How do most people use their garages? While most of us use it for a vehicle or extra storage space simply because we have too many possessions to fit into our homes, the garage holds as many different function possibilities as any other part of the house. It’s an extremely interesting and versatile space.
Your garage holds a lot of hidden potential with endless possibilities for using it. But we often forget to turn our imagination on and see things outside the box. You can transform your garage into whatever you want it to be. Depending on where you live, in what condition your garage is, and how much work you’re ready to do, you can transform your garage into an actually useful area.
Check out six out-of-the-box ways to use your garage and discover which one works for you.
Home Gym
Lay down foam or rubber mats, set up your treadmill or weightlifting bench, make spots to do push-ups and sit-ups, use a step stool or sturdy box to do step workouts, and voila! Your at-home gym is ready for intense workouts.
Sometimes motivation can run low, but it’s easier to stay active regularly when your gym is only a few steps away.
You may feel worried about working out in your garage if you live in a hotter climate. The idea is to maintain cooler temperatures in your garage space. Just choose a door with heat-reflective finishes, so you’re not overheating during your workout.
And don’t forget about the tunes. Get cool speakers for your playlist and blast that music while you sweat it out. The gym is right in the comfort of your own home, and no more pesky membership fees!
Workshop
You’ve definitely picked up some new hobbies in the past couple of years, and your garage can be a great space to store all the necessary materials and enjoy those new activities there.
Whatever your hobby is — painting, robotics, crafting, woodworking, curtain making, gardening, puppetry, taxidermy or something else — the garage is a perfect place where you can store all your supplies, leave your unfinished projects from being disturbed, and get some fresh air while you work.
Home Office
Your garage might be an ideal space to set up an in-home office, especially if you are tired of working from the couch or bed. No more wasting much-needed bedroom space on an office chair with no room to roll!
Arrange your office station in solitude in the garage. Think about setting up a Wi-Fi extender and better lighting. A big folding table can be your desk, and a rolling chair will glide over your garage’s concrete floor. Keep important files in lockable metal filing cabinets and get plastic bins for office supplies. Finally, transport your laptop into the equipped workspace.
Now you have your own home office. The biggest advantage is that you’re really “going to work.” You feel like the garage is separate from your house and can easily divide your work and home life – without the stress and hassle of a commute!
Guest Room
Your garage may also be a great space for an additional living or guest room, especially if it’s not connected to the rest of your home.
Ensure that your garage is insulated and aerated enough for someone to sleep in, assemble a bed or air mattress on a rug or carpet, add a lamp, a power extension cord for charging devices, a fan, and a nightstand filled with water and toiletries. Tada! A perfect guest room is ready.
Now, when guests come to visit, both parties are able to have more privacy and space. Just make sure your garage isn’t dusty!
Meeting Place
Whether you’re organizing a book club, an insurgent political action group, or simply a party for your nearest and dearest, a garage can be a great place to host such meetings.
Think of the details. If you are planning a regular meeting, get a carpet or rug and a couple of comfy chairs or old soft couches and place them in a close circle to facilitate discussion. Also, install good lighting to read handouts and take notes. Think about some additional items your group will need. These may be glasses of wine and light snacks, little side tables, and maybe even a mini-fridge or wine rack.
Your garage may become an area that offers solace and guest entertaining. Such a lounge for both formal and informal meetings provides a secluded area to play billiards, have deep discussions, watch television, drink from the bar, or play board games. And if the party runs late, the garage walls help muffle the noise.
Kids Playroom
If you have kids, let them take over a garage space to avoid making a mess, breaking things, or being too loud at home. A garage is an ideal place for all those ride-on toys and balls.
Turn your garage space into a fun zone where the kiddos can be as loud and messy as they want. As for teenagers, the garage can be a great spot for hanging out with friends, playing pool or table tennis, holding band practice, or doing other hobbies together. Just remember to soundproof your garage if you don’t want to annoy the neighbors!
The Bottom Line
Garages are such versatile places! They are not only suitable for parking a vehicle or giving extra storage space. Sounds incredible, but people are using their garages as skate parks, dog shelters, cinemas, bowling clubs, etc.
Utilizing this extra space could be the next step in renovating your home without paying for an expensive extension. Make it your own, play around with some ideas and create something that appeals to your needs. Just remember to regularly have your garage door checked by a reputable repair services company to ensure the safety of everybody visiting your new spot.
If you’re looking to convert your garage into something more exciting than a storage space or a place to park your car, check out the six alternative garage use ways above and enjoy your new spot!
