Affordable, long-lasting, and unique, Quonset hut homes are gaining appeal among eco-conscious and do-it-yourselfers. Despite their humble beginnings as drab, drafty military barracks, these structures may give first-rate comfort when outfitted with contemporary conveniences and artistically adorned. You can find quonsets for sale or rent in rural areas where building codes don't require strict adherence to fire safety standards. The typical quonset is shaped like a giant hoop, with the walls and roof forming the sides of the structure. The interiors are typically divided into several small rooms by partition walls that span the floor to ceiling height of the hut. The most expensive type of quonset home, called "Ranches", have two floors with a central hallway connecting them. Other options include "Lodges" with only one floor or "Cabins" which are completely separate units. All types of quonsets can be bought new or used, although they are most common as rental properties due to their affordability. Quonset huts were originally designed to protect soldiers from the elements on post sites around the world. However, today's homeowners find many other uses for these buildings. They are ideal for playhouses and small houses for kids' toys or pets, and can also be used as offices, storage facilities, and more. If you want to add some character to your yard, consider building one or more quonsets as garden sheds.