Shacking up

When it comes to needing more space, a private relaxation area, or a hobbies room, she shacks and man caves provide the solution for many people.

A ‘she shack’, or she shed, refers to a dedicated space designed specifically for women as a personal retreat or sanctuary within their property, similar to the concept of a stereotypical man cave.

Various companies these days offer a range of small, pre-fabricated, and custom-built sheds that can be easily turned into a man or woman cave, an office, a children’s playhouse, or even a cottage industry base.

The beauty of a separate shed is that it’s away from the main residence, offering peace and quiet when needed.

A “cave” will usually include a work bench, television, and maybe a pool table and bar, while she sheds are more typically feminine with reading nooks, comfy chairs, day beds, and maybe a stereo system.

No one size or shape fits all. Some owners house cars, boats, and motorbike collections in their caves, creating a storage and leisure zone all in one.

Women stereotypically opt for more feminised spaces where they can escape the family, rest and relax, read or write a book, or indulge in a spot of craft work, whatever takes their fancy.

Of course, one option is to create a shared man cave/she shed. Using an existing shed/barn/garage works if you have them available, and they can be converted to the required building standards, but if you don’t then a customised new-build, or even a kitset project might be the answer. Many companies who specialise in such builds can also sort council consents, power, solar, and water connections too.

COSTS
Prices vary according to size and construction materials.
Search around and you’ll find some new and kitsets as low as $6999, although that doesn’t include construction, and infrastructure costs.