Wooden it be nice

Kya de Longchamps offers advice on selecting an ideal timber retreat

A simple store, a much worshipped man-cave, the shed is the outdoor building to beat all others for economy, looks and downright usefulness. Wood is a traditional material that sits perfectly in horticultural surrounds. Follow our simple tips to select an ideal timber retreat this summer.

Wooden sheds come in a variety of sizes and designs, and whatever size you think you need, once settled in, you’ll dream of a couple more metres to clog up with horticultural endeavours. Buy the largest quality shed you can afford to meet your growing needs. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) labels are the gold star of certification for sustainable timber. Larger sheds, especially in log forms, are marketed as outdoor living spaces, but go for practicality above overt cuteness. Slender overhung ‘verandas’ offer eye-watering charm but little practical benefit, bar setting the scene for an oversized Bavarian cuckoo clock, and block the door against mowers.