What is a Garage Conversion?
A large or small garage conversion is essentially a renovation project that transforms your house’s existing car garage into a usable living space. This can be done for various reasons, such as creating more bedrooms, a small home office, a family room, or even a guest suite. Here are some best small garage conversion ideas you can use for home renovation.
With housing costs rising and many families needing more space, converting an unused garage can be an affordable way to add valuable square footage to your home without the major expense of an addition. Converting your existing car garage offers a number of benefits.
First, you gain a brand new room to enjoy without having to move to another area. This extra space can be modified into whatever you need – a cozy family room, luxurious master suite, or spacious home gym and so on.
Additionally, converting your garage can significantly increase your home’s value and resale appeal. An extra bedroom or bath is an attractive selling point for potential buyers. Garage conversions provide a high return on investment compared to other remodeling projects.
Finally, converting your garage allows you to better utilize the footprint of your existing home. Rather than letting your small garage sit empty, you can create a bright, inviting new living area for your family to enjoy.
Planning Your Small Garage Conversion
Converting your garage into a living space requires careful planning and consideration. The first step is determining your budget and whether you plan to hire a contractor or tackle the project as a DIY job. Securing proper permits is also an essential part of the planning process.
When budgeting for your garage conversion, be sure to account for building materials, hired labor if using a contractor, HVAC installation, and any custom design features. Garage conversions can range from $10,000 for simple drywall installations to $60,000 for high-end finished spaces.
Permit requirements vary by local municipality, but will likely include plumbing, electrical, and structural permits. Work with your local building department to ensure you obtain all required permits before starting work. Permits help ensure the safety and legality of the structure.
Installing proper heating and cooling is vital for a comfortable small garage conversion. Options include extending your existing HVAC system or installing a split ductless system just for the new space. Proper insulation is also key for efficiency.
When hiring a contractor, get at least 3 quotes and check references before selecting a provider. Make sure you understand exactly what is covered in the contract. For DIY conversions, create a detailed plan and timeline for completion. Depending on scope, garage conversions can take anywhere from 2 weeks to several months to complete. Allow time for any needed inspections.
Careful planning is the key to a successful garage conversion that adds valuable living space to your home. Determine your goals, budget, and timeline before beginning the exciting process.
Small Garage Conversion Design Ideas
Converting your garage into a living space opens up many possibilities to design an area that perfectly suits your needs and preferences. With some creative planning, you can transform your garage into a cozy family room, a home office, an extra bedroom or bathroom, or multipurpose space.
-
Living Space
One of the most popular garage conversions is turning the space into a family room or entertainment area. This allows you to add comfortable seating, a TV and media center, and décor to create a welcoming spot for relaxing and spending time together. For larger garages, consider including a wet bar or kitchenette for convenience.
Converting the garage into a home office is also a great option, especially for households that need a dedicated workspace. Add a desk, filing cabinets, bookshelves, and ample lighting to optimize the space for work. Soundproofing may be necessary if the office wall backs up to a noisy garage door.
For households needing more sleeping space, transforming the garage into a bedroom and bathroom can work beautifully. Be sure to add proper insulation, heating and cooling, closets and built-in storage to make it truly livable. A Murphy bed can allow using the room for multiple purposes.
-
Layout and Floorplans
When designing your converted garage, think creatively about how to best use the existing dimensions and layout. Typically, a single or double car garage offers ample square footage to incorporate multiple functions in the space.
Consider placing areas like a living room, office, or bedroom toward the back of the garage while having a utility area like laundry, storage, or bathroom closer to the garage door access. Breaking up the open garage into separate zones can help define each purpose.
To optimize headroom and space, experiment with layouts using architectural drawings or 3D modeling software. Incorporating lofts, built-in storage, higher ceilings, and open floor plans can prevent the converted garage from feeling too confined.
Materials
When converting your garage, you’ll need to think about materials that are durable, insulating, and match your desired aesthetic. Here are some options to consider:
- Drywall
Drywall is an essential material for finishing interior walls and ceilings. Opt for moisture-resistant drywall as garages tend to be damp environments. Look for drywall with a higher R-value for additional insulation. Consider hanging it vertically to minimize seams.
