subject: Creating Storage And Living Space Out Of A Garage [print this page] At the start of each new day you probably step out into your garage and think to yourself "This could be a great space!" You may be overwhelmed throughout the rest of your house with all of your stuff or you may be feeling the pinch of having too many people living in cramped rooms that are just not quite large enough. You may have dreams of finishing your basement and making it into a club room or family space, but with everything stored down there now, you just cannot imagine where you will put if all if you finish off the space. In frustration, the day begins and your garage remains the same as always, nothing more than storage for your car. All of that can be fixed with a little time, money, and creativity. Once the revamp is complete, the garage will make for a great storage or living space, whichever you choose. Start with your storage needs and pricing items like cantilever racking or wire partitions for storage.
Take a good look around the garage and figure out what can be donated or tossed and what needs to be kept. This is the best way to determine the right kind of storage system because you will know for sure what will need to stay in the garage.
Next, determine if you are moving items from the indoors out. If your ultimate goal is creating more living space in your home, your garage can become a perfect storage area. The key is to create an organization system that works for you, and to make the garage a little more homey so you do not mind spending time putting items away. Just like the rest of your house, your garage must be an inviting space if it is going to be used. If the storage is useable and everyone likes the area, it is sure to be used. This will give you more space inside for living.
Few changes are needed in a garage that is used for storage. The temperature may already be just fine if your garage is attached or you are not storing climate sensitive items. You may need to add some additional security or make a few minor repairs, but overall, most garages work well for storage.
If you think your garage might make for great additional living space, the changes needed will require a bit more work. You will need more insulation to create a comfortable climate-controlled space. You will definitely need to upgrade the security features of the space if you are going to have furniture and electronics in the garage. You will also need the space to feel as comfortable as any other in your room so family members have a desire to use it just like the other rooms.
