As one of the best ways of adding space to a house without actually extending its footprint, garage conversions come with a whole host of benefits, not least that they tend to be one of the most cost-effective ways of expanding a home.

That said, there are also some challenges associated with this type of project – how to insulate them properly, getting the floor levels right, and ensuring they feel like part of the rest of the house – being just a few. One of the most common issues faced by homeowners wanting to convert their garage, however, tends to be how to get adequate natural light into the new space – without being left feeling overly exposed.

We reached out to the experts to get their advice on the best ways of pulling natural light into a garage conversion in a way that maintains privacy, as well as contributing to the finished external appearance of the structure.

1. Add a rooflight or lantern

Rooflights and roof lanterns can be the ideal solution for pulling light into all kinds of spaces, where standard horizontal windows are going to be difficult to incorporate – plus, the light they do draw in is incredibly clear and bright, making them perfect for north-facing conversions too.

Zaeem Chaudhary, chartered architectural technologist and director of AC Design Solution, cannot recommend this route highly enough. "The most impactful thing you can do in a garage conversion is install a rooflight. Because garages typically sit at the front of a property with no side elevations to glaze, roof-level glazing is often the only way to bring in unobstructed sky light without any privacy compromise whatsoever as the light comes from above, not across a boundary.

"Where the budget and structure allow, a roof lantern or continuous ridge glazing takes the idea of a rooflight further," continues Zaeem. "The only downside to a roof lantern is that they have a pitch on them, which can requiring planning permission."

Architectural technologist Zak Gilby of DeVis Architecture has some more advice for those considering rooflights or lanterns. "Where there is a flat or pitched roof above and no first floor, I would absolutely add a rooflight or lantern – with the only exception being if the owner plans to have a TV in the room, as a rooflight directly above a TV can cause significant glare on the screen."

2. Use obscured glazing in the existing opening

Perhaps the most obvious way to pull light into your garage conversion ideas is by turning the existing garage door into a window – but this needs to be done thoughtfully if you don't want to be left feeling exposed.

"Garage conversions are one of the most challenging spaces to light effectively, especially where garages are integral (an integrated part of the ground floor, with a first floor above), given that there is nowhere to add a rooflight or lantern, and often only one wall where a window can be positioned," points out Zak Gilby. "Similarly, if two properties are attached by the garages, there will be no opportunity for side windows either."

So what does Zak suggest? "In these cases, the simplest opportunity for natural light is the existing garage opening. Where privacy is a concern, for example if the property is along a busy road with high footfall, or where there's no meaningful front garden or driveway space, obscured glazing or reeded glass can allow light in without giving a direct view inside.

"It's important to note, though, that these are permanent fixtures which may not be the best for all uses, such as if you are proposing a snug or garage conversion bedroom within the converted garage," warns Zak. "Obscured glazing significantly reduces the quality of the space."

"Often you can remove your garage doors and add a standard window without planning permission," points out architect Tina Patel from Architect Your Home. "If you happen to be in a conservation area, this can be done with glass inserts into what looks like a garage door in the front."

Alternatively, for a less permanent fixture, you could try using window film that will give you the privacy you need, but can be removed or changed if required.

Shop for privacy window film

3. Insert high-level clerestory windows

Lying somewhere in between ceiling glazing and horizonal windows, high-level windows, also often referred to as clerestory windows, can be the perfect way of bringing light into a space where privacy is an issue.

This type of glazing can, in fact, be used in all kinds of ways, from getting light into basement conversions, to helping to pull light deep into the plan of a house suffering from the dreaded 'dark middle room'. Like roof glazing, this high-level light offers a remarkably bright, clear quality.

If you plan creating a bedroom in your garage conversion, do think through how you will prevent the early morning sun streaming in and ruining a good night's sleep – you may well find you'll need to have custom-made blinds or window coverings designed to fit. Automated blinds are a good idea too as reaching this type of opening can be tricky.

4. Choose your window coverings with care

While we're on the topic of window coverings, bear in mind that simply choosing the right method of keeping out the light can make all the difference here, no matter what types of windows you have opted for.

If you have decided on standard windows, set into the old garage door opening, or to the side of the conversion, focus on selecting a covering that allows light in while also protecting your privacy, rather than something that is either opened or closed with no in-between option.

"I would opt for a high-quality set of blinds or shutters," reveals Zak Gilby. "Wooden shutters that allow the bottom half to close whilst the top remain open would be ideal for flexibility."

You can find an excellent range of shutter blinds in different sizes and colours at Blinds2Go.

5. Consider installing a bay window if planning allows

Bay window ideas aren't just for traditional-style homes and actually come in all kinds of shapes, sizes and designs to suit modern and period properties alike.

"If planning permits, a bay window (either curved or angular) can be another option," picks up Zak Gilby, who goes on to explain how this type of window can also help with privacy.

"The angled glazing reflects light in different directions which can help obscure the direct views into the space," says Zak. "As a result, passers-by are more likely to see reflections of the surrounding street and houses rather than clear views into the room."

Be aware that in some cases, given their protruding nature and the fact that this will be at the front elevation of your house, incorporating a bay window might also mean you will need to apply for planning permission rather than it falling under permitted development.

6. Use internal glazing to share light

Using internal window ideas is a brilliant way to bring natural light into all kinds of otherwise gloomy spaces, making it possible to borrow light from other rooms.

"If the room is going to be a reception room – one that is public, like a living room, rather than private, such as a bedroom – internal glazing or glass partitions can allow the new spaces to share natural light with the hallway," explains Zak Gilby. "However, you should note that this can sometimes be expensive due to fire safety requirements (in the case of three-storey homes) and limits the use of the space as a private space in the future."

Internal glass doors can make a lot of sense if you want the new space to be flexible in terms of how you use it too – allowing for it to be kept open when needed or closed off when quiet or privacy is the order of the day.

Tina Patel has some reassuring words for anyone still stuck for ways to pull in natural light. "If you are struggling to get any natural light in, consider how you use the space, could you make it a cosy movie room that doesn’t need natural light, or make the space a low-use room such as a utility that may not need as much natural light?"

7. Explore the possibility of fitting a sunpipe

And, finally, do take the time to look into the possibility of fitting a light pipe – also known as a sunpipe or sun tunnel amongst other terms. You can find a range of sunpipes at Roofing Superstore.

This is a clever method of bringing natural light into windowless spaces and is a particularly good way of lighting a landing. It involves installing a dome or panel into the roof through which light is pulled into a highly-reflective tube, which then transports it through to a diffuser located in the ceiling.

"If you have a section of roof slightly offset from the space that you can use, a sun tunnel can be a good option," says Zak Gilby, although he goes on to point out that this is not a solution that will suit everyone.

"While interesting in principle, some people see them just as a large spotlight that you cannot switch off if you want a darker space."

FAQs

Do you have to have a window in a garage conversion?

Obviously incorporating a window of some kind into your garage conversion is the best way to pull in natural light – but is it a requirement when it comes to garage conversion building regulations?

This very much depends on other factors – namely ventilation and fire safety. If you are converting your garage into a habitable room, unless mechanical ventilation is being incorporated, you will need an opening window equivalent to 1/20th of the floor area of the new space, fitted with a high-level trickle vent.

In terms of fire escape, if there is no external door from your conversion to outside, or the door opens into any room other than your entrance hall, a window large enough to fit through, with fire escape hinges will be required.

When weighing up all the pros and cons of which route will be best for you when it comes to adding extra space to your home, be sure to look into garage conversion costs – while they are usually cheaper than extension costs, an extension could add more value. And, be sure to avoid these common garage conversion mistakes when finalising your plans.

A home office garage conversion just makes sense. Located away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, often with its own access between inside and out, and making use of what is often just wasted space anyway, this is the ideal location for a spot to work from home.

That said, there are particular considerations to bear in mind when using garage conversions as home offices if you want yours to be a success.

If this is a project you have been considering, our guide is here to offer you the very best advice on creating a productive work-from-home set-up in your garage.

Is a garage conversion home office a good idea?

Garage conversions have the potential to be transformed into all kinds of spaces.

"Recent statistics show that more than half (53 per cent) of garages are not used to house cars," reveals Andy Simms, from MyBuilder.com. "Instead, they often become extra storage areas or dumping grounds, when they could instead be used to create a room in your home.

"Garage conversions can be remarkably versatile, and actually extremely affordable," continues Andy. "In terms of extending your home, it’s one of the most cost-effective ways to gain extra space at a reasonable cost."

But how can you ensure your conversion helps you realise all your home office design ideas? Check out our expert's top tips.

1. Think about your individual needs

Your working day is likely to be unique to you. It might be that you need space to accommodate clients or hold meetings, or perhaps your job means you need plenty of storage. Your home office design needs to reflect your particular needs.

"To maximise functionality, think about what sort of things you need in your home office – how many desks, how many monitors, sockets, space for printers and so on," picks up architect Tina Patel from Architect Your Home. "Are you distracted by a view to the outside or inspired when you can see into the garden? Do you make a lot of calls, do you want to be closed off from the family when in the office and be undisturbed? Do you pace when on calls or need a seat for those long conversations Understanding this will help to create the right layout for you."

2. Make sure it feels comfortable all year round

The last thing you want when working from home is to sit with your teeth chattering and fingers frozen to your keyboard – meaning good insulation and a reliable heat source are crucial.

"Normally garages aren’t insulated spaces or heated – so you will need to insulate all the external walls, floors and roof," says Tina Patel. "This will inevitably make the space smaller, but will be unlikely to impact it’s use as a comfortable home office."

"Garages are not typically built for year-round use," adds Paula Higgins, chief executive of HomeOwners Alliance. "To make the space comfortable in all seasons, you’ll need to insulate the walls, floor and ceiling thoroughly. This will also help with energy efficiency."

She goes on to reveal her favourite way of heating a garage conversion.

"Consider underfloor heating – it works well in smaller rooms and frees up wall space."

3. Consider how you'll access your home office

Alongside insulating a garage conversion to keep it cosy, the way in which you enter and exit your new space is really important in the case of home offices, particularly if you will be having colleagues, clients or customers visit on a regular basis and don't want them traipsing through your kitchen.

"If your garage is attached to the house you will need to consider how you will create direct access," explains Tina Patel. "This could be via the hallway, or from another space, such as a kitchen. Think about the impact on the space that already exists to accommodate this.

"If your garage is detached, look at whether you can create some form of covered access between the house and the garage – a small canopy can work well if located to the side of the house as you will want to be able to get to work in your home office without being put off by the elements – especially on the coldest, rainiest days."

4. Address the need for natural light

The last thing you want is a gloomy home office – biophilic design and plenty natural light is so important for a sense of wellbeing and in helping boost productivity.

"Getting natural light into the space can often be achieved by adding windows in the position where the old garage access door was," advises Tina Patel. "However, often this won't not be enough and in some cases it is preferable to maintain the aesthetic of a garage door to keep the house uniform with others in the street.

"This might mean considering skylights if you have a flat roof or rooflights if you have a pitched roof," continues Tina. "Where possible make these opening to allow for ventilation – and do consider the impact of these in terms of glare on screens. This will be important to make it a home office that feels great to work in."

"Installing French doors or bi-fold doors to the side or rear is another good idea," adds Paula Higgins.

5. Prioritise your tech set-up

Modern home office ideas really need to take into account accommodating any technology you'll need to install within the space.

"You will likely need to boost your Wi-Fi signal, especially if the garage is detached or far from the main router," explains Paula Higgins. "You could consider installing a mesh Wi-Fi system to extend coverage. Alternatively, you might look at running an Ethernet cable directly from your home router.

"You will need to ensuring there are plenty of electrical sockets, USB points and provision for printers or other hardware," continues Paula. "If you're running a business, you should also consider installing a separate phone line and business-grade broadband."

6. Add soundproofing measures to block distractions

Just as with a garage conversion bedroom, you'll need to make sure that the din of everyday life doesn't disturb the peace in your new home office – and this is where incorporating some soundproofing measures can help.

