Transform the outside of your into a serene and stylish outdoor living space that reflects your personal style. Begin by defining the purpose of your space – whether it’s for dining, relaxation, or entertaining guests. Aside from improving your garden and creating an outdoor living space, you should think about any external buildings that you have, too. The garage is the most common of these and, for a lot of us, it can easily become disused storage. How do you make the best use of it?
Before transforming your garage, consider how you want to use the space. Whether you envision it as a home office, gym, or workshop, defining the purpose will guide your renovation decisions. Each use requires different modifications, so planning ahead ensures that the space is designed to meet your specific needs. Assess your requirements and envision how the space will function to make informed decisions about the necessary upgrades and furnishings.
Clearing out your garage is the first step towards its transformation. Remove all existing clutter and items that are no longer needed. Using a skip hire service can facilitate the disposal of large or unwanted items efficiently. Once the garage is empty, you will have a clean slate to work with, making it easier to plan and implement your renovation ideas. This process also helps in assessing the condition of the space and identifying any structural changes needed.
To create a functional and comfortable space, complete essential finishing touches. This includes sealing any cracks or gaps in the walls and floors to ensure a weather-tight environment. Adding utilities such as electrical outlets, lighting, and heating or cooling systems will make the garage more usable year-round. Proper insulation and ventilation are also crucial for maintaining a comfortable temperature and preventing moisture issues.
Selecting appropriate flooring and wall finishes is key to enhancing the functionality and appearance of your garage. Durable flooring options such as epoxy coatings or interlocking tiles are ideal for high-traffic areas and easy maintenance. For walls, consider installing drywall or panelling to create a polished look and improve insulation. The right flooring and walls not only contribute to the overall aesthetics but also ensure that the space is practical and comfortable for its intended use.
Furnishing your newly renovated garage should align with its intended use. For an office, add a desk, ergonomic chair, and storage solutions. If it’s a gym, include exercise equipment and mirrors. For a workshop, invest in workbenches, tool storage, and shelving. Purposeful furnishing ensures that the space is functional and supports its designated activities. By choosing the right furniture and equipment, you can maximize the utility and enjoyment of your garage, making it a valuable extension of your home.
The tips above can help you ensure that you turn your garage into something truly useful and something that really elevates how you live at home. However, you have to think about what role, exactly, you want it to play.
Photos – Feature Nickis Plate
Fancy a little refresh? Now that Spring has arrived and Summer is just around the corner, we're sharing our top tips to brightening up your home this season.
Bringing curved furniture, lighting, and decor into your home is a trend that can effortlessly bring character into a home; from daring and playful to natural and calm.
If they’re good enough for home critics’, they’re good enough for us. Our favourite places to stay in the UK this summer with Plum Guide.