- Insulation
Proper insulation is key for comfort and energy efficiency. Use fiberglass batts or rigid foam boards on the exterior walls. Foam boards also add a vapor barrier to prevent moisture issues. Blown-in cellulose is great for the ceiling. Don’t forget the garage door—insulated steel models are available.
- Flooring
For flooring, poured concrete is typical for garages. Stain or paint the concrete for an inexpensive, durable option. Or install tongue-and-groove plywood over the concrete as a sub-floor for other finishes like tile, vinyl, or laminate flooring. Area rugs also add warmth over concrete.
- Reclaimed Materials
Adding reclaimed materials like barn wood adds character and charm. Use it for an accent wall, rustic flooring, or to build custom cabinetry. Just be aware of potential issues like warped boards, protruding nails, or musty odors. Source reclaimed materials from salvage yards and antique shops.
Lighting
Lighting is an important consideration when converting your garage into a living space. The right lighting design can make the space feel bright, airy and inviting. Here are some lighting ideas to consider:
1. Natural Light
- Install windows whenever possible to allow abundant natural light into your converted garage. Opt for large windows along one or more walls to maximize sunlight.
- Skylights are another great option to flood the space with natural light. Install skylights along the roofline to let daylight fill the room. Go for skylights with built-in blinds to control light as needed.
- Place windows high on the walls to encourage natural light penetration while maintaining privacy.
- Use light colored window treatments such as sheer curtains to diffuse and distribute natural daylight effectively throughout the room.
2. Artificial Lighting
- Include plenty of overhead lighting in the form of ceiling flush mounts, recessed lighting and pendant lights. Space out multiple fixtures evenly to illuminate the entire room.
- Add task lighting like under-cabinet lights in work areas or above desks. Position adjustable desk lamps for more focused light during detailed tasks.
- Use accent lighting like track lights or wall sconces to create visual interest and highlight specific zones or architectural details.
- Install dimmer switches to adjust the lighting based on ambience and activities taking place in the converted space.
HVAC System
Heating and cooling a converted garage space requires careful planning, as garages often lack adequate insulation and airflow. There are several options to consider:
1. Heating
- Electric or hydronic in-floor heating provides even and efficient warmth. Radiant systems work well for garages with exposed concrete floors.
- Ductless mini-split heat pumps offer zoned climate control and energy savings. They work as both a heater and AC.
- Forced air furnaces can tie into existing ductwork, but require proper insulation and air sealing.
- Radiant wall or ceiling panel heaters directly warm occupants and objects. Good for occasional use.
2. Cooling
- Air conditioning can be added with ductless mini-splits or a central air system. Ensure adequate ventilation and insulation.
- Ceiling fans improve air circulation and feel cooler through wind chill. Great on their own or with AC.
- Strategic ventilation like ridge vents helps remove hot air. Open doors or windows when possible.
3. Ventilation
- Exhaust fans control humidity and ventilate the space. Bathroom fans can be installed.
- Operable windows allow natural airflow. Casement styles open fully.
- Passive ventilation routes air through soffit vents and ridge vents.
- Proper insulation, sealing air leaks, and installing quality windows are critical first steps when conditioning a converted garage. An HVAC professional can assess the space and recommend the most cost-effective system.
Storage Solutions for Small Garage Conversion
One of the biggest challenges when converting a garage is maximizing the remaining storage space. Here are some creative ideas to keep your belongings organized in your new room:
1. Wall Storage Units
Install wall-mounted cabinets or open shelving on any blank walls. This takes advantage of vertical space and gets objects up and out of the way. For a garage workshop aesthetic, try industrial metal shelves. For a more polished look, enclosed cabinetry keeps items hidden behind doors.
2. Overhead Storage
Make use of overhead space by adding storage racks or shelves near the ceiling. These are great for infrequently used items or seasonal decorations. Ensure shelves are securely mounted and use proper ladders when accessing overhead storage.
3. Built-In Cabinetry
For a custom look, have cabinetry built into the walls around the perimeter of the room. Opt for floor-to-ceiling cabinetry to fully utilize vertical space. Include drawers, adjustable shelves, and other organizational components. Close off cabinets with doors to conceal contents.
