Not Ugly Outdoor Storage Options (Deck Boxes, Sheds, Benches, And More!)

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been typing away about sprucing up our outdoor spaces. And if you’ve ever had an outdoor space (my current apartment was my first) then you know the elements are no joke and that’s coming ... The post Not Ugly Outdoor Storage Options (Deck Boxes, Sheds, Benches, And More!) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Apr 4, 2025 - 10:36
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Not Ugly Outdoor Storage Options (Deck Boxes, Sheds, Benches, And More!)

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been typing away about sprucing up our outdoor spaces. And if you’ve ever had an outdoor space (my current apartment was my first) then you know the elements are no joke and that’s coming from someone living in southern California where the “elements” are pretty mild. So what’s the solution? Well, a storage piece is a great place to start. Of course, you need to know what will work best for you. Someone like me, living in southern California will likely have different needs than someone living in Minnesota. I’ve rounded up a bunch of really great options in all different kinds of styles so if you’ve been looking for a not ugly storage solution then look no further.

1. Extra Large Plastic Vertical Shed | 2. Durable Resin Plastic Storage Shed | 3. Waterproof Outdoor Resin Tool Shed

Let’s start strong with some sturdy, sleek options. To start, #1 is a durable all-weather plastic shed that is a great size and claims to be able to protect what’s kept inside safe all year long. The style is great too. #2 is the simplest one in style but fear not because this cutie is made of 100% recycled materials, which is a weather-resistant resin that prevents rusting, peeling, fading, and denting. Then #3 is waterproof and has that modern farm vibe, doesn’t it? Now for these and the sheds below, I would also probably think about airtight plastic containers for added protection if you live in tougher climates.

1. Indio Metal Storage Trunk | 2. 30 Gallons Resin Lockable Deck Box | 3. Waterproof 100 Gal. Galvanized Steel Deck Box Lockable Storage

These are great for those who either have smaller spaces or simply don’t need as much storage. These are great for your pillows, towels, etc! #1 is made of rustproof aluminum slats and is so pretty that you could easily use it as a decor piece/extra seating! I’d say this would be best for daily use during the warmer months but if you live in a really wet/snowy climate, you’d likely want to store those cushions away in an airtight container in your garage or shed. #2 is a great, durable, and affordable deck box that’s also lockable! But if you’re looking for a serious outdoor chest then look no further than #3. It’s large, made of steel, and has a slight slope design to keep out water and critters.

1. Durable Resin Outdoor Storage Shed | 2. Plastic Storage Shed

Ok, this is the last of the all-dark options, but if you want a real shed that’s cool and modern (and affordable) here you go! Both of these claim to be super durable and have flooring (I guess that’s not always included in sheds). It’s also really nice to have windows and ventilation so you can easily see and you won’t have to think about things getting too musty since there can be airflow. Oh, and #2 also comes in white:)

1. 4 ft. W D Outdoor Storage Wooden Shed | 2. Dark Gray Solid Wood Storage Shed | 3. Solid Wood Storage Shed

If super modern isn’t your aesthetic, then these sheds might be for you:) I can’t get over how cute #1 is. It almost looks like a playhouse I dreamed up in my head. Since it’s made of real wood I strongly recommend plastic containers for things like cushions. But man would I smile every time I got a peek of it. #2 is also so sweet and comes in a mint green and natural. Then what I really like about #3, aside from the design, are the double doors which make it really easy it see what you have and have easy access (this one also has two other color options) Oh, and all three have waterproof roofs!

1. Solid Wood Lean-To Tool Shed | 2. Metal Frame Outdoor Storage Shed

Both of these are water and UV-resistant! Perfect for the side of the house and will give you a ton of storage. Simple and classic and you can’t go wrong:)

design by jess bunge | styled by emily bowser | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: jess’ communal patio reveal

I actually found this wood lattice box in the photo above at a flea market and the top is removable. It’s a perfect place to put the furniture covers when we don’t need them.

1. Teak Storage Chest | 2. Solid Wood Teak Patio Storage Box | 3. Summerton Teak Solid Wood Deck Box

Teak is obviously a great outdoor wood so I wanted to give a few good options if you love the look. Now these are great storage pieces for when the weather is nice and you want a place to quickly store outdoor items either daily or fairly frequently when not using. What’s also great about these is that they are all pretty furniture pieces too! #1 not only comes in two sizes (that’s the larger one) but it’s also hand-built from sustainably harvested teak wood. Then #3 actually comes with a stitched PE bag for added protection.

1. Huntington Pool Storage Trunk | 2. Outdoor Storage Chest with Handles | 3. Navio Castered Storage Cube

I clearly had to throw in some weather-proof rattan. Now, for us “mild weather” dwellers, I feel that these could stay out most, if not all year long and be fine since they are weather-resistant/made to be outside. But if you live in harsher conditions, I would think covering or storing them in a shed or garage would help keep them looking great and last longer. I love them all and think they would be such a cute addition to any outdoor setup!

1. Mondo Outdoor Storage Box with Lid | 2. Volume Outdoor Square Storage Side Table | 3. GRILLSKÄR

If you have a modern style then #1 is a perfect small storage option. It’s super sleek and comes in eight other colors! Then man is #2 beautiful. It’s an ideal side table (multifunctional) but for a much smaller space, I think it could easily work as a coffee table (they do also have a coffee table size in case you were wondering). Then #3 is a great affordable durable piece that can also be an extra seat if needed!

1. Beige Outdoor Storage Plastic Resin Shed | 2. Metal Lean-To Storage Shed

Surprise! Light-toned options. #1 is a super durable sweet medium to large-size shed that I think style-wise is so versatile. Oh, and that sloped roof is going to prevent water or snow from sitting on top. #2 is a great and big shed (10′ long!) that’s wonderfully simple. FYI it does not come with a floor so I might skip it if you or someone in your home isn’t handy.

1. Foreverspring Outdoor Bench | 2. Water Resistant Resin Lockable Deck Box

When I saw the design of #1 I just really loved it. It’s a perfect two-fer – furniture and storage + modern and classic. Plus, it holds up to 70 gallons and is lockable. Then #2 holds nearly double the size at 121 gallons. It’s also weather-resistant, lockable, has a cushioned closing (no fingers getting slammed), and comes in four other colors.

1. 68″ Console Table with Storage | 2. Slider Storage Chest

Then finally I wanted to add a little more color to this post and what color is better for the outdoors than a beautiful dark green? #1 is from the same brand that Emily is using for her outdoor stools she talked about yesterday so you know it’s extremely durable (and likely why it’s pretty pricy). However, it has 135-gallon interior storage and can hold up to 200 lbs of exterior weight. Oh, and it comes in 6 other colors. Then #2 (also pricey, sorry!) is a modern beauty. But she’s not just pretty. This chest has a watertight lid with a slow-close, fade-resistant, and is made in the USA from recycled materials. If you have the budget it’s such a good one.

Alright folks, as always I hope that was helpful and you are feeling even more prepared for the warm weather. Also don’t forget that outdoor furniture covers are your friend! Outdoor spaces do require more attention than indoor ones but man are they amazing to have if you are lucky enough to have one.

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: Our Outdoor Living Room + Firepit Area Is The Sleeper Hit Of Our 2024 Summer

The post Not Ugly Outdoor Storage Options (Deck Boxes, Sheds, Benches, And More!) appeared first on Emily Henderson.