A shed is a building which encloses raw space, either undivided or divided by simple partitions. It usually lacks the fully developed degree of construction found in a normal building. They are normally used for storage, parking, or for housing animals. Sheds are often built of wood, plywood, or sheet metal without insulation.

The interior remains raw space, with no division or only simple partitions. Storage or animal housing can occur without a fully developed arrangement of finished rooms.

Wood and sheet metal are common materials, and insulation is often absent. Neither a particular material nor the complete absence of partitions is required.