your specific needs.

For a shed like this, a gravel pad provides the most reliable support, so you never have to stress about any rot or erosion underneath it. You’ll have three main options for siding: steel, vinyl, or wood. Each material has its own perks, so take some time to choose the one that suits your backyard.

Turn a Cozy Cabin Into a Restful Retreat

Nothing quite matches the appeal of a cozy cabin. There’s something magical about its rustic wooden exterior nestled amidst dense trees; it's like a scene straight out of a storybook. The kind of place that wraps you in warmth and comfort the moment you step inside.

There's no end to what you can create inside. Transform it into your personal hideaway with a restful retreat bedroom design, making it your sanctuary where tranquility reigns. Outside, keep things quaint and inviting with rustic touches; inside, don’t be afraid to get creative. Bright pops of color and thoughtful symmetry will bring harmony to the space.

Don't forget to prioritize soft, elegant bedding; a plush mattress and layered textiles will make every night sleep in here feel like a dream.

Add a Bathing Area With a Pool House

Complete your backyard oasis with a stylish pool house to complement your swimming area. These standalone units look fantastic beside your pool, but they're usually used for changing clothes. However, with a little creativity, you can make yours into a luxurious bathing area that resembles a cabana on a tropical island somewhere in the Caribbean.

Pool houses come in a variety of sizes, typically ranging from 100 to 500 square feet. Just keep in mind that the larger you go, the higher the price tag. Currently, pool house costs range from $24,000 to $180,000. If you're after something more budget-friendly, a cabana-style or storage-shed pool house is the design you'll want to look at. However, if you'd prefer a multifunctional space, like a guesthouse, or a fully customized design tailored to your garden, expect the price to rise accordingly.

Transform a Front Porch Into a Relaxation Corner

Don't let your front porch go to waste; turn it into your very own relaxation corner so your family can come together and chill out. Tuck away those shoes and set up a comfy couch where you can unwind after a long day. Just picture you lounging there with a good book, soaking in the fresh air on a warm summer's day.

A perfect relaxation corner needs a cozy sofa to sink into, maybe a small table, or even a hanging swing chair for that extra detail. If you want a bit more privacy, consider adding a fence or a wall around it. This way, you can hide any clutter you’d rather keep out of sight while still enjoying a peaceful corner right at your doorstep.

Put Your Carport to Good Use in More Ways

A carport doesn't have to be used just to store vehicles; you're free to put it to good use in more ways than that. Of course, that beautiful new Cadillac you just bought needs protection, but there's bound to be more space in there that can serve a practical purpose.

Map out how much area your carport really needs. Then, with whatever you have leftover, try to make it work in your favor by turning it into a designated zone for something else. Perhaps that gym idea you wanted to try or the laundry room your partner has been harping on about for years.

Craft Your Own Tree-Top Escape

The thought that treehouses are just for little kids to play in is ages-old. Nowadays, adults are embracing their inner child by building their own tree-top escapes to relax whenever they have some free time on their hands.

First things first, choose a strong, sturdy tree that’s built to withstand high winds; a wobbly tree will only spell disaster for your treehouse. Size matters, too; make sure the tree provides enough space to make the treehouse functional. You don’t want something so small that it’s barely usable, and you can't walk around inside. As for materials, pressure-treated lumber is your best bet. It’s durable and resistant to rot, so you won't have to worry about spending more money repairing it in the future.

Another thing to keep in mind is the height. Sure, it needs to be raised to give that true treehouse feel. But don’t go too high, or you run the risk of having safety issues, both during construction and once it's up. Plus, if it’s too high, it could end up being a pain for anyone who needs to access it.

Reimagine Your Backyard With These Creative Building Design Options

Explore the six creative building design options we’ve outlined here; you’re sure to find the right one that will make your space look better than ever. From hidden treehouses to maximizing your carport for more functionality at a lower cost, all the ideas you need are right here.