Garages can be used for many different purposes. Because they’re at ground level and offer wide-open floor space, garages can be converted into much more than an automobile storage shed. Here are several different ways people can repurpose their garage.
1. Home Gym
If you’re looking to shed a few pounds or firm up your physique, a home gym might be just what you need. This idea is especially useful if you already have a good amount of exercise equipment. Consider some interlocking foam mats or rubber flooring to cushion your workout and allow for floor exercises. Also be sure there is proper ventilation and ample access to circulated air.
2. Spare/Guest Bedroom
If you’re running short on space in the house or often accommodate houseguests, converting your garage into an extra bedroom might be a good idea. Rather than just tossing a bed or futon in there, spruce it up with some functional and decorative furnishings. Make sure the lighting and flooring are comfortable and paint the walls and ceiling to make it feel just like a natural extension of your home. Also, be sure to keep plenty of blankets on hand if the garage isn’t heated!
3. Game Room
A game room is another way the entire family can make use of the garage. If you have smaller children, this can be used as a play area. If you have older children, this room could be used for playing video games. If you want to use it for yourself and other adults, you can use it for playing poker or other card games. Incorporating a dartboard, pool table, foosball table or table tennis table can go a long way towards turning this space into a fun one.
4. Hangout Spot
If you have pre-teen or teenaged children and want them to have just the right amount of space and privacy, turning your garage into their “hangout” spot could be a good plan. Be sure to let them have influence over the décor — a place of their own will allow them a sense of independence they may be yearning for during their high school years. You may also want to think about soundproofing the room to keep from having to ask repeatedly to keep the noise down.
5. “Man Cave”
A “man cave” can be many things. It can even be a “woman cave” if you want! While the concept often describes typically male interests, what we’re describing is an environment created to cater to your own enjoyment and comfort. Maybe that includes eating, drinking and watching sports, or maybe it means working on arts and crafts. Whatever your hobbies, you can dedicate your garage entirely to them.
6. Home Office
If you’re self-employed or work from home regularly, using your garage for work could be more efficient than using it for your car. It allows for just the right amount of distance from your living space while still being close enough to use the WiFi. Aside from your home office essentials, figure out what kind of surroundings you need to work your best and decorate accordingly.
7. Home Theater
If you and your family members are movie buffs, a home theater would probably be thoroughly enjoyed. The garage is a great space for such a room! One of the fun aspects of having a home theater is the ability to accessorize the room with as much or as little detail as you’d like. It can be as basic as a couch and a home entertainment system; or it could come equipped with a popcorn maker, snack bar, mood lighting and surround sound
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