A new trend is emerging that’s catching the attention of homeowners and builders. Enter the ‘shouse’ – a clever portmanteau of ‘shed’ and ‘house’ that’s redefining residential architecture and offering a unique solution to the Southern Highlands region’s housing challenges.
Richard Hamilton, Managing Director of Building Versatility and Shed Solutions, has observed a significant uptick in interest in these hybrid structures. “We’ve seen an increase in inquiries of all shapes and sizes,” Richard notes. “From converting existing small sheds into home offices or hobby spaces, to large residential builds with a shed aesthetic. It made us realise there was a gap in the market in the Southern Highlands for a building company that could combine their skills in building both sheds and houses.”
What exactly is a shouse, and why is it gaining traction?
A shouse blends the durability and cost-effectiveness of a shed with the comfort and functionality of a traditional home. These structures can range from simple conversions of existing sheds to purpose-built residences that embrace an industrial aesthetic while providing all the amenities of modern living.
Richard explains the construction process: “For the most straightforward designs, we build the exterior structure as a shed. This can go up quickly to make the job weatherproof. We then use more conventional house building methods for the interior.” This hybrid approach allows for faster construction times and potentially significant cost savings.
The appeal of a shouse
The appeal of shouses extends beyond their unique appearance. In a time when housing costs are skyrocketing, these structures offer a more affordable alternative. “Most people are attracted to building a shouse because it’s more economical than a house constructed in the conventional way,” Richard points out. “Home construction costs have increased by almost 50% in the past few years, and people are naturally looking for more cost-effective alternatives.”
But economy isn’t the only factor driving the shouse trend. These structures also offer practical benefits that resonate with Southern Highlands residents. “The metal cladding is low maintenance and fire resistant, so it’s a great choice for sites that have a bushfire rating,” Richard explains. This durability makes shouses an attractive option in a region where bushfire preparedness is a significant concern.
Moreover, shouses seem to capture a certain regional charm. “The shouse fits well in regional areas like Southern Highlands as they are reminiscent of the traditional farm sheds that are so common in the area,” Richard observes. This blend of modern functionality and rural aesthetics has broad appeal, from those seeking a simple home office to high-end clients looking for architect-designed homes with a distinctive look.
Important considerations when building a shouse
Potential shouse owners should be aware of important considerations. Richard advises, “The first thing to consider is whether you need planning approval for your project.” While minor conversions might not require extensive paperwork, creating an entire dwelling within a shed typically necessitates a development application, including compliance with energy efficiency standards.
For those looking to maximise cost savings, Richard recommends keeping the design simple. “A straightforward rectangular shed is cost-effective to build because of its simplicity, and if you vary from that, you start to lose that economy,” he notes. However, he also stresses the importance of quality where it counts: “One upgrade from a regular shed that we would recommend is windows. Good quality double-glazed windows are important for thermal comfort in the Southern Highlands.”
Do shouses have a future in the Southern Highlands?
Richard is optimistic. “The shouse trend is fairly new, and we expect it to grow because of its cost efficiency and practicality,” he predicts. “It’s a really great way of building a secondary dwelling or granny flat that can accommodate extended family members or be rented out for extra income.”
The rise of shouses also presents an opportunity for companies like Building Versatility and Shed Solutions. Unlike many shed supply companies that simply provide materials, these sister companies offer end-to-end solutions. “Building Versatility has a team of tradespeople with experience in building both sheds and homes,” Richard explains. “We can assist with the design and also connect you with the right consultants to obtain your planning approval. Essentially, we are a one-stop shop for a Southern Highlands shouse.”
As housing pressures continue to mount and homeowners seek creative solutions, the shouse concept is likely to gain further traction. It offers a blend of affordability, practicality, and regional charm that resonates with many Southern Highlands residents. Whether you’re looking for a home office, a granny flat, or an entirely new way of living, the shouse might just be the innovative solution you’ve been seeking.
For those intrigued by the possibilities of shouse living, Richard and his team at Building Versatility and Shed Solutions stand ready to turn these unique visions into reality, one hybrid structure at a time.
Browse our services, or get in touch with our team to discuss your Shed House dream.
