top of page
Search

Creating Space for RV Living in Tacoma: Why a Custom Office Shed Is the Perfect Addition

  • Writer: Greg Power
    Greg Power
  • Sep 27
  • 5 min read

Preparing the Space: Fence Removal, Entry Expansion, and a New Enclosure


For Tacoma homeowners preparing their property for full-time RV living and a custom office shed, the first stage is all about creating a functional and secure space. At Kraken Construction Co, we began this project by removing the old, worn fence that limited access and didn’t provide the strength or privacy the homeowners needed. To accommodate the RV and future outbuilding, we then widened the entryway, making it easier to bring in larger vehicles and equipment without hassle.




Once the space was opened up, our team built a brand-new, durable fence designed to enclose the area, ensuring both privacy and security for the RV and the upcoming custom office shed build. This not only improved the property’s overall layout but also set the foundation for the next stages of construction — transforming the yard into a space ready for comfortable RV living with a functional backyard outbuilding.


Building the Foundation: Concrete Slabs for the Office Shed and RV Pad


The next phase focused on creating a strong, lasting foundation. For Tacoma homeowners transitioning to full-time RV living and adding a custom office shed, durable concrete work is essential.


Our crew poured and finished two separate concrete slabs — one dedicated to the new office shed and another sized perfectly for the RV pad. This approach not only provides a stable surface for the RV but also ensures the office shed will sit on a solid, level base built to last for decades.



By investing in quality concrete work at this stage, the homeowners now have a versatile and low-maintenance setup. The new slabs create a seamless connection between the RV and office shed, turning the backyard into a functional living and working space designed for both comfort and efficiency.


Connecting the Essentials: Water, Power, Internet, and Septic


With the concrete slabs in place for both the RV pad and the office shed, the next phase was ensuring the space had all the essential utilities needed for full-time living and working. For Tacoma homeowners creating a property that supports RV life and a custom backyard outbuilding, this step is critical.


Our team ran underground water and electrical lines, providing reliable connections that will power both the RV and the office shed. We also integrated internet cabling, ensuring the office shed will be fully connected for remote work, streaming, or day-to-day digital needs. Finally, we tied the new systems into the property’s existing septic setup, giving the RV and office shed the convenience of on-site waste management without compromising efficiency or safety.



This utility stage transforms the property from simply having a structure to offering a complete, functional living solution — one that blends the freedom of RV living with the comfort and practicality of a permanent home office and outbuilding.


Framing, Insulation, and Electrical: Building with Home-Like Quality


With the site utilities complete, the next stage was bringing the custom office shed to life through framing, insulation, and electrical. Unlike a typical outbuilding, this structure was built with home-like qualities, ensuring comfort, efficiency, and long-lasting durability for Tacoma homeowners balancing full-time RV living with the need for a functional workspace.


We began with a sealed and treated bottom plate fastened securely with J-bolts, paired with treated bottom sills for superior protection against moisture. Before insulation, every air gap was closed with foam seal and caulked plates, creating a tight thermal envelope. To ensure long-term weather resistance, all windows and doors were properly flashed, protecting the structure from Tacoma’s heavy rain and damp winters.


When it came to the roof, we didn’t cut corners. We installed 35-year shingles complete with ice and water shield — a detail that might be considered “overkill” for a small outbuilding. But at Kraken Construction Co, we believe in using the same higher-quality materials we would for a full-size home. The result is a structure that not only looks and feels like a home, but is also built to last for decades.



After the structure was framed and sealed, we added high-performance insulation for year-round comfort and ran electrical wiring for outlets, lighting, and future technology needs. Together, these steps created a shed that is far more than a backyard outbuilding — it’s a durable, energy-efficient, and livable space designed with the same attention to detail as a custom home.


Finishing Touches: Premium Details That Make the Difference


With the structure framed, sealed, insulated, and wired, the final stage was transforming the shell into a fully finished, move-in ready office shed. For Tacoma homeowners building a space to complement full-time RV living, this is where functionality meets comfort and style.


We then moved on to drywall installation and finishing, giving the walls a clean, polished look. Premium trim, doors, and window casings followed, elevating the shed beyond a typical outbuilding. Electrical outlets and fixtures were carefully placed for convenience and efficiency, while modern lighting brought warmth and functionality to the space.


Before installing flooring, we took an extra step to ensure a perfectly level surface by pouring leveling cement over the concrete pad. This created a smooth, even base and eliminated imperfections that could affect the final flooring. While some builders might skip this step, we believe that precision at this stage guarantees both durability and a flawless finish.



Finally, we installed durable, high-quality flooring, chosen to withstand daily use while providing a comfortable, home-like feel. Every seam and surface was treated with the same attention to detail we’d give a full residential remodel. Even though some of these steps might be considered “overbuilt” for a shed, at Kraken Construction Co we prefer to use higher-quality methods and materials so the structures we build last for decades.


By taking these extra steps, this office shed became much more than just a backyard building — it’s a long-term investment in comfort, quality, and value for Tacoma homeowners.


Bringing Your RV Living Vision to Life


At Kraken Construction Co, we believe every project should reflect the homeowner’s vision and lifestyle. Whether it’s creating a functional RV pad, designing a custom office shed, or building a complete backyard setup, we take pride in working side by side with our clients. From fine-tuning the concept to executing every detail, our goal is to deliver a space that feels both practical and personal.


If you’re a Tacoma homeowner considering full-time RV living or looking to add a custom outbuilding to your property, we’d love to help you bring your dream to reality. Have questions about our process? Curious about what a project like this might look like on your property? We’re here to guide you every step of the way.


Contact Kraken Construction Co today for a free estimate — and let’s start building a space that’s built strong, built smart, and built for you.

 
 
 
bottom of page