Sometimes you don't need more room inside your home. You just need a little space of your own.
For Jenny, that space is a cedar backyard studio. What started as a practical way to add room has become her creative retreat, the place she goes to paint, make things and simply switch off.
"I absolutely love my studio. It's my 'happy place' where I go to be creative, chill out and just get a little bit of peace and quiet."
A backyard studio instead of a home extension
Jenny's studio started with a simple need: more space, without the cost and disruption of extending the house.
Rather than building onto the home, she made better use of the backyard with a dedicated garden studio for her creative work. It gave her the extra room she was after while leaving the house itself untouched.
With its warm Western Red Cedar cladding, classic gabled roof and generous windows, the studio looks like it has always belonged in the garden.
Why Jenny chose a Stilla cedar studio
Quality was a major consideration from the start.
"The quality of the Stilla product was a huge draw card for us and having the backing of a well-established company."
That combination of a premium product and an Australian family-owned business, building in Brisbane since 1984, gave Jenny confidence from day one. From meeting our team at the Home Show through to construction and follow-up after completion, we were there to guide her through every step.
"They were super friendly and were happy to show us what they were doing through the process."
Professional installation, start to finish
A great studio isn't just about the finished building. The installation experience matters too.
"The installers arranged by Stilla were fantastic. They were incredibly experienced, putting the studio together in no time."
Our certified installers were friendly, approachable and happy to explain each stage of the build. The result: less stress, less guesswork and a finished studio ready to enjoy. See how ordering and installation works.
A bright yellow art studio full of personality
Inside, Jenny's studio is anything but ordinary. Plants, artwork and clever storage give the room a warm, personal feel.
"Painting the walls bright yellow was questioned by some but I love it."
We can see why. The space feels joyful, energetic and completely her own.
Art studio ideas to borrow from Jenny
- Go bold with colour. A bright wall colour sets the mood for creative work.
- Bring the garden in. Indoor plants soften the space and connect it to the backyard.
- Display your work. Hang artwork to make the studio feel personal and inspiring.
- Plan storage early. Shelving and containers keep work surfaces clear in a smaller footprint.
A backyard studio that grows with your household
One of the best things about a backyard studio is that its purpose can change over time. Right now, Jenny's is a creative haven. In future, it could be something else entirely.
"Our studio is small but packs a lot in and in the future it could be a home office, teenagers' retreat, yoga room, anything at all really."
That flexibility was a big part of the appeal. Instead of committing to a single-purpose room, the studio can evolve as the household does, whether that's a home office, a teenage retreat, a home gym or a she shed.
Planning your own backyard studio? Jenny's advice
Jenny's advice is refreshingly simple:
"Look at all the options available, lay out the space in your backyard and then go for it."
Before you choose, it helps to:
- Measure your backyard and mark out where the studio will sit.
- Think about how you'll use it now, and how that might change.
- Check your state's council approval limits for your preferred size.
- Visit a Stilla display in Narangba QLD or Alexandria NSW to see the cedar and finishes in person.
Even a smaller studio can make a big difference to how you use your home.
A little space, a lot of possibilities
From the outside, Jenny's Stilla studio is a beautiful addition to the garden. Inside, it's something far more personal: a place to create, unwind and enjoy some peace and quiet. And her experience with Stilla has been just as positive as the finished result.
"The Stilla team were so helpful every step of the way. From our initial meeting at the Home Show right through the construction stage and following up with us after completion. We're super happy."
A backyard studio doesn't have to be just another room. It can be your creative space, home office, retreat, yoga room or simply your own happy place.
Ready to find yours? Explore Designer Studios, or visit a display near you.
