Ross and Nicola Wilkinson, a family from Gabalfa, Cardiff, found an unconventional solution to provide more living space for their two eldest daughters. The couple built two detached cabins in their back garden for their teenage daughters, Megan and Ashleigh, to have their own bedrooms. Originally, the family had a static caravan on the property that was not safe to live in, so they demolished it after a party. This left them with a lack of space, and as they couldn’t afford to extend the house, they came up with the idea of creating private lodges for the girls outside.
The cabins, named “The Shed” by Megan’s friends, were not just standard garden sheds but weather-resistant log cabins equipped with double-glazing and locking doors. Ross, a carpenter, managed the construction, from laying foundations to installing underground electricity. The girls, aged 14 and 15 at the time, were thrilled with the new setup, enjoying the independence and privacy it provided.
Despite initial doubts from some family members, the cabins soon became beloved living spaces for the girls. Megan shared that she cherished her shed because it allowed her to have her own space, listen to music late at night, host friends without disturbing others, and watch films without using headphones. Living in the cabins also provided her with unique experiences, like hearing cats and foxes on the roof.
The Wilkinson family’s creative solution gained attention on social media when Megan’s house tour video went viral, amassing over a million views. While the girls no longer live in the cabins, they look back on their time there fondly. As the family prepares to move to a new home, the house, complete with the sheds, is now on the market for £325,000.
The story of the Wilkinson family showcases their innovative approach to creating additional living space and highlights the importance of personal space and independence for teenagers. It also demonstrates the value of thinking outside the box when faced with space constraints in a home.