"If your garage faces the street or shares a wall with your noisy family or neighbours, soundproofing is essential," picks up Paula Higgins. "Likewise, if you’ll be on Zoom calls or recording podcasts, you won’t want household noise leaking in or others to hear your conversations.

"Use acoustic plasterboard, insulated wall panels, or soundproof curtains," suggests Paula. "Carpet the floors or lay down acoustic vinyl with underlay and seal gaps around doors and windows to block external noise."

7. Don't forget to consider overheating

Alongside addressing the need for good heating, do take time to consider how to prevent overheating if you foresee this becoming an issue.

While the new insulation you should have added will help, there are other steps to consider taking too.

"Look at whether your new home office will be prone to getting too warm in summer, especially if it is a south-facing garage," says Paula Higgins. "A ceiling fan or even an air conditioning unit may be worth installing."

Don't forget the need for good window shading too – shutters and Venetian blinds are both great ways to shield the space from bright sunlight yet can be opened up easily when needed.

Shop overheating prevention

8. Deal with the practicalities of a garage conversion

Whatever you intend on using your garage conversion for, be it a home office or a guest bedroom, you will need to think about where you'll store all that 'stuff' you currently keep in the space. Failing to do this is a really common garage conversion mistake.

"Think about what you will do with the stuff that currently is in the garage – do you need any of it? Do you need to integrate any additional storage space into the office so that you have somewhere for this," says Tina Patel.

"Garages are also often where the incoming services are, such as gas meters," continues Tina. "Think about whether you'll need to have these moved or whether you can create a cupboard in the space to leave them in situ."

You could also design the space as a 'split room conversion'.

"Many garages are quite spacious and could be converted into two smaller rooms, allowing for a multi-purpose function," explains Andy Simms. "One idea could be to create an office on one side, with a gaming or playroom on the other. The rooms could be split with a wall or a divider, depending on the usage."

9. Budget for all the neccesities

On top of your basic garage conversion costs, you'll need to factor in other things such as furniture and equipment, as well as labour costs for electricians. You might also like to consider building in a toilet or bathroom to avoid you having to venture into the house when nature calls.

"A garage conversion is likely to cost in the region of £15-20k for most parts of the country and up to £25k for London and surrounding areas," says Andy Simms. "You do not need planning permission for most conversions, but you’ll face roughly a £500 fee from your local Building Control for your application and an inspection fee to sign off your conversion project."

"Don’t forget some of the expenses may be tax deductible," points out Tina Patel. "Speak to an accountant on what is and ensure your builder understands and can provide you with itemised lists."

10. Add finishing touches that make working from home a pleasure

And, finally, don't miss the opportunity to make your home working set-up a pleasure to spend time in. Everything from your home office layout to the colours you paint the walls will have an effect on how the space feels.

"Make it inspiring, not just functional," encourages Paula Higgins. "Make it a place where you want to work and this will boost your productivity.

"Add plants, artwork, or a comfy chair for reading breaks," she continues. "And use smart storage to hide clutter and keep the space feeling calm."

Shop home office decor

FAQs

Will a home office garage conversion require planning permission?

In most cases planning permission will not be require to convert a garage into a home office as this is an alteration that falls under permitted development.

That said, there are exceptions. If you live in a listed building or in a conservation area, planning will be required. If your conversion will significantly alter the external appearance of the garage, permission might also be needed.

While changing the old garage door into a window usually won't need planning permission, windows to the side that might affect your neighbours may. Check with you local planning office first.

Even if you have found the perfect spot for your home office elsewhere in the house, there are plenty of other garage conversion ideas worth considering to ensure you are using this space wisely.

If you’re looking to reclaim space inside your home, converting your garage – or part of it – into a utility room is a great way to take the pressure off your kitchen or hallway. As garage conversions go, it’s a relatively straightforward project, and one that can deliver real day-to-day benefits.

Whether you're planning a full fit-out or simply a compact laundry zone, the right utility room ideas will help you make the most of these otherwise underused spaces. From layout planning to electrics and plumbing, this guide covers everything you need to know to design a hardworking, well-planned utility room in your garage.

Is your garage suitable for a utility room?

"Garages offer surprising versatility for utility spaces,” says Gareth Davies, design director at Classic Interiors. “By adding cabinetry and worktops, you can convert overlooked corners into functional spaces for everything from laundry to crafts.”

But before diving into design plans, it’s always a good idea to assess whether your garage is practically suited to house a utility or laundry space. Most attached or integrated garages offer a strong starting point, but a few key checks will help determine what’s realistically achievable:

• The first thing to consider is the condition of the structure. Is it dry, secure and free from damp? If not, you may need to factor in additional insulation, damp proofing and sealing to make the space suitable for regular use.
• Ventilation is another must – especially if you plan to run a tumble dryer – to help manage moisture and airflow.
• Plumbing and electrics also need careful thought. Ideally, your new utility area should be located close to existing water and waste connections, and you’ll need to check the capacity and safety of your electrical setup with a qualified professional.
• Don’t forget floor levels and access. Many garages sit slightly lower than the rest of the house, so raising or levelling the floor may be necessary, along with ensuring safe and convenient access from indoors.
• In most cases, planning permission isn’t required for this type of conversion, but you will need to comply with garage building regulations, particularly if you’re making changes to drainage, electrics or insulation.

Get the basics right: Plumbing, power and ventilation

Unlike traditional rooms within the home, garages often need a bit more work to bring them up to standard for tasks like laundry and cleaning. Garage insulation and heating should be near the top of your list, especially if your garage is unheated or only partially integrated. Insulating external walls and ceilings can go a long way towards regulating temperature, and pairing this with electric panel heaters or underfloor heating will help keep the space warm and comfortable throughout the year.

Utility room lighting is an essential upgrade. Many garages are fitted with a single pendant light or strip fitting, which won’t be enough for a multitasking utility room. Think about layering task and ambient lighting, especially around worktops or sinks.

Next, consider ventilation. Even if your garage has an opening window, it may still benefit from mechanical extraction, particularly if you’re using a vented dryer or running appliances regularly. An in-line extractor or wall-mounted extractor fan can help maintain airflow and protect finishes from moisture over time.

Speaking of finishes, you'll also want to choose finishes that stand up to the demands of the space. Flooring is particularly important in garage-based utility rooms, where exposure to dirt, water and changes in temperature are common. Materials like luxury vinyl tile (LVT), stone plastic composite (SPC), or sealed concrete offer low-maintenance durability and a professional-looking finish.

Finally, think about how you’ll route services like plumbing and electrics. If your initial checks showed you’re not close to existing supplies, now’s the time to bring in a tradesperson for guidance. You may need to conceal pipework behind boxing or within cabinetry to maintain a streamlined look.

Planning your layout around how you'll use the space

A well-designed utility space will work around your lifestyle and your existing garage layout, but it pays to have a clear plan for how you’ll use the space day to day before you start installing cupboards and countertops. Even in a compact garage, zoning the layout for different functions can make all the difference. Think in terms of tasks: where will you wash, dry, sort, and store?

Where space is limited, vertical planning can work wonders. For instance, you can “maximise your available space with an open cupboard which allows you to stack your washing machine and tumble dryer on top of one another,” advises Molly Chandler, designer at Willis & Stone. “Not only does this utilise the full height of the garage, it also allows for easy access and a smoother workflow.”

Consider positioning your appliances at one end of the garage to create a defined laundry zone, leaving the opposite wall free for storage or a worktop where you can sort and fold. If it’s possible to add plumbing nearby, including a sink can be a real bonus – perfect for handwashing or giving muddy boots a quick rinse before they trail through the house. Tall cabinetry is also worth including, offering a tidy home for laundry baskets or ironing boards.

Remember, a utility room in the garage can also double up as a boot room or overflow pantry – the only limit is your creativity. Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL, explains: “The utility/laundry room nowadays generally has more than one purpose. These hybrid rooms serve many functions are a useful way of getting bulky things out of the kitchen. The rooms can still be made to look lovely and functional with the use of tongue and groove boarding, shaker peg rails and lift up seats to store shoes and dog paraphernalia".

Finishes: Lights and final practical touches

A garage utility room doesn’t mean have to feel cold or clinical. The right finishes and lighting can elevate the room from purely functional to genuinely pleasant, making it a space you won’t mind spending time in.

Start with durable, easy-clean materials. Cabinetry in melamine or high-pressure laminate is ideal for withstanding moisture and knocks, while worktops in solid surface or compact laminate offer a robust, low-maintenance option. If you're including a utility sink, opt for stainless steel or ceramic and pair it with quality brassware that can take daily wear.

“High quality brassware tends to justify the investment in durability and longevity,” says Nigel Palmer, head of communications marketing at House of Rohl. “This is especially true in hardworking utility spaces.” Nigel also recommends practical features, such as mixer taps with wide levers that are easy to operate when your hands are full, and pull-down rinses for rinsing buckets or boots.

You should try to get a clear picture of likely utility room costs before committing to any work. Even if you're not planning to sell anytime soon, it's important to feel confident that your investment will deliver practical benefits.

When converting a garage into a new living space, the roof might not be at the top of the list to deal with. Most people focus on functionality and floor plans, but the roof is also important in making sure the finished conversion is warm, dry, and structurally sound.

Many garages were only ever built to store a car, and their roofs weren’t designed to meet the standards required for a habitable building. They’re usually cold, poorly insulated, and in some cases, not structurally suitable for a garage conversion.

Whether you plan to keep the existing roof, upgrade it, or build something entirely new, the right approach will depend on its current condition, your plans, and what’s required by planning rules and building regulations.

Assessing your existing garage roof

It’s best to start by understanding what kind of roof you have – flat or pitched, attached to the house or completely separate? Investigate the general condition by looking for issues like sagging, leaks, damp patches, or daylight coming through the roof covering. Such issues might seem minor, but they can point to hidden problems that must be dealt with.

Flat roofs are common on garages as they’re simple in design, but are prone to water ingress. That doesn’t mean they’re unsuitable for conversion, but they’ll probably need replacing or upgrading. Pitched roofs tend to be more adaptable as they’re easier to insulate and may even offer some extra storage space. But even with pitched roofs, you’ll need to check for missing tiles, rot, or sagging rafters before assuming everything’s ok.

If you’re planning to add dormer windows or rooflights, the roof needs to be structurally capable of accommodating the changes. Headroom is also important and whether there’s enough usable space.

Condensation can cause problems so must be dealt with. Garages are rarely heated and when warm indoor air meets a cold surface, moisture condensates. This can lead to mould growth, rot, and deterioration of structural timbers so any signs of damp or water stains need further investigation.

Making a garage roof comply with regulations

Not all garage roof alterations need planning permission, but some do. If the alterations affect the height, pitch, or appearance of the roof, they might fall outside permitted development rights. This is especially true if the garage is positioned in front of the main elevation, or sits on designated land such as a conservation area.

Altering the height or shape of a roof, or adding dormers are all things that typically need permission. Planning officers will want to see that the new roof is in keeping with the main house as well as the street scene. Matching roof materials and proportions are therefore important when it comes to getting plans approved.

Regardless of whether planning permission is needed, any roof alterations must comply with the latest garage conversion building regulations. This includes structural safety (Approved Document A), energy efficiency (Approved Document L), and even ventilation (Approved Document F). So even if the changes seem minor, they still need to meet the same high standards as the rest of the house.

Options for garage conversion roofing

Once you know the condition of your existing roof and have checked any planning constraints, you can consider your options. In some cases, insulating a roof or re-covering the roof is enough. In others, especially where the structure is poor or the ceiling height is low, it might be better to remove and completely rebuild it.

Raising the roof can provide valuable head room and make the space feel less claustrophobic. Just be aware this is a more complex project and typically needs planning permission.

Swapping a flat roof for a pitched roof enables insulation and water runoff to be improved, and offers a more traditional look. Adding dormers is a great way to bring in natural light and create usable space, but they have to be properly integrated to avoid leaks or structural issues.

