They remind me of the “Folly” buildings popular in Victorian architecture, tiny out-buildings often hidden on great estates. The “Folly” was often built in elaborate or whimsical style and was a favorite trysting place for Victorian ladies and gentlemen. The modern incarnation of the potting shed and the antithesis of the “Man-Cave”, the “She-Shed” makes a marvelous canvas for the romantic and frivolously feminine.
It was Tilly Trout that got me thinking about it. She recorded part of her podcast from her little shed several weeks ago. When I saw Tilly’s, I knew I had to have one of my very own.
Out in back of the Little Church is a huge and poorly constructed addition. We’ve long been on the fence about whether to tear the abomination down or bend it, somehow, to our will. Really, it was a matter of mathematics. Would it be cheaper to rehab what was extant or to tear it down and start over? After a long, careful look and lots of scribbling the verdict was to start over, even though the demolition is more than we can afford this year.
Part of that nasty addition is a tiny room with its own little deck. Hmmmm…
In my imagination, it was not a busted up ol’ room that hadn’t been occupied in over a decade. It was a tiny, yet resplendent feminine oasis spilling over with flowers and scented with lavender. The truth is somewhere in between.
Here’s where we started. Actually, Carl had done a significant amount of clearing up before this photo was taken.
I found a rustic stone patio under an overgrowth of sod. I’ve just about got it cleared now! And though it’s hardly “overflowing with flowers”, I have made a little start (as much as my withered brown thumb will allow) with planting a few living things.
I’m rather pleased with finding this old sink among the debris.
Teddy and Pops built some stairs…
…which can be exhausting.
I’ve found some sweet furniture, too.
I can’t wait to post photos of the inside when it’s done!
