Shop Buildings for Hobbyists: What to Include

As someone who’s designed and built countless shop buildings across Spokane and the Inland Northwest, I know how exciting it can be to create a space that’s 100% yours. And if you’re a hobbyist—whether you love woodworking, restoring classic cars, metalworking, or just need a place to spread out your creative projects—your shop building is more than just four walls. It’s your personal workshop sanctuary.

At Stimson Contracting, we specialize in designing shop buildings that are functional, efficient, and tailored to how you work. In this article, I’ll walk you through the must-have features hobbyists should include in their shop buildings so you can plan your dream space the right way.

Table of Contents

1. Flexible Layouts for Your Hobby

2. Workbenches and Storage Solutions

3. Lighting That Works as Hard as You Do

4. Power and Electrical Access

5. Climate Control for Year-Round Comfort

6. Insulation and Soundproofing

7. Durable Flooring Options

8. Ventilation and Dust Control

9. Safety and Security Features

10. Conclusion: Build It Right, Enjoy It Forever

1. Flexible Layouts for Your Hobby

Start with a layout that fits your specific hobby. Woodworkers often need large open spaces for lumber storage and big tools, while auto enthusiasts need bays, lifts, and wide access doors. We recommend:

• Open floor plans with room to grow

• Multiple work zones for different tasks

• Clear sightlines and clutter-free pathways

2. Workbenches and Storage Solutions

Your shop will only be as organized as your storage. We often build:

• Heavy-duty built-in workbenches

• Overhead shelving or mezzanines

• Tool chests, pegboards, and custom cabinetry

Everything should have a dedicated place so your projects stay on track.

3. Lighting That Works as Hard as You Do

Good lighting is critical for safety and precision. We recommend:

• LED overhead lights with high lumens

• Task lighting over benches

• Natural light from windows or skylights

This makes a huge difference in how enjoyable your shop is to work in.

4. Power and Electrical Access

Hobbyist shops often need more than a few outlets. Plan for:

• 200-amp panels or 220V circuits for power-hungry tools

• Outlets every 6–8 feet

• Ceiling drops for tools and extension cords

Future-proof your shop so you’re never short on power.

5. Climate Control for Year-Round Comfort

Spokane’s winters and summers can be extreme. We recommend:

• Mini-split heat pumps for efficient heating and cooling

• Radiant floor heating if you’re pouring a slab

• Ceiling fans and proper airflow

This ensures you can enjoy your shop no matter the season.

6. Insulation and Soundproofing

Insulation isn’t just for comfort—it reduces noise and energy bills. We use:

• Spray foam or batt insulation in walls and roof

• Sound-dampening materials between hobby zones

• Weatherstripping for doors and windows

Your neighbors will appreciate the noise control, too.

7. Durable Flooring Options

Your floor takes a beating in a hobby shop. Popular choices include:

• Sealed concrete with epoxy finish

• Rubber mats in work zones

• Stained concrete for a stylish, low-maintenance option

Choose a surface that’s easy to clean and built to last.

8. Ventilation and Dust Control

Dust, fumes, and chemicals require proper ventilation. We design for:

• Exhaust fans and air filtration systems

• Cross-ventilation with windows or vents

• Dust collection systems for woodworking

This keeps the air cleaner and healthier for you and your projects.

9. Safety and Security Features

Hobbyists invest a lot in their tools and materials. Consider:

• Lockable doors and windows

• Security systems or cameras

• Fire extinguishers and proper exits

• First-aid stations and clear safety signage

Your shop should be safe for you and secure when you’re not around.

10. Conclusion: Build It Right, Enjoy It Forever

A hobbyist’s shop is more than just a place to work—it’s a space that inspires creativity, supports productivity, and grows with you. By including the right features up front, you’ll enjoy your shop for decades without constant upgrades or frustrations.

At Stimson Contracting, we help Spokane-area hobbyists design shop buildings that fit their hobbies, budgets, and properties perfectly. If you’re ready to start planning your ideal shop, let’s make it happen.