When it comes to materials, there’s several choices. Concrete tiles are affordable, but they’re heavy, which might not be suitable for weak roof structures. Clay roof tiles offer a more traditional appearance and are more durable. Metal roofing systems are lightweight but might not fit with a period property. Slate provides a natural and long lasting finish but is expensive. For flat roofs, modern materials like EPDM rubber or fibreglass (GRP) are a better bet than old-fashioned bitumen felt, as they’re more durable, lower maintenance and come with insurance backed guarantees.

Garage conversion insulation and ventilation

Whatever roof type you go with, it needs to be properly insulated. Garage conversion building regulations require U-values of 0.15 W/m²K for new elements and 0.16 W/m²K for upgrades in an existing building. This can be tricky in tight spaces, so the regs offer some wriggle room.

Warm roof construction, where insulation is placed above the rafters, is often the easiest option for insulating flat roofs. It avoids cold bridging and doesn’t reduce headroom. For pitched roofs, mineral wool between the rafters is the cheapest solution, but requires a ventilated cold roof space, usually by adding soffit or tile vents if the existing roof coverings are not being replaced. Ventilation is vital as without it, moisture can get trapped, which can cause long-term defects.

Difficulties when changing a garage conversion roof

There are always a few headaches when it comes to modifying existing garage roofs. Structural support is the main one as garage roofs weren’t designed to carry much weight. So, if you’re adding heavy tiles or building dormers, you’ll probably need structural improvements too.

If that’s not feasible, rebuilding the entire roof might be the only option. Drainage is affected whenever the shape or slope of a roof is changed so gutters might need to be altered, along with underground drainage to pick up any new downpipes.

One of the trickiest details to deal with is where the new roof abuts the existing house wall. If this is a cavity wall, you’ll need to install cavity trays to prevent water from tracking into the structure. This usually involves cutting into the existing brickwork, which can be messy, difficult work that’s expensive.

And then there’s asbestos in garage roofs. If your garage was built before the mid-1990s, the roof might contain asbestos cement sheeting so it can’t just be ripped off. A licensed removal contractor will be needed who will have to follow strict HSE guidance.

Costs of changing roof for a garage conversion

Roofing costs vary widely depending on what you’re doing. Insulating an existing roof might cost just a few thousand pounds, while replacing it with a pitched roof and adding dormers could push the total to £10,000 or more.

Dormer windows alone can cost upwards of £5,000 each once you factor in roof alterations, internal finishes, and weatherproofing. You’ll also need to budget for structural engineering (typically £500 to £1,500), planning application fees (around £250), and possibly asbestos removal – which varies significantly depending on the extent and type of the material. Don’t forget the small things as these add up, and these will bein addition to other garage conversion costs. New flashings, leadwork, cavity trays, or unexpected timber repairs might be needed, so a contingency is always a good idea.

FAQs

Do I need planning permission to change the roof of my garage?

Not always. Minor alterations may be covered under permitted development. But if you’re raising the roof, adding dormers, or building in a conservation area, you’ll probably need permission.

Can I keep the existing roof?

Yes if it’s structurally sound and can be insulated to meet building regs. But most older flat roofs won’t comply without significant upgrades.

What’s the best roof type for a garage conversion?

There’s no universal answer. Pitched roofs offer better insulation and blend well with most homes, but flat roofs can still work in the right circumstances.

Can I do the roofing work myself?

Minor repairs, maybe, but for anything structural, it’s safer to use professionals.

If you are planning a garage conversion, it is worth considering these garage conversion ideas, as well as looking at other options such as half garage conversions if you need to retain storage in addition to extra living space.

If you’re feeling the pinch for space but don’t want to lose all your valuable storage, you might want to consider converting just half of your existing garage into a living space rather than the whole lot.

Half garage conversions are a great way to squeeze extra living space out of your existing footprint without completely giving up your garage storage space. For many homeowners, especially those who use a garage for storing bikes and boxes rather than cars, it can be the ideal compromise – you get a bit more space to live in, while still hanging on to a decent chunk of handy garage storage.

There’s also the practical benefits of converting a garage. Extensions are generally more complex than conversions and can sometimes run into planning hurdles or cost more than expected. But if you only need a bit more room – just enough to work from home, or give the kids a play area – a full conversion can feel like overkill. That’s where the half garage conversion comes in: lower cost, more flexibility, and less disruption. However, like most conversion projects, it’s not without its complications.

Pros and cons of a half garage conversion

The main benefit of a half garage conversion is balance. You still get to keep some garage space while gaining extra living space. If your garage is large enough, the result won’t feel cramped either – especially in a wider double garage, where one half can function as a room and the other a garage.

Another big advantage is reduced garage conversion costs. A similar sized home extension can set you back £30,000 to £40,000 or more. A half garage conversion can potentially come in less than half of that, particularly if you don’t need to relocate services or install expensive features like plumbing or a kitchen. It also gives you future flexibility. If your needs change or you decide to sell up, having part of the garage intact could appeal to buyers who still want storage – or even a small workshop or bike shed.

But there are downsides. You’ll need to carefully plan how the two spaces interact and if one half is for noisy hobbies or storage, soundproofing will become important. Space can also be limited as garages are usually 5 to 6 metres long. After converting half, you’ll be left with a room about 2.5 to 3 metres deep – big enough for a study, but tight for anything larger.

A part conversion doesn’t mean you’ll be able to skip garage conversion building regulations either. Even if you’re only converting half, you’ll need to meet the same standards as you would for a full conversion, including insulation, ventilation, and fire safety.

Planning considerations

In most cases, you won’t need planning permission as garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights – as long as you’re not enlarging the building or making drastic changes to the exterior.

However, if your home is in a conservation area or AONB, or if your council has removed permitted development rights from your property, then you’ll need full planning permission. Similarly, many newer homes have conditions attached to their original planning consent requiring garages to be kept for parking. In these cases, even a half conversion could put you in breach.

If your garage is detached, things get more complicated. Councils are often stricter about detached garages being used as living space, and you might need to prove it’s still ancillary to the main house. It’s therefore essential that you seek planning advice.

Practical considerations

Once you’ve dealt with planning, you’ll need to think carefully about the build. Just like a full conversion, a half garage project needs to meet all the same technical standards, which can throw up a few issues.

Most garages in the UK are built to a much lower spec than habitable rooms. The walls are usually single-skin brick or block, and the floors are uninsulated concrete. That might be fine for storage, but it’s nowhere near warm or comfortable enough for living space. This is where the building regulations come in.

Building regulations applies whether you’re converting the whole garage or just part of it. The key regulations to comply with are structure (Part A), damp proofing (Part C), energy efficiency (Part L), ventilation (Part F), fire safety (Part B), sound insulation (Part E), and services such as electrics and plumbing under (Parts P, G, J). Upgrading and insulating a garage conversion is essential to meet modern thermal performance standards, and fire safety is especially important for attached garages and those partly converted.

To meet Part L, you’ll need to insulate external walls to a U-value of 0.18 W/m²K. This often involves battening out the wall, fitting PIR or mineral wool insulation, and plasterboarding over the top. The floor will also need upgrading, usually with a floating floor system.

In most conversions, the garage door is removed and replaced with a wall and window, but in a half conversion, it might stay. This means you’ll need to build a new internal partition wall between the garage and the room which must be insulated and provide 30 minutes of fire resistance, as garages are classed as high-risk due to the possibility of flammable materials or vehicles.

Access is another issue and if you want to reach the remaining garage space from the living space, you’ll need to install an FD30 fire-rated door, complete with intumescent strips and a door closer.

Noise is also worth considering and if the garage side is used for noisy hobbies such as a workshop, you may want to add acoustic insulation to the partition wall, especially if you’re hoping to use the converted space as a quiet study.

To heat the new room it will need to be connected to the central heating system and have its own radiator, along with heating controls and adequate ventilation like trickle vents or an extractor fan. Exact requirements will depend on use, but for comfort – and to meet regs for indoor air quality, it’s essential that this is done right.

Building regs approval can be obtained via a Building Notice or Full Plans Submission, both requiring inspections and the issue of a completion certificate. Meeting the regs is key as non-compliant conversions can lead to costly delays or legal issues when selling your property. Compliance is covered in more detail in both our garage building regulations and garage conversions building regulations articles.

Half garage conversion costs

Cost is one of the main reasons people opt to covert their garage rather than build an extension. By limiting the conversion to part of the garage, additional savings can be made, especially when compared to building an extension or whole garage conversion ideas.

Expect to pay in the region of £1,000 to £1,200 per square metre, plus VAT for the conversion work. For a small room of about 10m², that puts the total cost somewhere between £9,000 and £15,000, depending on the spec. If you’re creating a simple office or snug with few services, you’ll probably be at the lower end of that range.

To lower costs, you might be tempted to do some of the work yourself. Decorating, basic joinery, and even plaster boarding can all be tackled by confident DIYers. But anything related to electrics, or fire safety must meet building control requirements and will need to be signed off by professionals.

FAQs

Is planning permission needed for a half garage conversion?

Usually not but always so do check. If your home has a condition requiring garage space to be kept for parking, or if permitted development rights have been removed, you may need planning permission.

Does a half garage conversion add value?

It can, especially if you create a home office or extra bedroom. Retaining part of the garage can also be beneficial for buyers who still consider storage as an essential feature.

What if there’s a boiler or consumer unit in the garage?

These must be safely enclosed, with enough ventilation to work safely and access for maintenance.

What if the garage is damp, can it still be converted?

Yes, but the conversion must be properly designed to deal with the damp issues and ensure that any penetrating moisture does not cause long term building defects.

It's worth considering what kind of garage design you want when looking at half garage conversions, especially if you are losing a substantial portion of space that was otherwise used for storage. Ensuring you plan this carefully will mean you avoid making any costly garage conversion mistakes.

The popularity of the garage conversion bedroom is nothing new, yet, in times where moving house often isn't an option, financially, and building a full-blown extension might not be on the cards, it seems to make more sense than ever.

Garage conversions are one of the best ways to add extra space to a house, using what is already there (but often wasted) as something that will really benefit the homeowners, be that for a quiet home office, a playroom or teenage den in which to contain the inevitable mess, or as utility room.

The need for an extra bedroom is at the root of why many people consider extending or moving house yet the answer could just be lurking in your garage. Here, we explain how to turn this often-wasted area into the bedroom of your dreams.

Is a garage conversion bedroom a good idea?

As a structure that was never originally intended to be used as habitable space, there are obviously alterations and upgrades that need to be made in order to transform a garage into bedroom ideas that are warm and comfortable. That said, this is not usually too complicated.

"Converting a garage into a bedroom is a smart way to add living space and value to your home – especially when designed with comfort and functionality in mind," says Alexandra Hull, MD and principal designer at Back to Front Exterior Design.

If this is a project you are considering, here is the expert advice to follow.

1. Ensure you find ways to pull in natural light

Many garages will not feature windows, meaning you will need to find ways to ensure your new bedroom space benefits from natural light.

"Garages often lack windows, so introducing natural light is key," picks up Alexandra Hull. "Luckily garages tend to have a wide aperture where the garage door once was, so this is a great opportunity – just be mindful of the window proportions so it doesn’t look like an obvious conversion."

If you love the idea of being able to access your garden from your new bedroom, you might also like to consider fitting patio doors, as Farook Member, director and home design expert at QS Supplies suggests.

"If feasible, replace the garage door with glazed walling or French doors to illuminate the room and create an opening to the outside," he says.

And don't miss the opportunity to bring in some light from above either.

"If you have a flat roof, roof lights or sun tunnels can also work wonders and get light into internal rooms like a bathroom," says Alexandra Hull.

2. Don't forget the need for privacy

While large window ideas and swathes of bifold or sliding doors are obviously a fantastic way of flooding your new bedroom with natural light, don't forget to think about how you will ensure it still feels private.

