The traditional workspace is rapidly evolving, with working from home becoming more prevalent, necessitating functional and aesthetically pleasing at-home office solutions. Now, more than ever, transforming underutilized spaces into efficient work areas is an incredible, inventive way to broaden your workspace while boosting productivity and functionality. And that’s where the real beauty of transforming barn-style sheds into functional workspaces comes into play. The ever-popular trend of ‘shed offices’ can help bridge the gap between the lack of available space inside the home and the desire to work in a conducive environment, offering both serenity and focus. If you have an underutilized barn-style shed or are considering installing one, sit tight and allow us to guide you on the incredible journey of transforming these spaces into inspiring workstations with Ulrich Lifestyle Structures. The Benefits of a Barn-Style Shed Workspace A barn-style shed provides many advantages as a workspace. Its rustic charm creates a cozy atmosphere, while its ample square footage allows creative customization. Your barn-style shed could quickly transform into a fantastic studio, home office, or workspace for small business owners like Etsy sellers, content creators, photographers, and more. And the bonus part? It doesn’t matter if your workspace’s demand is a need for more room or a need for peace, you’ll be sure to find your perfect haven with a transformed barn shed. An excellent example of such a transformation is the case of Mariette Burt-Cox from Texas, who enlisted the expertise of Ulrich Lifestyle Structures to transform a humble barn-style shed into her personalized, fully functional ‘she barn.’ The Journey to Transformation From a simple shed to a dedicated crafting sanctuary, Mariette’s ‘she barn’ became the peaceful and quiet workspace she always craved. As someone who frequently engages in craft projects and an avid mindfulness meditation practitioner, she desired a space she could claim as entirely her own, away from the hubbub of her house. When Mariette began her search for the perfect shed, she found that the buildings offered by big box stores lacked the durability and charm she desired. Fortunately, she stumbled upon Ulrich during her commute to work in Cleburne. Intrigued by their sturdy and customizable options, Mariette collaborated with sales consultant Ronnie Galbreath to bring her ‘she barn’ vision to life. Committed to their customers, the team at Ulrich guided Mariette in creating her ideal ‘she barn.’ It had to fit a specific location on her property. Hence, they delivered a 12×28 Premier Gambrel Cabin shell, the foundation of Mariette’s shed transformation. From Vision to Reality The real work began post-delivery as Mariette infused her personal touches to bring her ‘she barn’ vision to life. After insulating the interior and adding electricity, she adorned the ceiling with beautiful beadboard and installed stunning stone steps around the front porch. Adding a simple wall, she cleverly divided the space into two sections – one for her projects and the other for storage. Now, her barn shed serves as her creative studio and calming oasis. It has evolved into a multifunctional space where she dries herbs, instructs others on using essential oils, and even indulges her newfound love for painting. Amid her artful pursuits, she takes the time to meditate and unwind to soothing music. Beyond her indoor space, Mariette takes delight in her mornings spent on the porch, overseeing her lively farm life. Far removed from the noise of worldly affairs, Mariette’s shed transformation exemplifies a refreshing, soul-nourishing retreat in her very own backyard. Considerations So, if you find yourself longing for a space that nourishes your creativity and allows you to find solace, consider transforming your barn-style shed into a functional workspace. Draw inspiration from Mariette Burt-Cox’s ‘She Barn’ and collaborate with Ulrich to create a personalized haven tailored to your unique needs. Embrace the possibility of transforming a humble shed into a transformative space that reflects your passions and offers solace whenever needed. #ulrichsheds #customsheds #barnstylesheds

The need for extra storage space has become more prevalent in today’s fast-paced world. Many individuals grapple with whether to rent a storage unit or invest in a more sustainable solution – owning a storage shed. As rental storage unit prices continue to rise, investing in a storage shed becomes practical and a wise financial decision. This blog will explore why owning a storage shed is a valuable investment, offering long-term benefits and flexibility that renting simply cannot match. Rising Prices of Rental Storage Units Over the past few years, rental storage unit prices have increased. In fact, according to industry reports, the cost of renting a storage unit has increased by an average of 3-4% annually. With the rising demand for storage facilities and limited space availability, it’s no surprise that prices are constantly climbing. According to a recent report by SpareFoot, the national average cost of renting a 10×10 unit jumped by 6.6% in 2023 alone. This trend shows no signs of slowing down, with experts predicting further hikes in the coming years. On the other hand, the cost of owning a storage shed remains relatively stable. Once you factor in the initial investment (which can vary depending on size, material, and construction), you’re buying yourself years of storage space without the ever-escalating rent. Long-term Cost Effectiveness of a Storage Shed Instead of spending your hard-earned money on monthly rental fees, investing in a storage shed can be a financially sound decision. Initially, the upfront cost of purchasing a storage shed is higher than