Garage Conversion Ideas

Lisa Cooper

BY Lisa Cooper

Published: 13 June 2023 Updated: 02 October 2024

Benefits of garage conversions

Whether you opt for a complete conversion involving building regulations, planning permission, electricians, builders etc or simply keep the interior the same and just use it for something other than your car to live in, there’s a whole list of benefits, from minor to major. But it's worth remembering that a garage conversion cost is likely to be less expensive than building an extension or adding a new room. The basic structure of the garage is already in place, reducing the need for extensive construction work. This can save you money on materials, labour, and be easier to deal with in regards to planning permissions and building regulations too, making it a budget-friendly option for expanding your living space.

Interior of an empty garage with the door open, looking out onto the driveway.

Working from home

As hybrid work has become more standard, a home office is essential for maintaining productivity. Converting your garage into a home office offers a separate space to focus on your work without distractions from other areas of the house – or its inhabitants. Add a desk, ergonomic chair, storage cabinets, and ample lighting to create a comfortable and efficient workspace. With a dedicated home office, you can achieve a better work-life balance and improve your overall efficiency.

A home office with wooden floor, floor to ceiling white shelving with a mix of empty shelves and books, stationary and plants.

Creative sanctuary

Whether your medium is oils, watercolour, airbrushing or something else, painting can be a messy business and no matter how careful you are there’s likely to be evidence of your creative inspiration in areas other than your canvas. That’s why repurposing a garage for an art studio is a great idea – that concrete floor will happily deal with any spills, creating its own artistic canvas.

An artists studio with easeal and canvas, desk and chair and stool with a ceramic vase still life setting.

Chic guest suite

Hosting friends and family becomes a breeze with a beautifully designed guest suite. Include a comfortable bed, a compact bathroom, a small kitchenette or tea and coffee making facilities, and cosy touches such as throws and plenty cushions to offer your guests all the comforts of home. Personal touches like stylish decor and soft lighting can make the space welcoming and elegant.

Set of cusions stacked on top of each other, olive green velvet, pale lilac, aquamarine velvet, salmon and marine blue textured.

Gym

Skip the gym membership and convert your garage into a state-of-the-art home gym. Equip it with your favourite workout machines, free weights, and yoga mats. Large mirrors, ample ventilation, and a sound system can enhance your workout experience.

A home gym with bench pressc, barbells and weights.

Den

A den is an excellent additional living space for relaxation and entertainment. With comfortable seating, a television, game consoles, and a mini-fridge you can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere for unwinding after a long day, hosting game nights with friends and family, or even as a special cinema-style escape.

Home den with sofas and tv entertainment systems, speakers, shelving for consoles.

Craft room

For those who enjoy crafts such as sewing, knitting, macramé, or paper-based crafts, a garage turned craft room provides an organised and inspiring environment. Install shelves, cabinets, and workstations to accommodate your supplies and equipment. The spaciousness of a garage allows you to work on multiple projects simultaneously without having to clear the decks and you can create a peaceful sanctuary away from distractions to focus on your creations.

Sewing room with shelves of ribbons, mannequin with a salmon dress, threads and sewing paraphenalia on table.

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