Garages are often located at the front of a house and if you don't want to find yourself getting dressed in front of anyone who comes calling at your front door, you need to look into methods of shielding your windows without blocking light.

"For privacy, top-down blinds or frosted glazing both offer the best of both worlds," advises Farook Member.

Consider creating an overhang in front of the new window for the converted garage, or fit wooden shutters or curtains in a sheer fabric.

3. Take steps to make the space cosy

In order to function as a bedroom, you need to look into insulating a garage first.

"Garages aren't built for sleeping comfort, so proper insulation is critical," says Alexandra Hull. "To comply with UK Building Regulations, you’ll need to upgrade the floor, walls, and roof to meet current thermal performance standards (Part L).

"This typically means adding insulated plasterboard to the walls and ceiling and rigid insulation beneath a new floor build-up," continues Alexandra. "A building control inspector will assess whether the space meets the required U-values, so it’s best to consult with them early in the design phase to ensure compliance and avoid costly revisions."

4. Make sure the space is heated properly

Insulating a garage conversion is just one step you can take to ensure it feels warm and cosy – you also need to think about the best ways to heat a garage.

"This is critical in a converted garage space, especially if it was not originally designed to be lived in," explains interior designer Anton Liakhov, founder of roomtery. "When heating the space, underfloor heating is the best option for bedrooms as it is discreet and practical."

Of course you could extend your central heating system into the new space and add conventional radiators, but there are alternatives to think about too, which may be less expensive.

"Wall-mounted electric radiators are an excellent substitute," points out Anton. "You could even source a small, modern electric fire to provide an extra warmth and character in the space."

5. Research the best bedroom flooring options

While selecting the right types of flooring is important whatever you intend on using your garage conversion for, in a space meant for rest and relaxation, extra thought needs to go into selecting something that is both practical and comfortable underfoot. However, before choosing garage conversion flooring, you must first ensure the necessary preparation work has gone into it.

"Garage floors are typically concrete and may be uneven or uninsulated," explains Alexandra Hull. "Start with a good damp-proof membrane, then insulate before laying your chosen flooring. For comfort and warmth, engineered wood, high-quality laminate, or luxury vinyl tile are great options – they’re resilient, stylish and work well over underfloor heating."

"The best choices for garage conversions would be engineered wood or laminate," picks up Anton Liakhov. "They are hardwearing, durable, easy to clean and available in multiple finishes. If you love warmth, luxury vinyl tile would be a great compromise and a budget-friendly option. Carpets will provide the warm feel but will be subject to wear and tear more than wood, so you need to be realistic about floor usage and foot traffic in the room."

6. Look into incorporating an ensuite

Chances are, your garage conversion bedroom is going to be located on the ground floor (unless you are creating it within the upper section of a two storey extension above the garage). What this means is that, from a practical point of view, it is a good idea to incorporate an ensuite bathroom into your design if you want to avoid traipsing up and down the stairs to use the facilities.

While this will inevitably add to your garage conversion costs, it is well worth doing.

"An ensuite can add real convenience, but it comes with plumbing challenges," explains Alexandra Hull. "Try to locate it near existing water and waste connections – stacking it above or next to existing bathrooms can reduce costs and complexity. Don’t forget to account for ventilation to manage moisture levels either."

"Be sure to include provision for waterproofing, ventilation and potential loss of bedroom space," further explains Farook Member. "Add space-efficient fixtures and sliding doors as necessary to optimise use without compromising comfort."

"Before you get too far into the planning phase, you will need to have a plumber and possibly an electrical engineer on board to help you plan layout," adds Anton Liakhov.

6. Keep the peace with soundproofing measures

If you want your bedroom to feel tranquil and to ensure the hustle and bustle of the rest of the house won't disturb your rest, you need to consider installing some soundproofing and noise control measures.

Using acoustic mineral wool in cavity or stud walls that sit between the old garage and the house will help. On solid walls, building a timber frame to take the insulation and boarding over with acoustic plasterboard is a smart move.

If the garage is a close to a road, consider triple glazing to block out traffic noise too.

7. Don't neglect the finishing touches

And, finally, don't forget to furnish and decorate the space in a way that reflects its role as a room meant for rest, comfort and escape. It isn't just about choosing the best bedroom colours to paint the walls – there are other ways to ensure a cocooning feel too.

"Consider ceiling height – garage ceilings can often be lowered to create a cosier feel or left high to add character," points out Alexandra Hull. "Lighting, both natural and artificial, plays a big role in making the space feel welcoming, so plan a layered scheme from the start."

"It's possible to transform your garage into a bedroom just as cosy and stylish as any other part of your home using the right design elements – soft furnishings, layered lighting, and creative storage all help," concludes Farook Member.

FAQs

Does a garage conversion bedroom add value to a house?

While you may not be intending to sell your home any time soon, you will no doubt be keen to ensure that your new garage conversion ideas add value to your property.

The good news is that, done well, a garage conversion can add between 10-15% to the value of your house.

A garage conversion is just one of the ways to add an extra bedroom without extending. You might also like to consider a loft conversion or look at remodelling your existing spaces.

There are certain choices when it comes to final finishes in any home improvement project that require a little more consideration if you want them to stand the test of time – garage conversion flooring being one of them.

While garage conversions are undoubtedly one of the best ways to gain extra space and to add value to a property, the fact that they were not originally constructed to be used as habitable spaces means extra care needs to go into choosing the surface choices, such as walls and floors.

Here, we look at the best types of flooring for garage conversions, as well as the steps you can take to ensure they fit in with what you intend on using the new space for.

Steps to prepare for installing garage conversion flooring

Before getting too carried away with the garage conversion ideas that will take your space from functional to beautiful, there are a few practical considerations to bear in mind.

As part of the conversion, your garage floor should have been properly insulated and damp-proofed – both vital steps for ensuring not only that your flooring feels comfortable underfoot, but also that it won't be affected by moisture or wildly fluctuating temperature levels.

Creating a level threshold between spaces

In many cases, a garage floor will be lower than that of the main house, in which case you will need to look into how to level a floor as well as ways of adding to its height or navigating this change in levels.

Often, adding a damp proof membrane, your insulation and screed, topped with your choice of flooring, will deal with these height differences.

Where there is a bigger level change, creating a suspended timber floor within the conversion is a good way to overcome this.

In cases where the garage conversion will form an open plan space with existing rooms, it is a good idea to match the flooring throughout for a seamless finish.

How to choose garage conversion flooring

The types of flooring you choose for your newly converted garage need to suit the purpose of the space. For example, if you plan on using it as a guest bedroom, the materials and styles you go for are likely to be quite different from someone designing a garage home gym.

That said, whatever you are going to be using the space for, you should focus your attention on selecting something hardwearing and easy to clean.

“When considering flooring for the garage, durability and functionality should be at the forefront," advises Jon Flaningan, head of product at Crucial Trading. "However, that needn’t mean sacrificing style."

Underfloor heating in a garage conversion

Another consideration before deciding on the final floor covering for your garage conversion is whether or not you would like to have underfloor heating installed.

This is a great way to heat a garage conversion as it can be fitted at the same time as the insulation and new screed are being put into place. It also means you have more freedom with how you will use the new room as no wall space will be taken up by radiators.

Not all types of flooring are suitable for use with underfloor heating so take this into account when choosing.

Can you use wooden flooring in a garage conversion?

Wooden flooring is hugely popular in all kinds of spaces within the home, offering visual warmth and being available in a massive range of tones and styles, suitable for all kinds of budgets.

Engineered wooden flooring is a perfect option, for several reasons, as Ian Tomlinson, MD of Chaunceys Timber Flooring explains.

"One of the key advantages is its superior structural stability," begins Ian. "The multi-layer construction, featuring a hardwood top layer bonded to a birch plywood base resists natural expansion and contraction caused by heat and moisture, making it suitable for most environments and over underfloor heating systems. This stability ensures an extremely long-lasting and dependable floor.

"Engineered wood flooring is also easier to install than solid wood," continues Ian. "This flexibility makes it suitable for DIY projects, although professional installation is recommended for the best results. Durability is another strongpoint. High-quality engineered planks have a thick oak top layer that can be sanded and refinished multiple times, ensuring they remain a beautiful feature in your home for years to come."

Is carpet suitable for garage conversions?

If you plan on using your garage conversion as a bedroom, extra living room, snug or even as a home office, you might be wondering whether carpet is a suitable choice. While in many cases it can be, some types of carpet will be better than others.

"Carpet in the garage is a safe bet which will never go out of style, as well as injecting some pattern and colour in what can otherwise be a bland space," says Jodie Hatton, design manager at Brintons. "A cut-pile carpet is the most practical in garages. Other constructions, such as flat weave runners or tufted loop carpet, can become slippery over time as the pile wears with heavy footfall, creating a hazardous surface. Using a cut pile carpet ensures some grip underfoot.

"Where an alternative flooring, like wood or tiles, might make a room feel stark and bare, a soft woven wool carpet, layered with accessories in cashmere, mohair and linen will all work to soften the overall look,” adds Jodie.

Using tiles for garage conversion floors

Tiled floors, including those made from natural stone, porcelain and ceramic, all work well in garage conversions, depending on what you plan on using it for.

In a bedroom, they can feel and appear a little cold, but as a flooring material for a home office, playroom or, of course, bathroom, they are ideal. Plus, they work really well with underfloor heating.

If you are trying to keep your garage conversion costs down, then it is worth noting that ceramic tiles are cheaper than natural stone or porcelain.

Will natural floor coverings work in a garage conversion?

If you are after something really hardwearing and easy to keep clean for your converted garage space, a natural flooring material could be just thing.

"This is a sophisticated way to elevate this often-overlooked space, especially when the garage is being transformed into a home office, gym or creative studio," advises Jon Flanigan. "Hardwearing natural fibres such as sisal, coir and seagrass are particularly well suited to this environment. They offer exceptional strength and resilience underfoot, making them ideal for high-traffic areas where practicality is key.

"Sisal, in particular, strikes a smart balance between toughness and texture, delivering a clean, structured aesthetic with subtle warmth," continues Jon. "For a more rustic, organic feel, coir – with its rich, tactile quality – is a robust choice.

"We recommend opting for darker, grounding tones, such as charcoal, mocha or natural flax, to help disguise marks and to lend a sense of refined utility. Patterns like herringbone or fine bouclé can also introduce visual interest while maintaining a functional, pared-back style."

FAQs

What is the best flooring for a garage conversion home gym?

If, like many others, you are using your garage extension ideas to create a home gym, you need to be looking for a flooring that is durable, non-slip and easy to clean – as well as one that can withstand the weight of heavy gym equipment.

Both rubber flooring as well as vinyl are great options, as are most engineered timbers. There are also some really great products made from a polypropylene top layer that are very worth looking into.

Before settling on a floor covering for your garage conversion, be sure to investigate the type of floor insulation you will need for the space.

When planning or rethinking your garage, size really does matter. It’s not just the size of your car that you need to consider – you also need to factor in things like door clearance, storage needs, and how you’ll use the space day to day.

Whether you're building from scratch or converting a garage into something more usable, understanding the average garage sizes in the UK can help you make the right call. From standard single and double garages to the more compact dimensions often seen in new builds, there’s a lot to weigh up. And if your garage will serve a dual purpose – part storage, part workspace, or a mix of both – getting the size right at the start can save you hassle and expense down the line.

We asked leading UK garage specialists how to work out the garage size that will be the best fit for your lifestyle.

What is the average garage size in the UK?

“A single garage typically ranges in size from around 2.5m x 4.8m up to approximately 3.5m x 6m. Double garages generally span from 5m x 5m to about 6m x 6m. Most newly built garages tend to fall on the smaller end of these ranges,” explains Jamie Swales, owner and director at GarageLux Ltd.

Sizes will inevitably differ depending on the type of property you have. For instance, freestanding garages tend to offer more room to play with, while integrated designs are often more compact or shaped by the layout of your house. As a rule, older homes typically have more generous footprints, whereas modern developments prioritise internal living space, which can leave the garage feeling more of a squeeze.

