A small garden story, told in sweet chestnut
The objective of this shed project, created by Gavin Coyle Studio, was to design and build a compact, carefully detailed shed for storing and displaying gardening essentials, using locally sourced British timber.
Commissioned by garden designer Nick Couch, the brief called for a structure that would feel purposeful yet understated. A storage solution that would sit comfortably within its surroundings rather than compete with them. Incorporating timber cladding into the design offered both practical and visual benefits.
With many urban gardens working within tight spatial constraints, the project explored how a shed could be designed with a minimal footprint while still offering generous and flexible storage.
A Thoughtful use of Space
From the beginning, the focus was on making the most of a small space. The interior features adjustable aluminium shelving, allowing tools and equipment of varying heights to be stored neatly and accessed with ease.
This adaptability means the shed can respond to changing needs over time, whether housing long-handled tools, pots, or smaller gardening accessories.
Aluminium was also chosen for the roof and coordinating ironmongery, introducing a subtle contemporary note while ensuring durability and weather resistance.
Carefully Chosen Materials
Gavin selected our sweet chestnut cladding for the exterior and sweet chestnut timber was also used for the internal structure. The beautiful grain and natural durability of sweet chestnut makes it particularly well suited to garden buildings, while its tone brings a welcoming softness to the design.
A key aim was to use a timber that would age gracefully, gradually developing a silvery patina and blending effortlessly into the garden landscape.
As the material weathers, it enhances rather than detracts from the surrounding planting scheme, reinforcing the design as a considered garden feature.
A balance of craft and responsibility
Sustainability played an important role throughout the project. Gavin prioritised British-grown timber, helping to reduce transportation impact and support responsible forestry.
This commitment to considered material choices reflects the overall ethos behind the design: creating something modest in scale, but thoughtful and lasting in execution.
Gavin Coyle Studio worked closely with our experienced team of timber merchants here at Vastern Timber. This meant we were able to provide valuable guidance on selecting the right cladding specie and profile, making the most of the chosen materials.
This also ensured that the final outcome was a balance of practicality, durability, and visual warmth – resulting in a small shed with a big sense of purpose!
PROJECT DETAILS
Timber
Cladding: Sweet Chestnut
Designer / Maker
Gavin Coyle Studio
gavincoyle.co.uk
Commissioned by
Nick Couch
tendedland.com
Photography
Nick Couch / Gavin Coyle
