This modern backyard reading retreat is a dream

These days, there’s a backyard retreat for just about every creative endeavor. Architectural hideouts, tiny writing cabins, sewing studios—all it takes is a hobby (or job) and some extra green space and you’ve got yourself the makings of a proper “shoffice,” an eye roll-worthy portmanteau that refers to rather practical shed-like offices.

This impressive backyard shed in Seattle is further proof of the trend. Architects at Board & Vellum designed the compact space as a reading retreat for homeowners who wanted a dedicated space for relaxing. Think of it like a reading nook, only in the yard, bigger, and with plumbing.

Andrew Giammarco Photography courtesy of Board & Vellum

The shed welcomes visitors with an all-glass enclosure that faces the patio and fire pit. This micro sunroom flows into a tiny living space whose walls are flanked with bookshelves and a daybed for stretching out with a good novel.

Andrew Giammarco Photography courtesy of Board & Vellum

Andrew Giammarco Photography courtesy of Board & Vellum

The architects bill the stylish shed as a reading retreat, but it’s almost a full-fledged tiny home thanks to the full bathroom. There’s no kitchen, but there is a ladder that leads to a lofted bed in case you get sleepy from all that reading.

Andrew Giammarco Photography courtesy of Board & Vellum