Backyard Design Ideas & Layouts for Modern Urban Style Sheds
- Jeremy Horning
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Adding a Modern or Urban Style Shed to your backyard is more than just extra space, it’s an opportunity to enhance your outdoor living, storage, and project areas. Urban Sheds’ Modern Series, the original Urban Style Shed, combines sleek, minimalist design with unmatched durability, making it perfect for storage, workshops, and versatile backyard uses.
Our sheds are built onsite by certified Urban Sheds craftsmen, with 16” O.C. framing, 2x6 rafters, 2x6 door headers, and 50-year SmartSide siding. They are built to last decades, and their open interior shell allows homeowners to configure the space for their specific needs.
This guide provides detailed layout strategies, design inspiration, and practical tips for making the most of your Modern / Urban Style Shed.
1. Choosing the Right Location in Your Backyard
Placement is key for both functionality and aesthetics:
Against fences or property lines: Maximizes usable yard space while keeping the shed discreet
Corner placement: Ideal for large storage sheds or workshop layouts, leaving open space for gardening or play areas
Near patios or decks: Makes the shed feel integrated into your backyard design
Standalone feature: Modern Series sheds are stylish enough to serve as a backyard focal point
Example: A 10×14 Modern Series shed placed along the side fence can double as a workshop with an organized storage area, while leaving the center yard open for landscaping or outdoor activities.
Tip: Consider sun exposure if you plan to use the shed as a workspace—large windows can provide natural light without overheating the interior.
2. Functional Layout Ideas for Storage and Workshops
Even without finished interiors, careful planning ensures the shed is highly functional:
A. Dedicated Storage Zones
Install tall shelving along walls for tools, garden supplies, and seasonal items
Use wall-mounted racks for bikes, ladders, and equipment
Divide the shed into sections for “frequently used” vs. “long-term storage”
B. Workshop Layouts
Allocate one side for benches and work tables, another side for storage
Use pegboards or slat walls to organize hand tools
Ensure clear central space for larger projects or assembly work
C. Combination Uses
Example: A 12×16 shed with a rear wall of shelving for storage, a front bench for woodworking, and open center floor space for hobby projects
Modular design allows future flexibility for expanding storage or work areas
Tip: The Modern Series’ 16” O.C. framing and 2x6 rafters support heavier shelving, tool racks, or lofted storage platforms without compromising structural integrity.
3. Styling Your Modern / Urban Style Shed
Even functional sheds can enhance your backyard design:
Minimalist Exterior: Straight lines, simple trim, and smooth siding create a clean, modern aesthetic
Window Placement: Large windows provide natural light and improve the shed’s visual appeal
Color Palette: Neutral tones or muted shades complement most backyard landscapes
Landscaping Integration: Plant shrubs, add a pathway, or build a small patio to make the shed feel intentional
Example: One homeowner installed a 10×12 Modern Series shed with gray SmartSide siding, tall windows, and a stone path leading to the shed door, creating a seamless extension of their backyard garden.
4. Maximizing Interior Functionality
Even though interiors are unfinished, there are ways to optimize the space:
Vertical Storage: Install lofted shelving or platforms for seasonal items
Heavy Equipment Zones: Dedicate a corner for lawn mowers, wheelbarrows, or machinery
Hobby Area: Keep one section open for woodworking, crafts, or DIY projects
Flexible Floor Plan: Avoid permanent partitions—this allows the shed to adapt to changing needs
Tip: Use durable flooring materials like treated plywood or composite decking to handle heavy equipment or workshop projects.
5. Planning for Durability and Longevity
A true Urban Shed is built to last:
16” O.C. framing, 2x6 rafters, 2x6 door headers provide unmatched strength
50-year SmartSide siding resists wind up to 200 mph, 1.75” hail, and decades of weather exposure
Certified craftsmanship: Built onsite by trained Urban Sheds professionals ensures structural integrity
30-year structural warranty offers peace of mind
These features allow your shed to function safely and effectively for years, whether used for storage, workshop, or a combination.
6. Examples of Functional Backyard Shed Layouts
Small Shed (8×12): Perfect for tool storage, bikes, and seasonal items
Medium Shed (10×14): Combines storage and workshop space for DIY projects
Large Shed (12×20+): Offers multiple zones for storage, equipment, and hobby work, with room to expand in the future
Case Study: One homeowner used a 12×16 Modern Series shed to create:
Rear wall shelving for garden tools and seasonal storage
Front wall workbench for woodworking
Open center space for equipment assembly
Large windows for natural light, making the shed feel bright and functional
7. Why Homeowners Choose Urban Sheds
Structural Strength: 16” O.C. framing, 2x6 rafters, and 2x6 door headers
Durable Materials: 50-year SmartSide siding withstands wind, hail, and weather
Onsite Craftsmanship: Certified Urban Sheds professionals build every shell onsite
Flexible Interiors: Shell is ready for storage, workshops, or other backyard functions
Modern Style: Sleek design complements any backyard
Proven Performance: Original Modern Series, aka Urban Style, built for homeowners who value quality
Tip: The Modern Series allows homeowners to start with a strong, durable shell and customize their space over time.