First question. What are the kids toys? What garden tools?
Make a list of exactly what you need to store. Then do a layout of how to access everything. Decide if you want future space available. Then wrap that with a structure. Now you have the design.
Once you know exactly what you want to store, you can size the shed.
Next step is to check your zoning, and zoning rules. This will tell you what you can build without a permit, and where you can put it on your lot.
Then you need to decide if it will be a temporary or permanent floor/foundation. Tax rules and building rules for foundations will give you your options here. I prefer a permanent concrete slab, but sometimes that is taxed differently and requires a foundation. Check your requirements. Another consideration for the floor type, is how steep the ramp will be to access the shed.
Once you have all this info, and have made decisions on floor/foundation, then style is the next question. Do you want to match, complement or contrast with the house design?
Now you are ready to make a thumbnail sketch of what you are going to build.
Some design tips.
Make it a module of your building material size, IE 4x8 sheets of OSB or plywood sheathing. And make that sheathing module work vertically as well.
I also prefer steep slope roofs. 12/12 is easy to stick frame. It sheds snow and rain very well too. Where are you located?
And an overhang all around helps protect the walls. I sheathe with OSB and cover with vinyl siding, but there are cheaper methods where the finished siding is the sheathing. I like full 2x4 framing with a double top plate but you can use a single top plate if the wall framing matches the joist spacing. And 24"o.c. wall studs are fine for a shed.
Prepare the site so that all organic material is removed and a pad, or base is installed that keeps water away from the shed and gives a stable base for it.
I like to frame the ceiling with at least a 4x4 opening for access into the attic. And another way to access the attic is from an outside door in the gable end. For more attic volume you can use a Gambrel roof, but consider how the style of that works for you and the fact that is is more difficult to frame.
Use sill seal, treated lumber for the sill plate and everything below the sill plate if you use a wood floor system.
Consider a window, glazing in the door, or a skylight for natural light.
Make the door bigger than you think you need.
I like 3 tab shingles and use aluminum edge metal and #30 felt. There are more advanced roof sheathing materials than OSB available as well as other options than felt.
The style of a shed is not just in the configuration of the masses, but also in the details of how you trim it out. All buildings are just boxes, with different detailing. Choose and size and locate your door and window(s) to reflect the style you are using.
To find out exactly what it will cost, do a spreadsheet. List every item needed.
Excavation and site prep. (Pad).
Foundation and footings (Or skids) Don't forget concrete formwork and anchor bolts.
Framing materials
Trim lumber
Metal brackets and connectors
Sheathing materials and siding (If included)
Roofing materials
Windows (Or skylights) and doors
Nails (Rough and finish) and staples
Caulk and paint
Sill seal
House wrap
Electrical?
Bill
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