{"id":83789,"date":"2023-05-19T13:44:50","date_gmt":"2023-05-19T20:44:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=83789"},"modified":"2023-06-05T07:57:45","modified_gmt":"2023-06-05T14:57:45","slug":"garage-conversion-tips-from-professionals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garage-conversion-tips-from-professionals\/","title":{"rendered":"Transforming Your Garage into a Functional and Stylish Space with Tips from Garage Conversion Experts"},"content":{"rendered":"

Gone are the days when garages were merely used for parking cars. Today, garages have evolved into versatile spaces that can serve a multitude of purposes. If you’re looking to repurpose your garage into something more than just a car storage area or simply renovate your garage\u2019s curb appeal, you’re in the right place. In this Redfin article, we’ll dive into expert garage conversion tips and ideas that will help you unleash the full potential of your garage, transforming it into a functional and stylish space that goes beyond its traditional role.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Whether you need to install air conditioning because you own a <\/span>house in Sarasota, FL<\/span><\/a>, or you\u2019re starting from scratch with a complete garage makeover in <\/span>Rochester, NY<\/span><\/a>, get ready to reimagine your garage as a versatile hub for creativity, productivity, and endless possibilities.<\/span><\/p>\n

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1. Apply the 20\/20 rule for an effective garage makeover<\/span><\/h2>\n

\u201cThe 20\/20 rule, created by The Minimalists, Joshua Fields Millburn, and Ryan Nicodemus, sets the notion that if you can replace something in less than 20 minutes for less than $20.00, you don’t need to keep it. The belief is that there is a low chance you’ll actually have to replace the items once you let them go,\u201d mentions Michelle Urban, Owner of <\/span>The Organized House<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\u201cIn my experience helping clients organize, the 20\/20 rule works best when decluttering smaller items with little to no sentimental value \u2014 the \u2018just in case\u2019 items that you think you might need someday. This can include tools, gardening supplies, camping supplies, and household utility items.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Ask yourself these five hard questions when organizing and decluttering your garage<\/span><\/h2>\n

\u201cGarages are one of the most challenging spaces to declutter and organize. Not only do they tend to be a good size, but it’s also where we dump our unmade decisions. We store our keepsakes, miscellaneous items, back stock items, and everything else,\u201d says Michelle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you have difficulty deciding about the belongings you have accumulated, ask yourself these questions to help you decipher whether your items belong in your space:<\/span><\/p>\n

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  1. Do you love it and have a designated space for it?<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. How often do you use it and when was the last time you used it?<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Will you use it again in the future?<\/span><\/li>\n
  4. Could it be more beneficial to someone else?<\/span><\/li>\n
  5. Would you repurchase it if given the chance?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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    3. Get air conditioning installed in your garage<\/span><\/h2>\n

    “Let’s face it, working in extreme heat or cold is never enjoyable. Whether you plan to use your garage as a workspace, storage area, or both, ensuring year-round comfort is crucial. If you live in a region with extreme heat or snow, climate control becomes even more essential,\u201d says\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    Julian Rodriguez III from <\/span>Vista Montana Builders<\/span><\/a>. \u201cWith air conditioning, you can make the space more comfortable to work in while also protecting stored items from extreme temperatures and humidity. Consider investing in an air conditioning system during your garage renovation project to make it a comfortable and functional space.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

    4. Pre-wire everything in your garage for clean walls and seamless integration<\/span><\/h2>\n

    \u201cDepending on your budget for the garage project, consider pre-wiring and installing access tubes behind the walls for future cable or wire installations,\u201d recommends Julian. \u201cThis allows you to finish the trim or other details when you’re ready. For example, you may want to install ceiling speakers later on. By pre-wiring your set-up, you can easily install these devices without visible wires or conduit, making your garage space more aesthetically pleasing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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    5. Transform your garage into a social haven of fun and relaxation\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

    \u201cIf you plan on using your garage as a hangout spot, why not make it the ultimate entertainment hub? Install a large TV, surround sound speakers, and comfortable seating to create the perfect entertainment room,\u201d recommends Julian. \u201cYou can also add a game table for friendly competitions, a mini-fridge for drinks and snacks, and even a popcorn machine for a true cinema experience. With a little creativity, your garage can become the perfect place to relax, socialize, and have fun.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

    6. Elevate your garage renovations by breaking the rules<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Haleema Burton, Professional Organizer at <\/span>Jillian & Leigh<\/span><\/a> believes, \u201cGarage renovations offer a great excuse to break the standard rules. Who says that garages have to look like… Well, garages?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    Haleema says you should, \u201cTap into a monochromatic palette that will add a great visual aesthetic to your garage, whether you choose all white or black accessories, storage bins, and shelving. The addition of colorful tools will provide that extra pop of color.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

    7. Organize your garage like a department store<\/span><\/h2>\n

    \u201cIf you want to organize your garage so everything is super-easy to find, try setting it up like a home improvement or department store with different categories like car care, gardening, home repairs, tools, camping, outdoor toys, cleaning, painting, etc.,\u201d says Christa Mobley, Founder of <\/span>InnerLift<\/span><\/a>. \u201cThen put those like items together, and even consider labeling shelves, cabinets, or containers so the whole family knows where each \u2018department\u2019 is located.<\/span><\/p>\n

    The best way to maximize every inch of your garage and keep it easy to maintain is to use all of the wall space and keep as much as possible off of the floor. There are many different wall organizing systems that have special holders for everything from gardening tools, hose reels, and sports equipment to toys, bikes, and even car seats. Then you don’t even have to sweep the floor, just use your leaf blower and blow the dust and dirt right out the garage door.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Katherine Picott, a Professional Home Organizer from Tidy Milso<\/a>, brings years of experience in organizing garages. According to her expertise, she suggests, “Starting by dividing the garage into four zones, such as car supplies, hobbies and sports equipment, beach and travel gear, and tools. It’s recommended to maximize vertical space for storing yard tools and non-hazardous chemicals, while refraining from storing food items in the garage to prevent attracting insects or vermin.”<\/p>\n

    8. Simple garage renovation projects that increases value and functionality<\/span><\/h2>\n

    \u201cThere are a number of simple projects that can greatly increase the value of your garage while making it more functional for everyday use. Start by installing drywall and giving it a fresh coat of paint. This cleans up the space and gives it a finished feel. Once that is done, install shop cabinets or shelving. This will help you organize and store your belongings in such a way that they are easy to find and access,\u201d provides <\/span>Highline Construction<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

    \u201cNext, invest in a professional organizing service or take inspiration from someone like <\/span>The Orderly Space<\/span><\/a>. Organize everything in bins, use a label maker, and have some fun. If you want to take it one step further, install a new garage door. You can opt for something with additional glass to bring more natural light into the space. With an ROI of 97% to 102%, according to the <\/span>2023 cost vs. value report<\/span><\/a> for the Pacific region, you can sleep well knowing that you are both increasing the value of your home, while increasing curb appeal.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

    9. Enhance your garage conversion by maximizing space, light, and style<\/span><\/h2>\n

    \u201cGarage conversions are probably the most common form of accessory dwelling units (ADU),\u201d says Karen Steinberg from <\/span>Decor Revolution<\/span><\/a>. \u201cAt Decor Revolution, our top priorities in designing these small spaces are the following, which we recommend you consider while optimizing your garage conversion:<\/span><\/p>\n