So DH is building a shed in our backyard. I'm way ahead of him (the roof rafters aren't even on) and I'm thinking paint colours and plantings! In any case, it'll be shaped similar to this:
[img]http://www.letslandscapetogether.net/webstart/webimage/images/p28.jpg[/img]
The windows are similarly sized. And the door in the same place, but without the dormer. I want to do symmetrical, structured plantings under the windows. I have about 4-5' to work with under each window. I want something really modern looking, but lush. Ornamental grasses, shrubs, what would you suggest?
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"What about the impact of rain, snow and sunshine of a wooden shed? I notice most people normally go for the vinyl ones like you see at home depot and Costco."
Wood is probably a longer lasting material outside as long as it's painted or sealed, and such. There are millions of old wooden buildings around because it does last. It's really only when it isn't maintained that it starts to break down.
Vinyl probably won't last anywhere near as long as it will break down sooner but it is popular because it requires less regular maintenance and when it comes to things like sheds, they are supplied in a form that is easier for the average person to put together so they are popular rather than better.
So getting a shed in a kit form that is light, no maintenance, and easy to put together is the bonus of vinyl but if you have the skill and know how, wood is probably the material of choice. Besides, wood is environmentally way more freindly.
Proper construction materials, weatherproof sheathing, roof, shingles etc would make it perfectly weatherproof. Look at summerwood sheds, they cost several thousands of dollars and are all wood. Those vinyl plastic ones are u g l y! Great if I had an acre and could hide it, but in a typical suburban back yard the shed has to look good!
What about the impact of rain, snow and sunshine of a wooden shed? I notice most people normally go for the vinyl ones like you see at home depot and Costco.
Good idea Jeep. Our local superstore is selling off their fireplaces for $100 but I don't think we're allowed backyard fires here, it would have to be gas. They also had the propane heaters as well for $100, I picked one up. I know what you mean about the fireplace but for the convenience of flcking a switch, I prefer the propane.
I saw the show on TV Take It Outside and thought of you the one that they use as a promo. It is the one with the fireplace and sofas. I think the fireplace is such a great idea as it gets cool in the evening and so much nicer than a propane heater. With the talent that Jake has it would be a easy weekend project for him. Man I guess he gets enough ideas from you he sure doesn't need us giving more jobs but when I saw your new set I couldn't help myself.
I often find that you get ideas looking at the landscaping at the entrances to the nicer malls in an area. They seem to use large rocks mixed with some grasses and a couple of evergreens and then put in just a few annuals for color.
I can't stand the look of weathered wood I would rather paint or stain it. Is the shed going to be on the ground so you can plant or do you need things for pots. I would go for an assortment of evergreen shrubs in different shapes and sizes for some change. Here we grow lots of Rhodo's and they are so beautiful in the spring and green year round but I don't know if they will stand your winters.
No the shed will be painted, not natural wood. Natural wood looks good for the first year or two then it goes yucky. I will do window boxes but I want something at the base because I want it to look good in the winter too, not just annuals.
I would leave the shed natural if the wood will look like that.
For planting what sun/shade is in that location ?
Karen, the shed will look lovely......how about window boxes with trailing plants....I think it will be more suitable for that....JMO