4. Storage Benches
Storage benches provide seating while also stashing away items. Lift-top benches allow access to the interior space. Look for bench storage beds to double as extra sleeping space for guests. Storage ottomans also augment seating areas.
With creative storage solutions, garage conversions can still accommodate plenty of belongings. Strategic organization helps keep clutter at bay and maximizes remaining space.
Finishing Touches
When it comes to the finishing touches for your small garage conversion, you’ll want to make sure it feels like a natural extension of your home’s existing style. However, you can also have fun incorporating some garage-inspired elements as nods to the space’s origins.
-
Decor
Use paint colors, furniture, artwork, and window treatments to tie the converted garage into your home’s decor. Neutral walls or shades matching the rest of your home create cohesion. For pops of color, consider hues like red or blue that evoke the energy of a garage. Vintage signs, tool chests, or gas cans make fun decorative accents. Furnish the space with cozy seating and storage-maximizing pieces.
Garage-Inspired Elements
- Expose part of the original garage floor and paint it in bright stripes or a checkered pattern.
- Use metal finishes like stainless steel or galvanized metal for fixtures and hardware.
- Use visible pipes, conduits, or vents as industrial-chic design features.
- Display license plates, road signs, or gas station-style light fixtures.
- Add in garage-style cabinetry, utility sinks, or workshop tables.
- Leave part of the ceiling open to expose beams and unfinished aspects.
With thoughtful design choices, you can make your converted garage feel like it has always been part of your home while retaining hints of its former purpose. The finishing touches will bring together an inviting, stylish, and functional new living space.
How Much Does a Small Garage Conversion Cost? (2024)
The cost of a small garage conversion in 2024 can vary widely depending on several factors, including:
- Size and type of garage: A bigger garage will naturally cost more to convert than a smaller one. A detached garage may also be more expensive to convert than an attached one.
- Complexity of the conversion: A basic conversion into a bedroom or office might be relatively inexpensive. But if you plan on adding a bathroom, kitchen, or features like custom built-ins, the cost will increase significantly.
- Materials and finishes: High-end materials and finishes will obviously cost more than lower-end ones.
- Labor cost – Contractor fees for professional installation and trades such as electricians and plumbers account for a significant portion of the budget. DIY conversions can save substantially on labor.
- Permits & fees – Building permits, inspections and any architectural or engineering plans needed can add a few thousand dollars. Homeowners insurance may also increase with an added living space.
That being said, here’s a general idea of what you might expect to pay:
- National average: The national average cost to convert a garage into a living space falls between $5,000 and $50,000+ [US dollars], depending on the size and complexity of the conversion.
- Simpler conversions: A basic conversion to a bedroom or an office could cost around $5,000 to $17,000.
- More complex conversions: Conversions that include adding a bathroom or kitchen can range from $20,000 to $100,000+.
Here are some resources that can provide you with a more specific estimate for your small garage conversion project:
Angi: Provides an estimate range of $5,992 to $27,424, depending on factors like size, desired outcome, and materials used.
HomeGuide: offers a breakdown of costs based on the complexity of the conversion, starting from cosmetic updates for around $10 per square foot to full conversions requiring plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work, which can cost $30 or more per square foot.
With careful planning and budget-friendly material choices, many homeowners find garage conversions are an affordable way to add valuable living area to their homes. Getting quotes from various contractors and understanding all the costs involved allows you to keep your garage conversion within a reasonable budget.
Conclusion
Converting your garage into a living space can add tremendous value and enjoyment to your home. In this guide, we covered the key considerations when planning a small garage conversion such as design, materials, lighting, HVAC, storage solutions, and costs.
The investment into a garage conversion pays off in increased home value and usable square footage. Whether you convert your garage into a bedroom, home office, playroom, workshop, or entertaining area – a converted garage expands your home’s potential.
If you’re feeling inspired to re-imagine your garage after reading this guide, the next step is to start planning. Sketch out some initial ideas for how you’d use the space. Consult with a contractor to assess feasibility and get a cost estimate. Review permits and codes for your area.
Once you’ve done some initial planning, you’ll be ready to bring your small garage conversion ideas dreams to life! Converting your garage takes creativity, planning and investment – but the payoff is invaluable extra living space customized to your needs.