Mike Robinson, an engineer from Plumstead in south London, has won Shed of the Year for his project 'The Tiny Workshop', a black ash garden shed that doubles as tool storage and a peaceful retreat. The structure won the Workshop/Studio category and earned £1,000 in prize money, with Cuprinol judges calling it ingenious and unlike anything seen before in the competition's history.
It features dual opening doors to shield against rain and an overhanging green roof that stores garden tools, illustrating a compact space-saving approach. Robinson said the design grew from a need for efficient storage in a small garden: 'Off-the-shelf options would have taken up too much room, so we went with a DIY design and build. I think The Tiny Workshop has worked a treat.'
Other participants noted the contrast with past winners. Alex Dodman, a 2023 Shed of the Year finalist, told the Daily Mail that while the colors aren't as eye-catching as some winners, the craftsmanship is 'seriously impressive' and that Robinson built it himself. Dodman added that the competition has sometimes prioritized appearance over builders' own work, a sentiment he says comes from observing winners since 2016.
Cuprinol's Marianne Shillingford, the company's Creative and Colour Expert, said the winner 'takes the competition back to its roots' by championing simple, effective design. Founder and head judge Andrew Wilcox also praised the Tiny Workshop, saying it demonstrates what can be achieved in even the smallest spaces when money is tight.
Cuprinol noted Robinson's personal flair through details such as 3D-printed brackets for old spanner handles, underscoring a hands-on, self-built approach.
Last year's winner was Wayne Dawber of Crewe, whose 'Wrinkly, Rusty And Retro' shed made from used materials drew public praise for its vintage signage and murals. Dawber said he scavenged items from skips, junk shops, and farms to craft the project, calling it 'industrial, ghost-town chic.'