a few months’ rent for a storage unit. However, considering the long-term expenses, the advantages of owning a storage shed become apparent. Once you have purchased a storage shed, it is yours to keep indefinitely – meaning you no longer have to pay monthly rental fees. The money you save by not renting can add up significantly over time, resulting in substantial savings. Plus, with proper maintenance, a storage shed has a long lifespan, providing you with storage space for years. Versatility and Convenience One might argue that rental storage units offer more flexibility regarding location. However, modern storage sheds come in various sizes and styles, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your property regardless of size or layout. Additionally, owning a storage shed provides instant access to your belongings whenever you need them, without the hassle of visiting a remote storage facility. Beyond Saving Money: The Perks of Shed Ownership Sure, financial gain is great, but there’s more to shed ownership than just crossing “rent increase” off your worry list. Here are some additional benefits: Accessibility: No more driving across town to access your belongings. Your shed is suitable in your backyard and readily available whenever needed. Customization: Unlike cookie-cutter storage units, your shed can be personalized. Add shelves, pegboards, or a workbench to create a tailored storage space that reflects your hobbies and lifestyle. This level of customization and personalization is rarely available with rental storage units. Increased Property Value: A well-built, attractive shed can enhance your home’s curb appeal, potentially boosting its resale value down the line. Environmental Friendliness: Building your shed using recycled materials or choosing a pre-built option made from sustainable sources allows you to store your belongings with a clear conscience. Considerations Making the Smart Choice Of course, not every situation calls for a backyard shed. If you’re a frequent mover or have minimal storage needs, renting might still be the most practical option. But for homeowners with long-term storage requirements, especially those facing the pressure of rising rental costs, owning a shed is a smart investment that pays off in the short and long run. Ulrich Lifestyle Structures offers high-quality, customizable sheds that meet your storage needs and enhance your outdoor space. Unlike cheap sheds in big-box retail stores, Ulrich sheds are built to last, providing a long-term solution that saves you money in the long run. One of the most significant advantages of owning a storage shed is its versatility. Ulrich offers a range of shed styles, including The Retreat, The Rancher, The Heritage, The Lean-To, The Cabana, The Modern Studio, The Workshop, The Garden Cottage,  and The Byler, ensuring a shed fits any backyard or space requirement. These sheds can be used as hobby sheds, guest quarters, or even a dedicated space for gardening. When it comes to protecting your valuable items from the elements, Ulrich sheds excel. These custom-prebuilt sheds are constructed with durability in mind and are sealed off from inclement weather. Owning a storage shed ensures that your cars, zero turns, lawn equipment, tools, and other personal belongings remain protected and in good condition. One key element that makes owning a storage shed an investment is Ulrich’s commitment to quality. We take pride in our craftsmanship and strive to exceed industry standards. By choosing an Ulrich shed, you are investing in a product that is built to last, saving you from constantly replacing cheap, low-quality sheds. Another advantage of owning a storage shed is its portability. If you ever decide to move, you can take your Ulrich shed with you, providing a flexible storage solution that can adapt to your changing needs. As rental storage unit prices continue to increase, owning a storage shed becomes more cost-effective and financially wise. By investing in a high-quality shed from Ulrich, you save money in the long run and gain a versatile and durable space tailored to your lifestyle. #storagesheds #ulrichsheds

While mild compared to more northern states, Texas winters can still pack a punch with freezing temperatures, ice storms, and strong winds. These conditions can wreak havoc on your beloved backyard shed, potentially damaging its structure and jeopardizing its precious belongings. Creating and maintaining a shed during Texas winters requires specific considerations due to the state’s unique climate. Here are some essential tips for maintaining backyard and storage sheds during this season: Inspect and Repair the Roof Before winter sets in, inspect the roof of your shed for any signs of damage or wear. A study by the International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research found that regular roof maintenance can prolong the lifespan of a structure by up to 25%. Pay special attention to missing or damaged shingles and ensure the roof is properly sealed to prevent leaks. Ensure Proper Ventilation Adequate ventilation in your shed is crucial to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew. Ensure that vents are clear of obstructions, and consider adding additional ventilation if necessary. Weatherproof the Structure Texas winters can bring unexpected weather, from mild temperatures to sudden cold snaps. Weatherproofing your shed is essential. Use weather stripping and caulking to seal any gaps around doors and windows. The Department of Energy highlights that weatherproofing can reduce energy costs and protect structures from moisture and pests. Pest Control Pests seek shelter in colder months; your shed can be a prime target. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension recommends regular inspections and preventative measures to keep pests out. Seal holes and keep the area around the shed clear of debris where pests might nest. Check the Foundation The foundation should be inspected for cracks or shifts, mainly as the ground can freeze and thaw in Texas winters. Regular Cleaning and Decluttering Keep your shed organized and clean. This makes it more usable and allows you to inspect the interior regularly for any issues. Regular cleaning reduces dust and mold, which can deteriorate structures over time. Inspect and Maintain Doors and Windows Check doors and windows for drafts, cracks, or damage. Gaps in doors and windows can lead to significant heat loss and moisture issues. Prepare for Strong Winds In some parts of Texas, winter can bring strong winds. Secure your shed and any items around it to prevent damage. The Texas Windstorm Insurance Association advises anchoring sheds and using storm shutters for protection. Bonus Winterizing Tips for Extra Protection Clear the Snow or Ice: Regularly remove snow or ice from the roof to prevent excessive weight buildup and potential roof collapse. Mind the Melting: Melting snow or ice can create puddles around your shed, leading to foundation erosion. Dig drainage channels or redirect downspouts to keep water away from the base. Use Reflective Insulation: Reflective insulation can be particularly effective in Texas due to its ability to reflect heat. This type of insulation, which includes materials like radiant barriers, can help keep your shed warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Plant Windbreaks: Planting trees or shrubs strategically around your shed can be a natural windbreak, protecting the shed from strong winds and storms. Add a Dehumidifier: If your shed is tightly sealed, moisture can accumulate, especially with temperature fluctuations. A small dehumidifier can help keep the interior dry and prevent mold and mildew growth. Investing in Your Shed’s Future By following these essential tips, you can ensure your backyard shed withstands the Texas winter and continues to serve as a valuable storage space for years. Remember, a little preventive maintenance now can save you time, money, and heartache in the long run. So, grab your tools and give your shed the winterizing love it deserves! #storagesheds #backyardsheds

Ulrich offers different style garages for every kind of vehicle and storage need. Our garage designers work with you individually to design the garage that fits your needs, dreams, and wants. In this article, we will outline the 3 most popular models of garages we offer. At the end, receive advice from our garage experts on how to determine what size garage you will need. The Craftsman Our craftsman garage is our single story garage. It can have a basic wall height of 8, 9, or 10 feet. It can be built anywhere from a single car version all the way up to a three car version. The Craftsman has options for siding and roofing. We can do a metal roof asphalt, or shingle roof. We can also do a standard Hardy board lap siding all the way up to brick, stone, or stucco exterior. It is the perfect garage for parking one to three cars. The Cape Cod One of the most popular garage styles we build is a lofted, two story model, otherwise known as our Cape Cod garage. The Cape Cod garage is a popular model because it has a lofted second story above the garage which can be used for a home office space, workout room, playroom, man cave, she shed, which is all right above the garage. You still get the benefit of parking but with added extra square footage. This particular garage can be finished out whichever way you see fit with plumbing, heating, air, all the necessities that you would need. It could even be used as a mother-in-law suite. The Modern Garage Our modern garage is a new spin on a classic style which is considered a single slope roof style. This design picks and pulls from the mid-century modern era. It is very popular for backyard art studios or just for the customer that’s wanting to make a statement piece in the neighborhood, or even in their backyard. It looks great with modern garage doors. Many customers opt for a full glass door if they’re using it for a studio, maybe even your backyard workout space. It’s a popular garage for that. It can be built up from a single car variety all the way to a four car size. Garage sizes Our garage designer is often asked, “How much space do I need for my car or my truck?” We asked him to give us some insight on determining the right size garage you will need. A good rule of thumb is that generally, cars are going to be six to seven and a half feet wide. Your standard door’s gonna be two to three foot wide. So I like to leave at least 10 foot in our designs for the average car, 10 feet of width. That way if you park in the garage, you can open the door, not hit the wall, not hit another car that’s parked next to it. As far as the depth goes, your average size sedan, say a Honda accord, is about 17 foot in length for parking space. So I would recommend if you’re parking a midsize sedan, you need at least 18 to 20 feet of depth to park that sedan. A full size truck in comparison is gonna need at least 23 feet, a full size truck with an eight foot bed and four doors.  So if you have one of those big trucks, you’re gonna need probably about 23 feet to park. I typically recommend at least a 24 foot depth for something of that size. Your SUVs, mid-size SUVs to large size SUVs, are going to be anywhere from 18 to 20 feet in length, all the way up to 22 to 23 feet in length as well. If you’re parking a mid-size SUV and you are looking for the ideal size, I would recommend a 12 to 16 foot width and at least a 20 foot depth. So in general, a 16 x 20 will accommodate most vehicles and give you room for a little bit of storage inside.

