• Just because it's a storage area doesn't mean it has to look like your average shed.winter shed image by Paul Coskery from Fotolia.com
  
  The design of your shed should be based on its intended purpose. Think not about what you plan to do with your shed, but about what you expect you'll eventually do. If you know that your plans have a habit of changing to conform to unforeseen needs, don't build a shed according to a tool shed design, but rather build one that can be used for a variety of purposes.
  
  

Lean-to Shed

• The lean-to shed is the simplest shed to make, since the back wall is part of your house. To get the most use out of it, build it with two doors that open outward. Although it will likely be used primarily for storing tools and equipment, you might want to consider adding an outdoor work bench that attaches to the side. You could even put the workbench on a hinge so that it folds up when not in use.
  
  

Hobby Shed

• If you plan on using your shed to indulge in your hobbies or special projects, create what might also be termed a small A-frame addition. Put up a Dutch door and sliding windows to create a homey atmosphere. If you're going to be doing a lot of work, build the roof a bit higher than you would with a regular shed, to give more room for heat to rise. Board-and-batten siding completes the look of this shed that offers much more than just extra storage space.
  
  

Rustic Shed

• Those wanting a rustic look in their shed can go all out with the one offered by the author of "Sheds and Gazebos." The rustic feel begins with a foundation covered by rocks. A porch is supported by columns made from tree trunks. The shed is built with random-width board-and-batten pine and hemlock framing. A bay window cantilevers out of the side and is supported with diagonal braces.
  
  

Gambrel Shed

• A gambrel shed with a high ceiling can store riding lawn mowers just as easily as it can store a vintage motorcycle. Use planks that rest across ceiling joists to provide interior space. When using board-and-batten siding, you eliminate the need for stud framing, which means you can put up this shed much faster than one that calls for framing studs.
  
  

Half-Size Shed

• If you don't have a lot of space or you don't have a great need for a large shed, consider finding a design that you love and halving the dimensions. A smaller shed won't take as long to build, takes up less space, and is perfect for storing garden or barbecue equipment.