how to build a shop that’s more than just storage

By Forged Built- Trusted Contractor in Oregon

When most people think of a “shop”, they picture a place to park tools, stash seasonal items, or store equipment. But at Forged Built, we believe your shop can be so much more than just a glorified storage unit. With the right design, layout, and construction approach, your shop can become a functional, personalized space that adds real value to your property and your lifestyle.

Here is how to build a shop that goes beyond basic storage- and how Forged Built can help you bring that vision to life.

DEFINE ITS PURPOSE (BEFORE WE POUR CONCRETE)

The key to building a truly functional shop is planning around it’s purpose. Will it be a hobby space? A home for your business? A man cave? A place to restore classic cars or fabricate metal? Whatever your goal, we tailor every build to fit your needs.

Popular Multi-Use Shop Ideas:

  • Mechanic’s workshop with lifts and grease pits

  • Woodworking studio with dust collection systems

  • Small engine or auto repair business

  • Home gym or wellness space

  • Hunting/fishing gear room

  • Artist or crafting studio

  • She-shed or retreat space

  • Office with built-in shop success

Forged Build Tip: Tell us how you will use your shop day-to-day. W will make sure the layout, power supply, success points, and insulation align with that vision.

DESIGN FOR FUNCTIONALITY AND COMFORT

Whether you are wrenching on vehicles or creating your dream man cave, comfort and workflow matter. Your shop should be easy to move through, well-lit, and designed with longevity in mind.

Key features to consider:

  • Overhead doors with enough clearance for vehicle or equipment

  • Separate entry doors for office or private access

  • Insulation & climate control for year round use

  • Concrete slab thickness based on weight of tools or vehicles

  • Drainage and floor slope if you are washing down the inside

  • Strategic outlets and lighting for tool zones and workbenches

  • Plumbing rough-ins for a future sink or bathroom

PLAN FOR POWER, TOOLS & TECH

One mistake often seen is underestimating electrical needs.

Whether you are welding, running a compressor, or just want outlets in all the right places- Forged Built ensures your shop is wired for the future.

Our Standard Power Considerations:

  • 200-amp service panels (or higher for large shops)

  • 220v outlets for welders, and RV’s

  • Conduit to allow for future wiring upgrades

  • Smart home tech options (security, lighting, heating)

Need compressed air lines, exhaust fans, or ethernet? We build it all from the start.

THINK YEAR-ROUND USABILITY

In Oregon, weather is always part of the equation. If you are going to use your shop more than a few months a year, insulation and HVAC are worth every penny.

Popular Options for Comfort:

  • Spray foam insulation for energy efficiency

  • Propane heaters or mini-split HVAC systems

  • Ceiling fans and ridge vents for circulation

  • Wood-burning stoves for rural shops

  • Insulated garage door and double-pane windows

MAKE IT LOOK GOOD, TOO

Gone are the days of bland metal boxes. Today’s custom shops can match your home’s design or stand alone as a modern rustic structure.

Exterior Upgrades to Consider:

  • Board and batten siding

  • Timber-frame scents or overhangs

  • Covered lean-to for outdoor storage or sitting space

  • Cupolas, lighting and custom trim work

At Forged Built, we believe your shop should reflect your personality and add curb appeal- not just utility.

Why Forged Built is the Right Parter:

Building a quality shop is more than putting up four walls and a slab- it’s about creating a space that is ready for life, work, and passion projects. At Forged Built, we bring years of experience across Oregon building custom garages, shops, and outbuildings designed for real-world use.

From grading your land to pouring a reinforced slab, installing high-quality overheads doors, wiring your workspace, or building in cozy finishes- we do it all, the right way.

Are You Ready to Build More Than Just Storage?

What every you are dreaming of on your property Forged Built can bring it to life! Contact us today for a free estimate and lets start planning!

Call or Text (971) 486-6587

Levi@forgedbuilt.com

Marketingteam@forgedbuild.com

We also have Facebook, Tik-Tok and Instagram

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