How your car’s size impacts garage space

According to research by the RAC, Britain’s most popular cars have grown in size by almost a third over the last half-century, with the average width increasing from 1.5 metres in 1965 to 1.8 metres in 2020. This expansion leaves just 15 centimetres of clearance on each side in a standard 2.1-metre-wide garage door, making parking and exiting vehicles increasingly challenging.

While it’s one thing to fit a car into your garage, it’s quite another to be able to open the doors, step out comfortably and move around without feeling boxed in. For instance, “a Ford Focus measures approximately 2 metres wide, including mirrors,” says Jamie Swales. “In terms of length, a similar car is about 4.5 metres long. So, to open the doors on both sides you’ll need an additional 80 to 100 cm of clearance on each side.”

That means a standard single garage can feel tight – especially in newer builds where proportions are often more modest. And this only becomes more of a challenge if you’re planning to park two vehicles. According to Jamie, some so-called double garages offer only just enough room for side-by-side parking, with little clearance in between. So, make sure you triple-check your internal garage dimensions, as a few extra centimetres here and there can make all the difference.

Thing to consider when planning a new garage

"Building a new garage is a great project to undertake. Not only can this boost your property's value by £10,000 but it can also give you loads of extra storage or space for carrying out hobbies, or even for entertaining, as well as storing your car," says Alastair Mayne, COO of Garolla. "But firstly, you'll need to consider permitted development rules and whether any extra rules apply if you live in a listed building or conservation area. Building regulations will also likely need to be met."

Future-proofing your garage starts with a little foresight – and a few extra centimetres in the right places. Opting for a slightly larger footprint at the outset can save you costly extensions or adjustments later down the line. So think about whether you’ll want to add built-in storage, park a second vehicle, or use the space for anything from bike maintenance to muddy boot drop-offs.

Stuart Murray, founder of Retrovintage recommends thinking vertically: “If the garage is going to be used for more than just parking, then you’ll want to factor in extra clearance on all sides, as well as headroom, which is often overlooked.”

You should also consider how your garage connects to the rest of the house or garden. Adding a side access door or incorporating utilities like lighting, sockets, or water supply can instantly elevate your garage’s practicality and potentially make it more of an asset in future home sales.

How much space do you need for a garage conversion?

If you're planning to convert an existing garage, whether into a home gym, office, or extra living space, size and layout should be your starting points.

“To comfortably fit gym equipment and still have enough space to exercise, you’ll need an area of at least 3m x 6m – the size of a typical single garage – dedicated solely to the gym setup,” says Jamie Swales at GarageLux Ltd.

Storage-heavy conversions, such as those doubling up as garage utility rooms will benefit from vertical garage storage ideas and open floor space. Partition walls can help define zones – one for laundry, another for tools, and a clear route through for easy access.

If your garage is on the narrower side, it’s worth measuring the internal width after insulation and plasterboard are installed, as these can shave off precious centimetres. And if the conversion affects your home’s layout – for example, blocking an existing side entrance or altering natural light – check whether you’ll need garage planning permission

What size should your garage door be?

Don’t overlook your garage door – its style, clearance needs, and how it opens can have a big impact on how usable your garage is.

“There isn’t a single ‘standard’ garage door size in the UK – unlike front doors, garage doors are generally made to measure,” explains John Foster, outdoor installation manager at Hillarys. “The best approach is to choose the door type based on your garage’s internal dimensions and requirements. For example, if your garage has limited headroom, a compact roller door is ideal, as it requires minimal overhead space. If you have more room to work with, a sectional door or other styles that don’t need a roll-up box may be more appropriate.”

John also points out that while most garage doors only need internal clearance for fittings like power units or smart motors, some external tweaks – such as relocating a socket or rendering brickwork – might be required. “Ultimately, the priority is to select the style that best fits your space and needs; the door itself is then made to fit your specific opening within manufacturer specifications.”

FAQs

What is the minimum size for a single garage in the UK?

Most single garages in the UK measure around 2.4m wide by 4.9m long. This provides just enough space for a standard car and limited clearance around the sides. However, older properties may offer more generous dimensions, while garages in modern new builds are often narrower to maximise indoor living areas. If you’re using the garage for anything beyond parking – like storage or DIY – consider increasing the width or length if possible.

Can you park an SUV in a standard UK garage?

It depends on the make and model. Many SUVs now exceed 1.9 metres in width (mirrors included) and can be over 4.8 metres long, leaving little room to manoeuvre inside a standard single garage. Parking is possible, but tight, and it may be difficult to fully open doors or access items stored along the walls. Always measure your vehicle carefully and compare it with internal garage dimensions before committing.

How wide should a double garage be?

To fit two cars comfortably, aim for at least 5.5 metres in internal width. This allows enough room to park side by side, with enough space to open doors without bumping into walls or shelving. Anything narrower may still technically count as a double garage, but it could feel cramped in daily use, especially if you also plan to store bikes, bins, or garden tools inside.

Knowing how much value a garage adds can help guide your design choices – particularly if a future sale is on the cards. For inspiration, explore these clever garage extension ideas.

If you’re looking to boost your property’s value, some home improvements deliver a stronger return than others – and a garage conversion is often high on the list. Once seen solely as a space to park the car, the modern garage has evolved. Today’s homeowners are transforming these square metres into utility rooms, fitness studios, workshops, and cleverly concealed storage.

But how much value does a garage add, really? The answer isn’t always clear-cut. Whether you’re still at the stage of considering garage conversion ideas or planning to build a new structure to house your cars, it’s important to consider the key factors – from location and layout to how the space will be used – that determine whether your project will be a smart investment or a costly misstep.

How much value does a garage add to your home?

“A garage can significantly increase a home’s value,” explains Joseph Lane, founder of Mortgage Lane. “But the type of garage, its functionality, and its location are key factors that affect how much value it adds.”

On average, Joseph says, a garage can boost a home’s value by between 5% and 10% – though this figure can vary depending on your location and how practical or versatile the space is. In areas where off-street parking is limited, a garage can become a major selling point. In rural locations, however, where parking is more readily available, the added value may be less pronounced – though it can still add functional appeal for prospective buyers.

What type of garage adds the most value?

Not all garages are equal when it comes to return on investment. According to Joseph Lane, integral garages – those built into the footprint of the house – are typically the most desirable, both in terms of convenience and resale value. These are followed closely by attached garages, which offer easy access and can often be upgraded or converted more cost-effectively.

“Detached garages, while still valuable, tend to add slightly less value because they require additional land and are less convenient,” Joseph explains. That said, if a detached garage is well designed – with insulation, electricity, and thoughtful finishes – it can still command a strong return.

Kevin Keen, contractor and founder of Keen’s Buildings, reinforces this point: “A finished two-car garage with electricity and insulation tends to bring the highest return. In some cases, we’ve seen garages push a home past appraisal benchmarks that otherwise wouldn’t be met.”

The benefits of a multifunctional garage

The more versatile your garage, the greater its potential value. It pays to think beyond parking – garages today are often used as gyms, laundry rooms, workshops or even hobby spaces.

"Multifunctional garages, such as those used for utility rooms, or additional storage, tend to be more valuable than standard single-use designs," Joseph Lane explains. "These multifunctional spaces offer greater flexibility and can attract a broader range of buyers."

Even if your garage doesn’t increase the valuation dramatically, a well-finished, insulated space with electricity can improve the home’s overall appeal – and might even be the feature that clinches the sale.

Does location affect how much value a garage adds?

Unsurprisingly, where you live can have a huge impact on how much value a garage adds. In cities and built-up areas, where on-street parking is scarce or permits are required, a private garage can be a serious asset.

“In urban areas, where parking space is scarce, having a garage can add substantial value,” Joseph Lane confirms, “often making it a key selling point. However, the added value may be less significant in rural areas where parking is more readily available.”

Kevin Keen, agrees, adding: "A single-car garage can boost a home’s resale value by around 5–10%, sometimes more in urban areas where parking is limited. In more rural places, it might not translate directly to value, but it adds utility, which buyers still consider. "

How to maximise your return on a garage build

If you plan on converting an existing garage or building one from scratch, there are a few key ways to maximise your return and boost its long-term value.

Even if you’re not planning a conversion right away, it’s worth future-proofing your garage by installing the right infrastructure from the start. Adding electrics, plumbing and proper insulation during the build phase can make any future work far easier and more cost-effective. Wiring in extra sockets and lighting will provide flexibility down the line, while basic plumbing makes it simpler to add a sink, washing machine or small bathroom if needed.

Installing quality garage flooring is another smart upgrade. Durable, low-maintenance options such as epoxy coatings, sealed concrete or interlocking tiles not only look the part but also signal to potential buyers that the space has been well cared for.

Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of a high quality garage door. “It’s important to invest in a high-quality garage door to ensure garage security and to protect valuable items stored within,” say the experts at Hillarys. This is particularly important in garages that house utility rooms, where expensive appliances and/or tools may be stored.

What should you consider before building a garage?

Before you begin pouring concrete or calling in builders, it’s worth weighing up the costs and potential return. If the construction costs outweigh the likely increase in value – or if the garage ends up taking up valuable garden space – it might not be the right move.

“There are times when building a garage may not be a good investment,” Joseph Lane cautions, “particularly if you live in an area where parking is abundant or if the cost of construction outweighs the potential return.”

Garage planning permission, access, and neighbourhood character should also be factored in before committing to any build.

"A well-designed garage can increase your home’s value, but the key is ensuring it meets the needs of your local market and provides added functionality," concludes Joseph Lane, Founder of Mortgage Lane. "Whether integral, attached, or multifunctional, a garage can be a smart investment with careful planning.”

If you need a playroom, an extra bedroom, or even a self-contained annexe, converting a garage is a great way to extend your home. It’s often cheaper and quicker than building a full extension, but that doesn’t mean it’s a shortcut.

If you want your new space to be safe, comfortable to live in, and legally compliant, the building regulations have to be adhered to. If you ignore them and can’t prove that the work meets the required standards, you could struggle to sell your home. So, before hiring builders or knocking through walls, it’s important to understand which regulations apply and how to comply.

Do garage conversions need building regs approval?

Garage conversions almost always need building regulations approval. If you’re converting a garage into a habitable room like a bedroom, home office, or living room, to ensure it’s safe, energy efficient and structurally sound, the project will fall under the scope of building control.

Very few garage conversions are exempt, although, if you’re just turning the garage into a storage space, without the usual services required for a living space, you might be in the clear. But even then, it’s worth checking with your local building control team just to be sure.

Why garage conversions must comply

Building regulations are not the same as planning permission, and this is a common source of confusion. Planning permission deals with how a building looks and its impact on the surrounding area. Building regulations are focused on making sure a project is built properly and considers things like safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility.

Most garage conversions don’t need planning permission – unless you’re making major changes to the exterior, your home is listed or in a conservation area. But, building regulations approval is almost always required.

Which building regs apply for garage conversions?

Garage conversions are covered by several parts of the regulations, and compliance is explained in the Approved Documents. Here are the key areas to be aware of:

Structural safety – Approved Document A

Garages are often built to a lower standard than habitable buildings and shallow foundations, single-skin walls, or weak roof structures are all common issues.

If you’re altering load-bearing walls or inserting new doors or windows, you’ll need structural details and calculations which can be provided by a structural engineer.

Damp proofing – Approved Document C

Most garage floors are built at ground level and often don’t include proper damp protection. If you’re converting a garage into a habitable room, this will need to be addressed by tanking the walls and installing a new damp-proof membrane (DPM) as part of an insulated floating floor.

Energy efficiency – Approved Document L

Garages are usually cold and uninsulated buildings, and conversions will need to be upgraded to meet current energy efficiency standards. You’ll need to insulate the walls, roof, and floor and install energy efficient windows and doors to meet specific U-value targets.

