The "gin shed" is the garden bar's lighter cousin: brighter, greener and more summer-house than snug. It's about the space, so treat the name as a style, not a drinks list. Plenty of gin sheds serve as much tonic and elderflower as anything else.
The look
- Pale and pastel colours: sage, duck-egg, blush or crisp white on the outside, with a lighter interior.
- Glass and greenery: big windows, potted herbs and trailing plants.
- Botanical touches: citrus trees in pots, herbs on the counter, framed botanical prints.
- Rattan, wicker and light timber furniture.
- Copper and brass accents.
The building
A summerhouse or a shed with generous glazing suits the look better than a dark, closed bar shed. See bar shed vs summerhouse and converting a summerhouse.
The bar
A short counter, a back bar shelf to display glasses and bottles, and a fridge or ice bucket. See back bar shelving and cooling without power.
Plants that cope
Herbs like rosemary, thyme and mint grow happily in pots by the door. Citrus and other tender plants need to come into the house or a frost-free space for winter. Inside the shed, choose plants that tolerate temperature swings.
Lighting
Festoons, lanterns and warm-white fairy lights suit the style. Use lights rated for where they are used. See festoon lights.
Not just for gin
Stock good alcohol-free spirits, tonics, cordials and fresh fruit. A gin shed should be a nice place for everyone, including those who aren't drinking. See the hosting checklist.
Furniture and layout
Gin sheds tend to be sat in rather than stood at. A small table with two or three comfortable chairs, or a built-in bench with cushions, suits the style better than a row of tall stools. Keep the counter short, against the back wall, so the windows and the view stay open. If you want to serve outside, open the doors wide rather than cutting a hatch into the glazing. See seating.
Damp is still the enemy
Light colours show mould spots more than dark ones. Ventilate, keep fabrics off cold walls and bring cushions indoors in winter. See damp and ventilation.
Pick one colour for the outside and one for the inside, then add plants. The style comes together faster than any other bar theme.
Quick answers
What is a gin shed?
A garden bar styled light and botanical, often in a summerhouse, with pale colours, plants and glass.
What colour should I paint a gin shed?
Soft greens, blues, pinks or white suit the style. Use an exterior paint suited to the timber.