Cabins are charming, inviting, and suit large families or solo inhabitants. Whether you like the idea of a sprawling cabin-style mansion overlooking sweeping vistas or a tiny house braced on a mountain, cabins represent all shapes and sizes. You may think of a cabin in the woods as a small short-term home with minimal square footage. However, quaint cottages have gradually grown into spacious, luxurious homes ideal for year-long living. Read on for more on why you may want to consider a cabin for your next home (and get ready to start packing). Log & Traditional Cabin Homes Cabins often have a rustic aesthetic, with unfinished wood interiors, exposed brick, and earth tones.  Many cabin owners decorate their walls with hunting trophies and family heirlooms, but new cabin homes have a modern farmhouse look.  If you have concerns about being too far away from civilization, have no fear! Cabins can be built nearby quaint mountain towns with everything you need. Furthermore, your kids and pets will love your cabin home. Creeks, hiking trails, and state parks are often no more than a few miles away. A log cabin is an excellent choice if you’re looking for something a little more luxurious but still close to nature. Log cabins have come a long way since the days of pioneers on the prairie .  You won’t need to worry about stability or longevity – log cabin builders use Western Cedar Log Siding and Western Red Cedar Lap Siding. Both are versatile and visually stunning and will last longer than the logs of yore. Log cabins work well for those looking for something unique with old-world charm. Your log home will stand out from your neighbors, guaranteed. Hunting Cabins Hunting enthusiasts often use cabin homes as hunting lodges. Like the standard cabins mentioned above, hunting cabins are no longer primitive. Septic tanks, electricity, and running water are commonplace in modern hunting cabins. If you have family members or a group of friends that love to hunt, a cabin home utilized as a hunting lodge is an ideal getaway for weekend excursions and a full-time dwelling. They have everything you need for daily living and the aesthetic appeal of traditional hunting cabins – just with more amenities. Lake Houses Lake houses are perfect for families, couples, or singles that love nature and water but may not enjoy the tropical climate of the beach. Cabins built on a lake generally have private docks or marinas nearby. Fishing, swimming, and lounging lakeside are steps away from your front door. Lake houses are popular with families and are a great option if you have kids. Find a family-friendly lake neighborhood near you for the ultimate lake lifestyle. Or, if you recently retired and want a quiet escape from the rush of city life, a lake house in a state or national park is a peaceful option.  Anglers love cabins by the lake because they can go fishing whenever desired – without lugging a heavy boat behind the car or worrying about where to park. AirBnB or Rentals The general population loves cabin getaways. Honeymooners, families, and solo travelers will enjoy spending time at your peaceful respite. Through Airbnb, you can approve everyone who books a stay, ensuring your home receives the respect it deserves.  Try making your cabin as unique as possible, with outdoor swings, rustic decor, or even a theme. For example, if your Airbnb cabin sits near a lake, you could use nautical home decorations. Mountain homes may prefer using faux fur rugs and antiques.  However, the best part about renting out your cabin as an Airbnb (or a standard rental) is the income. While your cash flow may depend on what you charge for rent, you can potentially double your monthly revenue by barely lifting a finger.  If an Airbnb sounds faintly too hands-off for you, you can also rent your cabin. You will be able to thoroughly vet and interview prospective tenants, verify income, and ensure the inhabitants are the correct fit. Rentals have the same positive income impact as AirBnbs but may work better for those that want long-term tenants. Like most real estate, location is vital. Your Airbnb or rental cabin should be in a prime location that either takes renters on an off-the-grid adventure or gives them access to nearby natural attractions, like waterfalls, mountains, and local shops.  Vacation Homes Is there anything better than a mountain getaway? Using your cabin as a vacation or weekend home is perfect if you do not want to embrace cabin living full-time. Vacation homes also make excellent stays for working remotely.  Cabins make top-notch vacation homes due to their charm and effortless vibe. A cabin home near a lake is a notably sweet spot for summer trips with the family – especially if you have a luxurious in-law suite. And, once you have an empty nest, a vacation home smoothly turns into a full-time dwelling. If your travel tends to occur on weekends, you can use your cabin as a weekend home. A weekend home is similar to a vacation home and is in a vacation-friendly area, like the beach or mountains.  