From Burlington Backyard to Bright Ideas: Emily’s DIY Office Journey

Meet Emily from Burlington. As a journalist, her days are filled with interviews, writing deadlines, and the constant hum of ideas. She and her partner have a beautiful home downtown, but something was missing—a quiet, dedicated space where Emily could brainstorm, process, and execute her best work.

Instead of heading to crowded coffee shops or trying to drown out the noise of daily life inside her home, Emily dreamed of having a backyard office. The only problem? She had never tackled a project like this before.

The First Step into the Unknown

When Emily began her journey, the construction world was foreign to her. She didn’t know where to start, but she wasn’t about to let that stop her. With perseverance and grit, she dove into research, connected with family members for advice, and asked Livingston Farm questions along the way.

Her choice? A Lean-To Studio building from Livingston Farm—a versatile structure that could be tailored into her own modern workspace.

Designing a Think Tank

Emily envisioned a space that was bright, breezy, and comfortable. Step by step, piece by piece, she brought her vision to life:

Mini-split system to keep the space cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Bright white walls that reflect light and keep her focused.

Warm wood-tone floors that balance modern comfort with natural peace.

The result is a clean, calming environment that feels both functional and inspiring. Just a few steps from her back door, Emily now has her very own think tank—a getaway where the endless to-do lists and house chores can wait while her best ideas come to life.

Falling in Love with the Process

When asked about her DIY adventure, Emily didn’t hesitate:

“I loved the entire process and I loved it so much that if Livingston Farm has other clients in the future who want to ask someone questions, I would love to help them.”

Her project not only gave her a place to create but also sparked a newfound passion for the building process itself. She even hinted at wanting another structure someday—though her partner might need some convincing.

Inspiration for Others

Emily’s story is proof that with a little determination and the right support, anyone can transform their outdoor space into something truly special. Her backyard office isn’t just a building; it’s a sanctuary for creativity, a space for growth, and a reminder that stepping into the unknown often leads to the most rewarding experiences.

If you’ve been dreaming of a workspace, studio, or retreat of your own, Emily’s journey is an inspiration to get started. Like she discovered, the hardest part is simply taking the first step.