This week I decided to makeover the garden shed, which once was my boy’s clubhouse when they were younger. My mom had purchased a book called KEEP OUT Build Your Own Backyard Clubhouse, and the building idea went from there.
The boys built the clubhouse in my parent’s garage, with my dad teaching them how to measure, cut, and use tools, and they even ran electrical wires. After the clubhouse was built in their garage, they dismantled it and transferred it to our house. It was a fun project and a great way for the boys to learn a few handy life lessons.
Eventually, as all kids do, they grow up, and I was left with a very sturdy building on the side of our property that has been converted into a storage shed.
KEEP OUT Build Your Own Backyard Clubhouse
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LET’S GIVE THE CLUBHOUSE A WHITEWASH
When the boys first transferred their clubhouse to the property, it had plywood siding, but since they were putting it in a visible area of the yard, I had them dress it up a little bit by adding the cedar shakes.
Every few years, I’d stain the cedar shakes to keep them looking fresh, but this year I decided no more stain and went with a whitewash to match the other buildings on our property, which are white with green roofing and trim.
I used a paint brand called American Heartland Exterior Latex Flat White Barn, House & Fence Paint.
I used a hand brush and felt the paint was very watery.
After I started, I realized that I probably should have used my paint sprayer to save time, but sometimes, I don’t think things through.
I also hate cleaning the paint sprayer.
LESS CLUBHOUSE, MORE GARDEN SHED
Next, I cleaned the trim around the door by giving it a little more shape with a few boards. I also replaced the trim around one window and added a little shelf.
Since the windows didn’t exactly match in size, I covered one window with vintage mirrors I had left over from a vanity project.
The door, trim, and along the roofline received a fresh coat of Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch Latex Paint, Gloss Hunter Green.
As for the landscape, I removed a pallet that was in front of the door and built the small green step.
I also plan to leave the catmint since it’s pretty low maintenance, even though it looks rough due to the dry weather we’re experiencing.
I’m hoping it starts to perk up and give off some pretty purple bloom again.
For now, shredded straw around the CATMINT, and steps is what it will be.
I think it looks so much more like a garden shed vs. a clubhouse; how about you?
XOXO
Emily
And it all started with a book.
Keep Out!: Build Your Own Backyard Clubhouse
Are you looking for more garden ideas? You may enjoy the posts listed below.
HOW TO MAKE GARDEN ART ON A STICK
CLUCK OFF! A NOT SO SCARY SCARECROW
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