You can rent out the cabin for the remaining days of the week or keep tabs on the property from afar. Either way, knowing you have a soothing retreat arranged every weekend makes Mondays remarkably better. Bottom Line Cabins are versatile and unique living spaces with plenty of uses. Whether you want a new long-term home or a vacation spot, a cabin gives you more freedom and space to relax. You can earn extra income from a rental or Airbnb, plan a stay during hunting season, or try your hand at paddleboarding on the lake. Gone are the days of primitive cabin stays or full-time homes without electricity. The modern cabin homes of today have everything you need to call home. If you want to get out of the city and into the great outdoors while remaining comfy, a cabin is perfect for getting away and enjoying the stunning world around you. Ulrich Cabins

So, you’ve just bought an Ulrich Lifestyle building – congratulations! You picked one that was already built and sitting on the sales lot, so you’re ready to take it home and start filling it up. Maybe you bought a run-in shed, so perhaps fill it with a donkey or two? Warning: they do make loud noises, sometimes in the middle of the night. But wait, you drove your little Toyota Corolla here. How are you going to get that 12×20 storage shed home with you? Well okay, that’s obvious; you’re not going to be fitting a barn into your trunk. You’re going to need us to deliver that, and lucky for you, we’ve got a great delivery team! We have a few blog posts about the delivery process already (and even one with a video), but this post is specifically to answer the questions we frequently hear from customers. If you have additional questions that aren’t listed here, feel free to contact us! We’d love to chat with you. Skim this post: Here are the questions we’ll be answering. What site preparation do I need to do before delivery? What kind of gravel should I use for my pad? How long will the delivery and installation take? What kind of vehicle is used to deliver the building? How wide is the truck and trailer? How tall will the building be when sitting on the trailer? Do I need to be home for delivery? What if there is a fence blocking access to the set-site? Will Ulrich Lifestyle remove it for me? If there are trees or branches blocking access to the set-site, will Ulrich Lifestyle cut or remove them for me? I ordered a ramp for my shed; will the delivery crew attach it for me? If there is open space between the ground and bottom of my building, should I enclose it to prevent animals from getting under the building? Can I provide my own block instead of using Ulrich Lifestyle block? Will Ulrich Lifestyle move my building for me if I need to relocate? 1. What site preparation do I need to do before delivery? Sheds with square footage of 252 square feet and under (14×18, 12×20, and smaller) can be set on blocks.  All garages and buildings larger than 252 square feet must be set on a level, flat pad – either gravel or concrete. The property should allow the delivery truck and trailer to drive to the site where the building will be set with no fences or trees/tree limbs blocking access. Ulrich Lifestyle 2. What kind of gravel should I use for my pad? When building a pad for your building, it is important to choose gravel that will not slip and slide.  For example, loose pea gravel is not the best choice as it can give way under the weight of a shed.  Most people choose 21A gravel or crusher run for their pad.  Both gravels pack and hold nicely to keep a level and flat surface, while also provide water drainage. 3. How long will the delivery and installation take? Delivery and installation usually takes an average of 1 – 2 hours, depending on the site where the building is being set.  The more level and flat the area is, and the fewer obstacles there are, the faster the installation will go.  With more obstacles such as fences and trees, and with an uneven site, the installation will likely take longer to complete. 4. What kind of vehicle is used to deliver the building? Ulrich Lifestyle buildings are delivered with a commercial-grade pickup truck pulling a flatbed shed trailer, with the building loaded on this trailer. 5. How wide are the truck and trailer? The truck and trailer are about 8 feet, 6 inches wide. Merlyn (aka “Squirrel” to his friends and coworkers) works with the truck driver and a trailer remote to get this 10×12 loaded up for delivery. 6. How tall will the building be when sitting on the trailer? The peak of our tallest buildings usually sits about 13 feet 6 inches from the ground when loaded on the trailer. This gives you an visual of the height. It also lets you see a shed delivery convoy – an extra wide load requires escorts front and back. 7. Do I need to be home for delivery? We prefer that you are home when your building is delivered, mainly to show the delivery crew exactly where you want the shed installed.  If you are not able to be there personally, we request that an adult you trust and who knows where you want the building set (could be a spouse/grown child/neighbor) be there at the time of delivery. 