Ventilation – Approved Document F

Ventilation is essential in any insulated space, particularly a damp garage that’s being converted. To prevent condensation problems, background ventilation is needed, often in the form of trickle vents in windows. If you’re adding a bathroom or kitchen, mechanical extractors will also be needed to remove moisture laden air.

Fire safety – Approved Document B

These days, fire safety is under focus and if your garage is attached to the house, you’ll need 30 minutes of fire separation provided by fire-resistant walls and a self closing fire door. Smoke alarms must also be installed and linked to the existing system. If someone will sleep in the new room, you’ll also need an escape window that meets minimum size requirements.

Sound insulation – Approved Document E

If the garage sits below or beside another room, you will need to add acoustic insulation between the spaces to meet minimum acoustic standards.

Other services – Approved Documents P, G, and J

Electrical work (Part P), plumbing (Part G), and heating systems (Part J) must all comply. Electrical work should be done or signed off by someone registered with a Competent Person Scheme. If you’re extending your central heating system or fitting a new boiler, it must be efficient and properly controlled with a thermostat.

Insulation and energy efficiency for garage conversions

Thermal performance is often the biggest technical challenge when converting a garage as most garages were never designed to be warm or airtight. To meet current standards. you’ll need to upgrade the walls, roof, and floor to meet typical U-value targets;

• Walls: 0.18 W/m²K
• Roof: 0.16 W/m²K
• Floor: 0.18 W/m²K
• Windows and doors: 0.18 W/m²K

For single skin garages, expect to carry out insulating a garage by building an insulated timber of metal frame inside the existing walls, using high-performance rigid insulation like PIR boards. Floors often require a floating floor of insulation over the concrete slab, and roofs will need insulating between and over rafters, depending on whether it’s flat or pitched roof.

Thermal bridging or cold spots, will also need to be minimised with careful detailing to prevent heat loss and condensation risk.

If the garage door is to be removed, the new wall should be insulated to the same standard as the rest of the room. And don’t forget any new windows and doors will need to be relatively high-spec, with low U-values, so they contribute to the overall efficiency.

Fire safety regs for garage conversions

When a building is converted into a living space, the bar for fire safety is raised. If the garage is attached or integral, you’ll need at least 30 minutes fire resistance between it and the main house. This usually means upgrading the separating wall and fitting a proper self closing fire door.

Smoke alarms are a must and should be mains powered, interconnected with the rest of the house, and fitted in any circulation spaces and the new room.

If the converted room will be used for sleeping, an escape window is also required. The clear openable area must be at least 0.33m², with a minimum height and width of 450mm, and the bottom of the opening no higher than 1100mm from the floor.

Getting building control approval for your garage conversions

There are two routes to getting approval: building notice vs full plans approval.

1. Full plans submission

This is the most thorough option and requires detailed plans to be submitted to building control before work starts. They’ll check for compliance and approve the design before any construction work begins. Full plans approval provides peace of mind as you’ll know the work will be completed to the right specification and details.

2. Building notice

This skips the design review and simply notifies building control when work gets underway. The process is convenient and quick, but inevitably riskier without the full plan check, as any non-compliant construction work must be put right.

Whichever route you choose, inspections will happen at key stages, such as before covering up damp proofing details, structural work or insulation upgrades. If everything complies, you’ll get a completion certificate which is vital if you ever want to sell your house, as it proves that the work was done properly.

FAQs

Can a garage be converted without building regulations approval?

Only in rare cases and if the space will be used for living, working, or sleeping, you’ll need approval.

Can the conversion be done as a DIY project?

Yes, but be careful. DIY is fine for cosmetic tasks, but structural changes, electrics, and plumbing are best left to professionals who know the regs, and in some instances, can self certify compliance.

Will a garage conversion add value?

Yes, provided it’s done properly. By adding more habitable floor space, a well-built garage conversion can significantly increase property values.

What happens if the conversion doesn’t comply with regs?

You may be told to put things right, or even undo the work. Non-compliance can also cause serious problems when it comes to selling the house.

Does the Building Safety Act apply to conversion projects?

The Building Safety Act 2022 requires better competence, accountability and record keeping, and even in small projects like garage conversions, key design decisions and compliance with the building regs must be recorded.

A garage conversion can be a brilliant way to add extra space, but only if it’s done right. Building regulations cover everything from structure and insulation, to fire safety and ventilation, and they exist to make sure your new room is safe and comfortable to live in. By working with professionals and not cutting corners, the result will be a space that you can enjoy with peace of mind that it’s a safe place to be.

Wondering how you could use a converted garage? Check out these garage conversion ideas for some inspiration, or these garage extension ideas if you need even more space than you currently have.

Being aware of and understanding how to deal with asbestos in garage roof projects when converting this kind of building is so important if you want to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

If you are carrying out a garage conversion, there are several investigations that you'll need to carry out initially – including determining whether there is any asbestos lurking within the structure.

If you do suspect or find this hazardous material, what should you do and how is it likely to affect your conversion? We reached out to the experts for their top advice.

How to identify asbestos in a garage roof

Before you get too stuck into devising your garage conversion ideas, it is vital that you determine whether or not there is any asbestos lurking in the roof.

While there are some indications that may point to its presence, it is always advisable to get a professional opinion.

"If you suspect your garage roof may have asbestos, there’s only one way of confirming this for sure – have the materials sampled and tested by a professional asbestos company," says David Hanley, founder and director at Crucial Environmental. "It is impossible to tell if a material contains asbestos just by looking at it."

"If we suspect there may be asbestos we would get in a specialist to analyse it and send it off to a lab before we would commence the installation of our interiors," adds Louise Fooks from Garageflex. "We would always suspect there may be asbestos in a roof if the garage was built before 2002."

That said, David Hanley does go on to point out that any of the following could indicate the presence of asbestos:

• The garage roof was constructed before 1999 (in particular during the 1960s and 1970s)
• It is made from corrugated panels
• Moss or lichen growth on the roof (the more moss there is, the older the roof is likely to be)
• Cracks and breaks in panels are common in asbestos roofs (whereas concrete panels are more likely to crumble)

What happens if there is asbestos in your garage roof?

If, after testing has been carried out, it is found that your garage roof does contain asbestos, either in the form of panels or asbestos roof tiles, what next?

"There are a number of options available to you," begins David Hanley. "Choosing the best one depends on a number of factors including the age and condition of your roofing panels. But it generally boils down to a choice between removing and replacing, or encapsulating the roof."

Both of these options are common solutions, but if you are planning on a garage conversion that turns it into a habitable space and it is in need of renovation anyway, removal and replacement is generally preferable.

"This is typically the best way forward if refurbishment or demolition work is planned, it is starting to leak, or if the roof is damaged (for example if it has cracks or holes or shows any other signs of having previously been disturbed)," explains David Hanley. "A specialist asbestos removal company will need to take away the roof carefully so that it doesn’t cause any health hazards during the removal process, where it may release dangerous asbestos fibres. You can then fit a replacement and more modern garage roof.

"If you’re having building work done at the same time, the asbestos company will need to take away the asbestos garage roof before that can begin," adds David.

What does encapsulating a garage roof involve?

If you are keen to avoid completely removing your garage roof, there is another option — encapsulation.

"The other way we would deal with it is by creating a frame around the asbestos area, not touch it or drill into it, but keep it all intact and in place," explains Louise Fooks from Garageflex.

"Encapsulating an asbestos garage roof is usually recommended on a case-by-case basis and is generally carried out if it is more dangerous to remove the asbestos-containing roof materials than to leave it in situ, or where the asbestos has not been disturbed and so is in good enough condition to leave in place," picks up David Hanley.

"Encapsulating stops fibres from being released if the roof deteriorates or becomes damaged over time," he continues.

Do I need an asbestos survey to convert my garage?

If you are buying a house to renovate you will probably be advised to have an asbestos survey carried out to determine where it is.

In the case of garage conversions, if you suspect or have had it confirmed that there is asbestos within the roof, there are several options in terms of surveys.

"There are different types of surveys — management surveys assess the presence and condition of asbestos, while refurbishment/demolition surveys are required before any structural work," explains David Hanley.

If you are working with asbestos specialists, they will be able to advise you on which you will need.

Can you still convert a garage if there is asbestos in the roof?

If you are not planning on carrying out any work that will disturb the roof, there could be instances where doing nothing and leaving well alone will suffice.

"If the asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and there are no planned works, they can be left in situ and managed with an asbestos management plan and regular re-inspection surveys," advises David Hanley.

How much does it cost to remove asbestos from a garage roof?

If you have discovered that there is, indeed, asbestos lurking in your garage roof, you are likely wondering how much it is going to affect your garage conversions costs to have it removed.

"The cost of removing an asbestos garage roof can vary depending on the size of the roof, the condition of the asbestos materials, and the complexity of the removal process," explains David Hanley. "On average, homeowners can expect to pay between £1,000 and £3,000 for professional removal.

"Encapsulation may be cheaper, but costs vary based on the extent of work required," adds David.

FAQs

Can I remove asbestos from a garage roof myself?

This is a really bad idea and the health risks are serious, even if you know how to get rid of rubble — asbestos is a different matter.

"If you suspect your garage roof contains asbestos, do not attempt to disturb it," warns David Hanley. "Contact a professional asbestos surveyor to conduct a thorough inspection and testing. Only a certified professional can safely determine the presence of asbestos and advise you on the best course of action."

It isn't just in buildings such as garages that hazardous materials could be lurking — asbestos in fireplaces is a common discovery in older properties too.

Looking into insulating a garage conversion needs to be top of your to-do list if you are considering turning this often wasted room into habitable living space.

If you are looking for ways to add space and value to your home without building a full-blown extension, a garage conversion could be the perfect way to achieve this. That said, unless you carry out the project carefully, you could be left with a space that isn't fit for purpose.

Here, we explain the steps you need to take when it comes to insulating a garage conversion to turn it into a comfortable room that you can't wait to spend time in.

What type of insulation is best for a garage conversion?

If your garage conversion ideas are for a habitable space, the walls, floor and roof all need to be insulated. The best and easiest way to insulate all of these tends to be with rigid board insulation.

"We use 100mm Kingspan insulation in both the walls and floors, and 120mm Kingspan in the roof space," picks up Jim Allsop, director of Convert Your Garage. "Kingspan is a high-performance rigid insulation board known for its excellent thermal properties, making it ideal for garage conversions where warmth and energy performance are key."

Shop rigid insulation, studwork and tools

What is the best way of insulating garage conversion walls?

"As garages were originally intended as unheated spaces, many feature solid wall constructions," begins Matthew Evans, director of technical and regulatory affairs GB at Kingspan Insulation UK. "These allow high levels of heat loss and will need to be properly insulated if you intend to convert the room into a liveable space."

When it comes insulating a wall, you have two options: external wall insulation, or internal. The advantage of external systems is that they take up no valuable space inside, plus they are less likely to suffer from any thermal bridges.

External wall insulation tends to take the form of boards that are mechanically fixed to the wall before being clad or rendered.

If you are keen to retain the external appearance of your garage or if space is restricted around it, an internal system might be better. They are also easier to fit on a DIY basis.

"The simplest way to add insulation to the walls is with insulated plasterboard fitted to timber battens above the damp proof course," explains Paula Higgins, Chief Executive of HomeOwners Alliance.

"Our typical approach involves timber framing the garage walls with 4"x2" timbers, before carefully housing rigid board insulation between the studs," explains Jim Allsop. "This method ensures a tight fit, reduces thermal bridging and helps achieve a smooth internal finish ready for plasterboarding."

If your garage happens to have been built after around 1920 and is attached to your house, you might find it has cavity walls, in which case, insulation can be in the form of rigid boards, mineral wool or injectable insulation.

Matthew Evans has some words of wisdom to take note of before deciding on an insulation route.

