Home improvements often include a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and living room, but a garage is at the backfoot for most homeowners without realizing that a garage is one such place that can accommodate multiple items along with the vehicles if space is designed properly. Garage designing is vital to maximise the horizontal as well as the vertical space to create additional storage space while balancing between functionality and visual appeal. Designing a garage requires a keen eye on detailing just like any other home renovation project. There are different ways to take up the project, considering factors affecting the layout. In this article we discuss garage designing and related points for flawless finishing to meet the practical requirements.
Essential Factors to Consider When Designing the Garage
There are certain factors you should consider while preparing the layout because each one of them is vital for the successful accomplishment of the project. Let's have a look at the factors.
Functionality
Functionality is a key factor that should be considered in garage designing because a well-designed layout serves the storage needs of the house to store lawn equipment along with parking vehicles.
Local Garage Permit
One of the most important tips to consider is to check if your garage layout meets the zoning laws. Each state has a different rule, and violation of the rule may put you behind bars or pay a penalty, so be mindful of the permit.
Location
Decide the location of the garage, whether you want a separate garage attached to the house or detached from the rest of the house. A garage is a service zone of the house, so it should be close to the kitchen or utility room for convenience if the layout permits.
Size Based on the Number of Vehicles
Decide the shape and size of the garage depending on the size and number of the vehicle and also if you need extra workshop space.
Height of the Door
Keep the height of the door to at least nine ft. tall to ensure there's no damage caused to the door or the lights hung at the entrance when bringing in load on top of the van, be it sheets of plywood or longboards for repair work.
The Heating System on the Floor
If you stay in a colder zone, install an in-built heating system in the floor to cope with the cold garage floor. If you opt for a DIY method, it may cost between $2 -$3 per square foot, whereas the involvement of an expert may double that of DIY.
Wall AC Unit
To keep the tools dry and rust-free and to reduce the humidity level, install through-the-wall AC as it will fulfill the motive without blocking the window.
Think of a Big-Size Backdoor
A big door at the back could serve multiple purposes such as to carry out the woodwork or to make it a central storage place for parties in the backyard.
Install a Sub-Panel
Sub-panel installation is a smart way to meet all the power requirements of any appliances fixed in the garage. It will add to the cost, but considering the benefits, it's worth the investment.
Storage Trusses
It's a cost-effective option to open up space in the attic area. A storage truss over the 24 x 24ft garage may cost $200.
Upgrade to Attic Trusses
An attic truss costs 2.5 times the standard trusses, adding up to the cost of the garage. However, it's worth investing in because you may transform the attic space into your office space or workout space.
How to Design a Garage?
Garage designing can be done with a little bit of research or seeking help from an expert who can help you prepare the layout of the planner. We discuss more about the design element of the garage in the simplest way to help you and many others wind up the project via DIY.
Prioritize Your Interest
Your personal choices are far above any trend or functionality because a design without a personal touch may not create interest in you. Whether you are a tinkerer, a music lover, or a camping person, there's a possibility to carve a small place to meet your personal needs.
Maximize Storage Vertically
Expanding space horizontally may get challenging with limited space, but creating vertical storage space is possible using wall storage, shelves, and cabinets to display your interests by hanging a bicycle or fishing rod while meeting the storage requirement.
Create Space for All the Items
Allott space for all the items, be it a small tape, garage equipment, or a pair of slippers, for ease of storage and access. This will also ensure a clutter-free garage.
Use Overhead Storage Space
Overhead space like ceiling can be easily used to store items like surfboards or canoes, which are less frequently used. Use a ladder or a pulley system to access these items when needed.
Bring in Elements of Comfort
Make the garage a place of comfort and functionality by painting the walls with your favorite colors and revamping flooring, rustic lights, and AC to lower humidity. All these will transform the cemented room into a homey place.
Stand Up the Elements
No matter where you stay (desert or mountain), the garage should be well-equipped to face the challenges of external elements. Add insulation, weather stripping on the doors and windows, and storage space to store winter gear.
Must Have Mudroom
A mudroom is a must-have element of a garage because it helps avoid the mess of a muddy shoe or dirt pet paws entering the garage by entertaining them at the entrance.
Carve a Distinct Entertainment Zone
You may use some space as a gym, man cave, or a small living room, though it comes with an investment. Also, the size of the garage should be big enough to accommodate the cars as well as your hobbies.
Conclusion
A well-designed garage can meet all the functional and aesthetic requirements if you consider some of the essential factors discussed in the first half of the article. Also, focus more on your specific requirements for a homely feel inside the cemented space considered as a not-so-interesting zone.