8. If there is a fence blocking access to the set-site, will Ulrich Lifestyle remove it for me? The customer is responsible for preparing their site, so we ask that they handle fence removal. 9. If there are trees or branches blocking access to the set-site, will Ulrich Lifestyle cut or remove them for me? Again,  each customer is responsible for site preparation, which includes trimming and/or removing trees that may interfere with delivery of the building.  If you are not sure if you have obstacles on your property, consult your sales person. They may choose to do a site visit to give you an idea of what might need to be done. 10. If I ordered a ramp, will the delivery crew attach it for me? Yes, the delivery crew will install your ramp for you. 11. If there is open space between the ground and bottom of my building, should I enclose it to prevent animals from getting under the building? Feel free to enclose the opening between the ground and bottom of your building, but we suggest you leave room for air flow beneath the building.  This will prevent moisture from being trapped beneath the building.  Lattice is an option many shed owners choose to install; it looks nice and allows air to flow beneath the building. 12. If I have my own block, can you use them instead of Ulrich Lifestyle‘s block? The delivery team can use your block if you wish, but the “free delivery” is part of the package sale – no refund is given if Ulrich Lifestyle uses your own block instead of theirs. 13. Will Ulrich Lifestyle move my building for me if I need to relocate? Yes, Ulrich Lifestyle offers shed relocation services to our customers at competitive rates. Rates will vary depending on the size of the building, geographic area, and distance of the move. We hope that these questions and answers have been helpful. If you have any more questions, please let us know! We would be delighted to answer them for you. More questions? Interested in buying a shed? #GettingStarted #Delivery #SitePreparation

Step 1: Choose Your Size This is the most important decision to make correctly for the perfect shed design for your storage building. (Note: Byler is now a part of Ulrich Lifestyle). Storage Building Sizes Size is the most critical part of shed design. Storage buildings are available in two foot increments (odd numbered sizes are available, if necessary) all the way from 6X6 to 28X40, so there is no reason not to get exactly the size you need. While the most common problem is not having enough space, we have seen situations where clients purchased buildings that were too large for their needs. Either dilemma is equally frustrating, and it’s worth spending a little time up front to figure out exactly how much space you will need. Storage Shed Size: 3 Considerations There are essentially three shed design considerations when choosing your storage shed size: Storage Space, Yard Space, and Permit Requirements. Storage Space This is the first one, and perhaps the most important. If you know exactly what large items you will be storing for the entire life of this building, you can simply lay them out on the ground and measure what you need. Just remember to allow room for the smaller items, as well as access and movement within the building! If you just need “AS MUCH SPACE AS POSSIBLE!!!” then it would be best to proceed directly to the other two items regarding size. Yard Space While this is not a problem for some of our clients, most people do have a finite amount of yard. However, having the building overpower the yard is not a common problem except with the very smallest of yards. The more common considerations have to do with whether or not it will fit “between those two trees and the swing set” or some other similar issue. Just make sure it will fit where you want it to go! Storage Building Permits We are frequently asked, “Do I Need a Permit to Build a Shed?” This is the consideration that ends up making the size decision for many people. In the state of Virginia, a “building permit” is typically required for any building over 256 square feet (a 12X20 building is just under that benchmark). (Note: most localities still require you to verify the placement of the building with the zoning office prior to installation. This is usually called a “Zoning Permit” or something similar, and is not as involved and costly as a typical “building permit.”) 256 square feet is also the size where a “permanent foundation” is typically required. While this is not a “deal-killer” necessarily, it does add another dimension, some extra costs, and an additional inspection to the process. A 12X20 building is the largest that can be easily installed with only blocks or a gravel base. We’ve addressed the foundational questions of shed design in The 5 Most Popular Shed Foundations. You’ve just finished Step 1 out of 5. Congratulations! You are on your way to a great shed design that will serve you well for years to come. Step 1 out of 5 done! Only 4 more to go.