"Before ordering any insulation, it is important to assess the building for any defects which might cause issues," says Matthew. "These include any clear signs of damp or moisture on the walls or issues which could lead to this, including missing pointing, damaged gutters or an absent damp proof course. These must all be carefully assessed before you start any work."

How do you insulate a garage conversion floor?

You will also need to add look into insulating floors in your garage if you want to use it as habitable space.

"When garages are originally planned and built, their hard concrete floors are supposed to weather the wear and tear of DIY, leaking cars and storage units," picks up Matthew Evans. "With some careful preparation and the right solutions, however, it is relatively simple to transform these into a well-insulated floor space for a living area."

"Garage floors are usually lower than the floor in the main house so you should be able to add a damp-proof membrane, insulation and a new screed plus floor covering and end up level with the rest of the house," explains Paula Higgins.

Most garage floors are solid concrete and it is simple to lay rigid insulation board on top of this, over your damp-proof membrane and beneath your screed. If you are adding underfloor heating too, make sure you take final floor levels into consideration.

"Start by laying a damp proof membrane (at least 300 microns thick) above the concrete deck," advises Matthew Evans, who goes on to recommend a rigid board insulation such as Kooltherm K103 Floorboard be installed.

"The boards should be fitted in a break-bonded pattern and tightly butted together," continues Matthew." A 20 mm thickness of Kooltherm K103 should also be fitted vertically around the edge of the floor to the expected height of the floor screed which will be laid above the insulation. This is to help prevent heat loss from thermal bridging at this junction."

If the floor level of your garage is considerably lower than that in your house, you might like to consider building an insulated suspended timber floor.

Do garage conversion roofs need insulating?

The final area to turn your attention to when insulating a garage conversion is the roof. This is done in much the same way as if you were insulating the roof of a house.

"Roofs can account for a lot of heat loss, so if you’re converting your garage, it’s important to ensure it is well insulated," explains Matthew Evans. "In most cases, garage roofs use a flat roof construction.

"When insulating a garage roof, we would always recommend fitting the insulation above the roof deck," continues Matthew. "This is known as a 'warm roof construction.' The advantage of this approach is that it reduces the risk of moisture condensing on the cold building structure and leading to damp issues."

Insulation can be fitted between the joists of both flat and pitched roofs – with rigid boards being the most suitable option for both.

In terms of how much insulation to fit into your roof, you need to be aware of U-values.

"Most garage conversions are classed as an extension of an existing building in the Building Regulations," explains Matthew. "This means the roof will need to achieve a minimum level of thermal performance (a U-value)."

In England this 0.15W/m²K, 0.13W/m²K for Wales and 0.12W/m²K.

"Start by fitting a vapour control layer over the deck, ensuring the layers overlap each other by at least 150 mm and are turned up at the edge of the roof to the height required for your waterproofing system (this should be included within the manufacturer's guidance)," advises Matthew. "A rigid insulation board such as Thermaroof TR26 can then be fitted above the membrane with suitable fixings. The boards should be lightly butted and break-bonded. A 25 mm thickness of the insulation needs to be fitted around the perimeter of the roof to prevent thermal bridges.

"Any rooflights or ventilator kerbs should also be insulated to the same level," continues Matthew. "The roof membrane can then be fitted following manufacturer guidance for the system."

What are the building regulations for garage conversion insulation?

Insulating a garage conversion falls under Approved Document L of the Building Regulations.

"The guidance provides U-values, which are a measure of how thermally effective a thermal element (the roof, walls or floor) is," explains Matthew Evans.

"In England and Wales, where a garage is being converted to become part of the heated building, then the walls must meet the requirements for adding and replacing thermal elements, or the requirements for renovating elements (depending on the work being carried out)," continues Matthew.

FAQs

Does the wall between the garage and existing house need insulating?

The good news here is that you won't need to insulate this wall.

"Since there is no longer such a drastic change in temperature between the cold garage and the warm house, with the aim to keep both spaces comfortably warm, there is no need to insulate the wall between your house and the new garage conversion," confirms Matthew Evans.

While not all garages feature flat roofs, most seem to. If your own garage is one of them, be sure to look into how to insulate a flat roof to ensure you know what you are dealing with.

Avoiding garage conversion mistakes is essential if you want to avoid wasting time and money on a project that doesn't fulfil its potential.

But, when planning a garage conversion, it can be easy to assume there isn't that much to think about. After all, a garage is a solid structure, usually with walls, roof, power and a floor. Surely it's a case of just adding some internal finishes and it's fit for purpose?

The reality is there's a lot more to think about than you might anticipate. We reveal the four main garage conversion mistakes, so that you can proceed with your plans knowing you've carefully considered the potential problems.

Mistake 1. Not understanding planning rules

Before forging ahead with your garage conversion ideas, it's important to understand what you plan to use your garage for will affect the type of planning permission you need.

The changes you make will dictate whether your garage conversion will fall under permitted development, or will require full planning approval. Garage extension ideas for example, which turn your space into a habitable dwelling will need full permission.

"If the conversion is for a home office or gym then there's potentially little intervention required," explains Richard Gill, director at Paul Archer Design, "whereas, if the conversion is to create habitable space or separate dwelling there is much more to consider.

"You don't have an automatic right to convert a garage into a separate dwelling or accommodation," he warns. "If the garage is within the curtilage of a listed property then listed building consent may also be required. It's always best to seek advice from the local planning authority before you start."

However, don't assume that permission won't be granted if you do live in a listed building or conservation area, it can be, but you might need to alter your design for it to be approved.

"In conservation areas or listed building settings the LPA may be happy to grant consent for the garage conversion on the proviso the garage door is retained to preserve the streetscape," explains Richard. "This is often a requirement for mews developments too so should usually be factored into the design."

Mistake 2. Assuming your garage is fit for conversion

If you're considering converting a relatively new garage, the chances are it will be fit for conversion with the necessary upgrades such as insulation, ventilation and potentially adding drainage and plumbing.

However, as when renovating a period property, if your garage is older, you may find it's not quite as strong or sturdy as you first hoped.

"It’s common to assume that the garage structure is fit for purpose when in fact it may not be," warns Adrian Manea, director at Manea Kella. Foundations and roofs being the most common areas where complications can occur.

"On one garage conversion we worked on, we were lucky to retain the foundations and existing brick walls without needing expensive underpinning," explains Adrian. "However, the garage roof required replacement in its entirety and we were not able to salvage much other than a small portion of clay tiles.

"Sometimes you may have to consider the option of knocking down and rebuilding entirely," he confirms. "We would always advise to reuse where possible, however if orientation, or say spatial quality of the garage is substandard, then perhaps the former could be a more viable option."

Mistake 3. Underestimating the loss of internal space

While it's easy to stand in your garage, look around and feel like you have a large blank canvas to work with, the reality is any empty box like space feels big until you start thinking about everything you need to add.

"We would always seek to understand our clients’ spatial requirements from the off," says Adrian Manea. "Garages are not really designed for people and so their conversion requires careful thought and planning."

"Garages typically have restricted head room," adds Richard Gill, "so insulating the floors for example can create issues if the floors need to be raised to accommodate insulation. Especially if there are factors that restrict the raising of the roof above."

The same goes for walls which will likely need plasterboarding and insulating too, bringing everything inwards and reducing the available floorspace. Perhaps you want to knock through and add windows, stud partition walls or even add a false ceiling to try and retain some storage above. Pretty soon, what was once a large empty space can feel cramped and contained if you haven't factored the fabric requirements of the building in your plans.

Mistake 4. Not thinking about alternative storage space

Although part of the reason for converting your garage may be because you are fed of up of it being used as a dumping ground and having no real purpose, it's important to think about what you will do for storage if you do convert it into something else.

“Thinking about how essential your garage is for storage is also key,” confirms Steven George, partner and studio lead at George & Co. “If you’re struggling to think of where you’ll put the items currently stored inside your garage, it may be worth discussing your plans with an architect first.

“You may find they are able to suggest ways of using wasted space within your existing home that will equally fulfil your needs. For example, instead of a garage conversion, it may be that a loft conversion will give you the home office ideas you’re looking for, leaving the garage free for storing garden equipment instead.”

Or, perhaps you could consider extending over a garage instead, leaving the space below free, and allowing you to upgrade your garage storage ideas. However, this will again require careful investigation into the foundation systems you have as you'll need to establish if they are strong enough to support another layer of building.

Considering all your conversion options, not just your garage? If you're after a separate work or gym space, take a look at these garden room ideas instead as they could fit the bill. Or, if your think your basement might be ripe for renovation, find out what's involved in our guide covering how to convert a basement.

A homeowner has split councillors over whether to accept revised plans for a garage conversion that was being used as a business.

Gordon Wake was forced to apply for retrospective planning permission for his garage conversion after it was discovered he was using it as a base for his Domiciliary care company.

Councillors raised concerns over the home being used as a headquarters for a company on what was described as a "quiet cul-de-sac" and were divided on whether to approve the retrospective application.

What were the plans for the garage conversion?

Mr Wake sought to convert an unused garage into a spare room in his house to be used as an office space.

Initially the plans were to be just for habitable purposes before the plans were altered due to COVID-19 struck and Mr Wake used it as a base for his company ‘Severn Sunrise Homecare Ltd’, a Domiciliary care company.

Mr Wake then sought retrospective planning permission to change the use of the white uPVC garage conversion to be used for an office on a temporary basis before then being used as a spare bedroom for himself as he claimed he was suffering mobility issues.

Why was planning permission needed?

Planning permission for garage conversions is not normally needed as long as the work is internal and it does not enlarge the property.

In certain cases, properties may have lost their permitted development rights for garage conversions if you reside in a new housing development or a conservation area, but none of these applied in this situation.

However, as there was a business being operated out of the garage that resulted in an increase in traffic and a disruption was deemed to have been caused to neighbours planning permission was required.

Council raise concerns over parking

Some councillors for Gloucester City Council criticised the application stating using the conversion for an office was inappropriate.

Councillor Andy Lewis highlighted the issues around parking at the property as the company had 27 employees who would take up parking spaces around the property. He added: “It is quite a busy office. It is a quiet cul-de-sac. It shouldn’t have a business there, end of story.”

Quedgeley Town Councillors also stated: "The application is for a conversion of the integral garage into habitable room, but it is clear a business is being operated from this dwelling. This in turn creates serious parking issues, which has blocked pavements and created access issues for pedestrians and neighbours.

"The conversion has not been constructed in accordance with the original planning permission and must be corrected. The application indicates, the room will be used in future as a living space due to a disability, if this is the case the improvements should have been made in line with the DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) regulations which is not evident in this application."

Letter from Mr Wake persuades councillors

Mr Wake responded to these concerns by councillors with a letter saying he had been running his company from the home for four years with no complaints from neighbours.

He explained the company offered "social, palliative and end of life care to the elderly in our immediate area".

He also explained the company has 21 workers, 20 of whom were remote workers and their daughter who works from the converted garage.

He added: "We allow our staff to visit our property, Monday – Friday: 0900 – 1700hrs and only by appointment due to Covid restrictions and to be considerate of our neighbours. The reason staff need to come to the property is for updating the training required to do their jobs and pick up PPE, again that they need to do their jobs, as required by Gloucester County Council and CQC.

"In the future it will become a bedroom, due to a near fatal accident I had some years ago, which resulted in the reconstruction of my legs - as I have gotten older my mobility has deteriorated to the point where at some time I will no longer be able to use stairs."

Councillors approved the application, six members to five.

Alison Hammond has revealed her garage transformation that includes vented floor tiles and a personalised infrared heater.

The 49-year old 'This Morning' TV presenter recently moved house from her family home in Solihull, Birmingham, and has been busy renovating the new house, with one of the first jobs being to rectify the beige garage.

In the star's self-proclaimed "first-ever garage" she wanted something special done, and rather than opting for a garage conversion, she decided to do something unique, which we'll take a look at below.

What work was done?

The white walls were painted anthracite black whilst ribbed vented (allowing oils and liquids to pass through) and rubber black and blue tiles were installed for the flooring.

