Building a shop-kinda long, sorry

My requirements are simple, would like something that I can (reasonably) heat in the winter and keep cool in the summer, yet have enough space for two projects in the shop at one time. I would also like to have an area to use for some wood working (table saw, router table, etc). My job requires me to travel extensively so I only get to work in the shop about six to eight days a month and do it for relaxation mostly.

I have eight and half acres that are mostly wooded and rolling (steep in areas-10 feet wide and 8 miles deep if you get my meaning) so site selection is becoming an issue. I currently have Farmalls (H & 400) with the H being the working tractor. Also have a `53 Chevy ¾ ton that operates well but does need to be restored. Plan on acquiring a JD H & G in the future and would like to get a 1-1/2 ton antique truck to restore. This equipment need not be stored inside but would rather build a lean-to on the building to use as a shelter.

I am currently considering a 28 x 36 Gambrel building with the doors in the center instead of on the gable ends. Appearance is a factor as the project must get pass my wife.

Any thoughts, ideas, “wish I would have done it this ways,” are greatly appreciated.

Again, thanks for you responses and my you all enjoy a happy and prosperous new year.

We just built one this summer and I love it.

34 x 64 Wood Frame with metal siding inside and out including Ceiling which has 13-1/2 feet inside clearance
5" concrete slab, 8 double pane windows (4 per side)
12 x 16 insulated overhead door with an opener (no shoveling snow to open the door)
R-19 insualtion in the walls and 6" blown in insulation in the attic.
Insulated walk in door with double pane window 2 fans and 2 - 50,000 btu propane radiant heaters hung from the ceiling. 2 thermostats, one set about 5 degrees cooler than the other. Only time the second one kicks on is if the door is left open for some reason.
Anywhere that I'm standing and near a wall, I'm within 5 feet of an electrical outlet.
Vent on the cap of the roof with a vapor barrier. Total price including heat and electrical... Less than $40,000

I would entertain the idea that if you are building a "shop", maybe you should build it large enough so that the building could be used as a small residence, even if you had to divide the property later.

Secondly, what I did was stick built, composite shingle roof, insulation to the hilt, single 8 foot high door, outlets every 6 feet all around the perimeter, and radiant heating in the slab. I have the heater for the radiant heat in the basement of the house, as I didn't want to have a flame in the shop due to combustibles out there. The only things I would have done differently would be to add a second large door, and made the shop larger, as I'm out of room AGAIN!!!!!

Sounds like the two of us are looking to do something on simular situations. I need/want a shed to tinker in and for some storage. She claims it needs to be for storage. The plan as of right now, is for a 20' x 25' with 9' walls and a 1' x 12' pitch roof. Due to the location and city codes this is as big as I can get in the backyard. Still trying to decide the doors and a few other things prior to having it built. Trying to decide between a 10' or 12' overhead door. Plan on a 6' roll up door on the side going into the back yard for easier access. Also it will have a standard walk in door. Plan to have it insulated. Am told that standard is 3" on sides and 6" in ceiling/roof. Please let me know how you decide to lay out your shed. I would like to have any and all inputs to use for mine that I can get.

What type of electrical would you suggest putting into the building? I am thinking that a 100 amp would be sufficient, but am thinking of going with 200 amp. Hope to have an arc welder and air compressor along with a drill press and possibly a table saw. Although none of these would be operating most likely at the same time, I have seen it when one of them is running the lights dim and there is a serious draw on the amount of power.