For Ian, the goal was simple: reclaim the garage and create a dedicated space where all of his hobbies could live under one roof.
Between laser engraving, 3D printing, and tinkering with radio-controlled helicopters and cars, the garage had slowly become more workshop than storage space. What he needed wasn’t just another shed - it was somewhere comfortable enough to spend real time in.
That’s what led him to the Maple 12x6 Cedar Timber Shed timber shed.
More Than Just Storage
Ian and his family wanted something that felt like a natural extension of the home rather than a standard backyard shed. A steel structure never really appealed to them.
“We wanted a nice-looking studio space where I’d actually enjoy spending long periods of time,” Ian explains. “The Stilla sheds feel more like an additional room.”
The Maple’s proportions, approximately 2m x 3.6m, suited the available space perfectly. The double doors and opening windows were another major drawcard, allowing for plenty of airflow and natural light throughout the day.
For a workspace filled with equipment, ventilation mattered. But so did atmosphere. And timber brought something steel simply couldn’t.
Designed to Feel Comfortable
One of Ian’s favourite things about the shed is how well it fits into the backyard without feeling intrusive.
Despite working within fairly tight confines, the Maple sits comfortably in the space and complements the surrounding garden rather than dominating it.
“The style and look of the shed is definitely my favourite feature,” he says.
The timber construction also made customising the interior incredibly straightforward. Shelving was easy to install, and when it came time to wire the shed with lighting and power points, the electrician appreciated the practicality of working with timber instead of steel. And then there’s something you can’t really put on a spec sheet.
Built in Australia, Built to Go Together Properly
Another factor that stood out to Ian was the fact that the shed is Australian made.
The prefabricated panels arrived precisely manufactured, making the build process smooth from start to finish.
“The panels were made to perfection,” he says. “Along with the easy-to-follow instructions, it made the whole assembly procedure really straightforward.”
Ian managed to complete around 90% of the build himself, only needing help to position the first wall panels and lift the completed roof sections into place.
Before assembling the shed, he pre-painted the panels inside the garage during the hotter part of summer, then waited for cooler weather before construction day.
Once underway, the shed came together in only a few hours.
Small Details That Make a Big Difference
One thing Ian strongly recommends is adding roof insulation - particularly for Australian summers.
Combined with the opening windows and natural airflow, the insulated roof helps keep the space comfortable year-round, making it somewhere he genuinely enjoys spending time in.
A Space That Earned Its Place
What started as a practical solution to free up garage space has become something much more useful.
Ian now has a dedicated, weatherproof workshop where every hobby has a home, while the garage itself has been reclaimed for everyday family life.
Most importantly, it’s a space he actually wants to spend time in.
And that’s often the difference between a shed that simply stores things - and one that becomes part of how you live.
