Design the Ideal Garage Space with Stock Plans
What makes a space ideal? The answer to that is whatever makes it your space. Your carte blanche to make it into anything you want it to be. If you’re like most of us, you wish you had a little more space. If you have a family, chances are you have little space to call your own. It would help if you had a garage or an extension of your living space. Wouldn’t it be fabulous if you could design your ideal space with stock garage plans? Well, guess what? You can.
What are you doing this afternoon? Why not take a drive and become a garage scout? That’s right; take a notepad and write down everything you see as you head down the road. What pops out at you? Is it the condition? How many new garages do you see? How many look like they just landed on a magazine cover? What is it that appeals to you? Does anything turn you off?
What if we told you you didn’t have to settle for that old, beat-up, weather-beaten shack you’ve been calling a garage? Even if you don’t know what you want, you’ll know when you see it. If you’re looking for the ultimate plan, Behm Design has taken the guesswork out of your dream garage.
Before you think it’s impossible, let’s take a look at some uses for your garage, some of the key features to focus on, and tips for personalizing your garage for maximum functionality.
Fabulous Uses for Stock Garages
- What would you do with an extra garage? Have you got a side hustle? Is the family tired of you taking over the kitchen table for your crafts? And what about storage? All that yarn you’ve been collecting has to go somewhere. Wouldn’t it be great to have see-through labeled totes on shelves at your fingertips? That’s where Behm Design comes in and where the fun begins. Here’s what you can do with extra space:
- Home Gym: Turn your garage into a fitness space with workout equipment, mirrors, and a rubberized floor for exercise routines.
- Workshop or DIY Studio: Set up a dedicated space for woodworking, crafting, or other hobbies, complete with tools, workbenches, and organized storage.
- Home Office or Remote Workspace: Convert the garage into a quiet, productive area for working remotely, complete with desks, shelves, and lighting.
- Game Room or Man Cave: To create the ultimate hangout spot, add comfortable seating, a pool table, and a big-screen TV.
- Art Studio: You can use your garage as an art studio with easels.
- Guest Suite or Tiny Apartment: With insulation, plumbing, and electricity, you can turn your garage into a guest suite, tiny apartment, or even a rentable Airbnb space.
- Indoor Gardening or Greenhouse: Convert the space into an indoor garden with grow lights and racks for plants or a small greenhouse for growing herbs and vegetables.
- Pet Grooming Station: Set up a grooming area for your pets, complete with a washing station, grooming tools, and storage for pet supplies.
- Library or Reading Nook: Install bookshelves, cozy seating, and soft lighting to create a serene reading space away from the hustle of the main house.
- Playroom for Kids: Convert the space into a playroom for children.
Some Key Features to Design Your Ideal Space with Stock Garage Plans
Planning is always easier when you know where to begin. Here’s a jumping-off point to get you started with brainstorming some of the key features you may want to include:
- Vehicles: Determine how many vehicles you want to store and what type (cars, trucks, boats, etc.). Include extra room for maneuvering or storing larger vehicles.
- Garage Doors: Consider the type (roll-up, sectional, or carriage-style), material (steel, wood, or aluminum), and insulation. Ensure they complement the home’s aesthetic.
- Height and Width: Choose custom door sizes if you have larger vehicles or need extra clearance.
- Entry Points: Consider side doors for easy access and windows for natural light.
- Lighting: Overhead lights, task lighting for workbenches, and motion-activated lights near doors enhance functionality.
- Electrical Plan: Install sufficient electrical outlets, considering power needs for tools, charging stations, or electric vehicles. Don’t forget ceiling outlets for garage door openers.
- Non-Slip Surfaces: Ensure the flooring is safe and slip-resistant and that it will be easy to clean and maintain over time.
- Heating and Cooling: Consider HVAC systems or portable solutions if you’ll be working in the garage year-round.
- Insulation: Insulate walls, doors, and ceilings to regulate temperature and reduce noise.
- Ventilation: Proper ventilation is a must if you use materials with fumes.
- Workshop Space: Designate areas with appropriate workbenches, tool storage, and lighting.
- Hobby/Studio Space: Consider adding space for hobbies like painting, woodworking, or auto repair.
- Exterior Design: Match the garage to your home’s exterior.
- Windows: Include windows to add natural light, but balance with security considerations.
- Floor Drainage: Install floor drains if you anticipate washing vehicles or dealing with snow and rain.
- Waterproofing: Ensure the garage is protected from moisture, especially if you live in a wet climate.
How to Personalize Your Garage for Maximum Functionality
A custom garage is your opportunity to create a space that works for you. Whether you want to use it as a workshop, a storage hub, or a creative retreat, personalizing your garage can maximize its functionality. Here’s how:
- Tailor Storage to Your Needs Think about how you’ll use the space and customize your storage accordingly. For example, if you’re an avid gardener, consider adding a potting bench, garden tool storage, and wall-mounted hooks for hoses. If you’re into sports, install racks for bicycles, skis, or golf clubs. Cabinets and shelving can be designed to store everything you need, from tools to holiday decorations.
- Incorporate Smart Technology: Smart garages are becoming more popular, and integrating technology can enhance the convenience and security of your space. Automated garage doors, smart lighting, and climate control systems allow you to easily manage your garage. Additionally, installing security cameras or motion sensors can help protect your belongings.
Photo by Behm Design at www.behmdesign.com
You can design an ideal garage that fulfills all your needs by brainstorming uses, considering key design features, and personalizing your space. With custom garage plans, your garage can be that extra space you’ve wanted. Need some help deciding which plan is right for you? Give us a call at Behm Designs today. We’ll be happy to help you with the details.