A custom logo was also installed on the floor, spelling out AH. The wall was also fitted with a personalised infrared heating system bearing the presenter's initials.

A separate area was also created for gym equipment away from a marked zone with the blue tiles for cars to park.

How was it done?

The previous ceramic tiling in the garage was taken out and the garage was cleared out to make way for the transformation.

The work was done in two days by cutting the tiles to fit the exact size of the garage floor and then hammering the tiles into place, which fit together like a jigsaw puzzle.

The infrared heater was then installed onto the wall with wall plugs, heating the garage by transmitting infrared rays around the room in what David Hilton claims is one of the best ways to heat a garage as it "heat objects rather than the air" and so "a good insulation level is not always required".

Hammond 'over the moon' with the work

Alison Hammond joyously stated about the garage transformation "I love it. I absolutely love it" in a video that amassed over 140,000 views on TikTok.

She added: "My first Garage !! I love the before and after pics . Big shout out to @garagestyleltd for coming at short notice, we love it !! You smashed it definitely recommend. Note to self: Do not clutter #garage #paidfor #love.

"What a team !! I absolutely love what the have done smooth , quick and reasonabley priced . Im over the moon."

This Morning co-worker Sian Welby commented: "Omg can I live in it! Better than my flat!"

When it comes to garages, speaking from experience, it can be all to easy to ignore the growing pile of boxes and debris. The proverbial dumping ground for everything from Christmas decorations to DIY kit, it can be hard to justify spending time and expense on the space, especially if you're not considering a garage conversion to turn it into something more habitable.

But with clutter comes chaos and the continual hunt for elusive items. If you've had enough of being asked where something is - and never being able to find it - check out the 14 garage storage ideas below to turn your chaos into calm.

Organise before implementing garage storage ideas

Although it may be tempting to wade in and simply put everything in boxes, out of sight out of mind is not the best approach say the experts.

Marie Bateson, APDO's volunteers director and owner of Cut the Clutter says, "The best method?  Separate your objects by purpose and then start clearing out unwanted items by asking yourself a series of questions - and of course, check if the item actually still works." 

Only then will you see exactly what you need to store and make the best choices. Keen to get going? Here's our selection of functional and practical garage storage ideas.

1. Wall mount racks for your smaller sports kit

"Racking is great for everything from hanging up bikes and scooters (and helmets!) to rucksacks," says Simon Glanville, managing director at A Place for Everything.

But before you proudly display a range of children's bikes that are now all too small, follow Marie's advice.

"It’s only convenient to have a personal sporting goods store in your garage if you actually use the equipment," says Marie. "Rather than having it sit in your garage collecting dust, recycle it if the equipment is worn or damaged, or donate it if it can still be used. Most local recreation centres gladly accept gently used equipment."

Once you've decluttered, make sure you hang a rack, such as this pre-packed Elfa Storage Rack from A Place for Everything, at an appropriate height where users can access their kit safely and easily.

2. Use specialised bike mounts if cycling is your sport

"If your family is keen on cycling, bikes might take up a lot of the garage space," says Victoria Fearnley, founder of Surrey Decluttering. "Consider investing in metal racks that go on the wall that lock leaning bikes (in a vertical position) into place."

As well as freeing up valuable floor space, wall mounted bike racks can prevent damage from bikes being accidentally knocked over, or at worst, run over if one is abandoned on the driveway or garage floor.

Be sure to check you have the right wall fixings and follow the manufacturer's instructions before you install them. For a ready made solution, head to A Place for Everything for this Elfra wall mounted bike rack or try an individual Steadyrack bike rack from Amazon if you only have one bike to secure.

3. Dedicate time to creating a tool storage station

I'll admit to having been so frustrated in the past with unorganised tool boxes, filled with items accumulated over the years that I've been known to throw them out and start again. 

Fast forward to life without a garage, and I've learnt to streamline and only keep the essentials. Marie says it's the first thing we should do if we've got space to create a dedicated tool storage station.

"First sort and categorize. Put any rusty or broken items in the appropriate recycling box and if you find duplicates, consider the need for these," says Marie. "Most of us have two hammers and many screwdrivers.

"If you've got old power tools you never use, do you know someone who would make use of them? You can always borrow them back. Also, thin down those nails and screws."

And don't forget to think of alternatives to recycling unwanted items or paying a visit to the tip. 

"There are artists that use old metal items," adds Marie, "so take a look online to see if your recycling could go to a good cause or artistic group, rather than the local tip."

Then, once you've got your tools organised neatly into piles and categories, tailor your storage to suit. Choose racking systems with racking shelves that can be staggered at different heights, peg mounted style panels for quick access to regularly used small tools such as screwdrivers and spanners, and add hooks, shallow boxes and a worktop.

4. Pop a mini potting shed in one corner

If your garage doubles up as your shed, make good use of your space and use a small wooden cabinet with sturdy work top as a mini potting shed. Fit shelving above for spare pots and packets of seeds and hang smaller trowels and forks from the brackets. 

Choosing a unit with slatted doors, such as this Ashworth Slatted storage unit from Garden Trading will also allow air to circulate around the contents, protecting them from damp or over-heating during warmer summer months. If you are concerned about your garage temperature, make sure you follow best advice on insulating a garage. 

5. Take advantage of cooler temperatures for storing food and drink

Although it may not be the first thing you associate with garage storage ideas, if your garage is accessed from inside your home, it could provide you with storage space for food and drink - and yes, even wine. Wall mount a rack for safety and place it close to the door between the two spaces.

Garages can also be handy locations for an extra fridge or freezer, especially if you like to batch cook or need somewhere to store extra supplies at seasonal times such as Easter and Christmas. This Electriq chest freezer from Appliances Direct  stores up to 16 bags of grocery shopping making it ideal for bulk buying.

Or, if you've recently drawn on utility room ideas to turn yours into a pantry, "and you buy dried ingredients in bulk then you can store them in the garage," suggests Simon Granville, "but you definitely need durable and airtight storage for that – and preferably opt for a modular shelving system where you can store goods off the ground."

6. Limit damp ingress with plastic boxes

"The garage is nearly always going to be a place where dampness can be an issue," says Craig Sammells, UK & Ireland country Manager for Orthex Group, "especially if goods are stored on the floor. So when considering how best to organise your gear - from sports and old toys to tools and even DVDs - it is crucial to use storage designed for the purpose.

"Choose water-resistant storage so you can ensure the contents remains clean and dry. This sort of storage will keep out damp, humidity, dust and insects. It needs to be durable too and resistant to temperatures.

"Stackable storage is another plus-point for areas of the home like the garage," adds Craig, "so you can maximise the footprint. Look for durable storage with sturdy lids. If you’re able to store boxes on shelves then modular stacking storage is useful."

A range of SmartStore storage boxes is available from John Lewis.

7. Add moveable storage to save heavy lifting

If you often need to move heavy tools or equipment around your garage, a trolley with shelves and wheels can be a handy addition. As well as providing a worktop for minor DIY repair jobs, the shelves below can be used to store heavier tools and small machinery which can then be wheeled to the next job as opposed to being carried.

Alternatively, load it with your gardening kit and if you've got a level floor from garage to garden, use it for ease of transportation outdoors instead of a small garden trug or a wheelbarrow.

For a multi storage unit that includes a matching trolley, check out this Bror unit from Ikea. 

8. Clearly label your storage boxes 

"Although you may want to hang onto your child’s first holiday ornament or the Halloween skeleton that’s past its best,," says Marie, "it all takes up space. There’s no need to keep storing decades-old decor just to use it once a year. Downsize your decor and clear out any item that is damaged or hasn’t been used in a few years."

Once you've completed your decluttering, make them easy to access by using semi transparent plastic boxes and print or handwrite corresponding labels. Then, follow Victoria Fearnley's advice and use a shelving system.

"I would definitely recommend shelving versus just stacking boxes," she says. "How likely would you be to return something to the bottom box? Whether you prefer boxes, baskets or drawers, having your items labelled and stored in such a way whereby you can reach them without having to move three other things, will increase your chances of continued organised garage bliss."

9. Creating a recycling hub is a practical garage storage idea

If you regularly find your recycling bins overflowing, create an extra recycling hub as one of your garage storage ideas. With the space to potentially house larger recycling tubs, it can be a smart solution to dealing with the overflow of plastic, glass and paper or cardboard that enters our homes.

If you've got a variety of recycling needs, consider this range of Hallbar bins with lids from Ikea which come in different sizes, giving you the opportunity to stack vertically as well as placing them next to each other in deeper shelving, or on the floor.

10. Build your own garage storage idea with leftover pallets and boxes

Although there's no denying the simplistic stylishness of this Hejne wooden shelving system from Ikea, creating your own version could be easy if you've got plenty of pallets, wood and boxes left over from your renovation project. 

Building your own garage storage idea also gives you scope to define exactly what you need in terms of dimensions. Only have large items? Make the bottom level of shelving larger to store weightier goods safely. Or, if you find yourself the owner of items that are far better hung from hooks, build your storage at a lower level and add peg boards or a series of hooks above. The options are endless.

11. Think vertically for a gardening garage storage idea

"I have found that the biggest un-utilised space amongst my clients, is the vertical space in a garage," says Victoria. 

"There is so much that can be hung from walls with a simple nail or screw; bags of sport equipment, gardening tools and outdoor toys to mention a few."

Or, if you're really planning on looking at garden landscaping ideas as your next big project, designate a full wall and kit yourself out in preparation.

For practicality, make sure the shelving is partially open and keep the area below the unit clear. It'll make cleaning up any dirt or garden debris far easier than emptying shelves or moving heavy storage racks.

12. Don't forget to consider your ceiling as a storage spot

"If your garage already has rafters (in a pitched roof), these make perfect storage for rolled-up outdoor rugs, timber and snow sledges," says Victoria. 

But, if it doesn't and your garage is part of a new self-build project which gives you some control over the height, make sure there's enough head clearance height but keep it within arm's reach so you can add a clever ceiling storage solution such as this Overhead Ceiling Storage Rack from the Garage Store.

It's also important to adhere to health and safety guidelines when installing overhead storage.

Make sure you follow any product notices displaying maximum weight limits and for added peace of mind, consider employing a professional installer to make sure the system is bolted securely to the ceiling.

They will also be able to navigate any existing systems you have in place within your garage, such as up and over garage doors.

13. Add a wood store outside your garage

If you find that logs take up a large part of your garage floor, consider building a separate store outside to allow you to free up space inside. 

However, as wood becomes unusable when wet - a problem if you have a log burning stove, make sure it is well covered but still has room for air to circulate.

Alternatively, if there are other more sheltered areas or spaces for building a dedicated wood store elsewhere, use this space so that there is no obstructions or buildings interfering with vehicle traffic. 

14. Zone around edges to free up floor space

If you still want to use your garage to park your car, it could be that zoning will give you the space you need. 

Instead of randomly stacking shelves and hoping you'll remember where things are, allocate different areas of your garage to certain categories such as sports items, gardening tools and dIY kit. 

With organisation front and centre, you could find yourself with more space than you realise. 

The key to keeping it this way? Regular decluttering sessions.

"Decluttering and organising a garage is not a once-only job, unfortunately," says Victoria Fearnley. 

"Life gets busy and you may dump stuff into the garage that you don't know what to do with or with the intend to deal with it later, but that later never seems to happen and things pile up.

"Regular sessions of just 15-30 minutes every month, or few months, going through anything that's not in its correct, allocated space should do it," she recommends.

Keen to get started on your garage storage ideas but conscious you've got some roof repairs to do first? Find out how much you can expect to pay for garage roof replacement costs.

With the average flat felt garage roof only offering a life expectancy of 10 - 15 years, you might find yourself wondering how much are garage roof replacement costs?

A short life span combined with extreme weather conditions can lead to early wear and tear on many garage roofs, meaning fixing or replacing it can end up being a job you have to take on - especially if you've purchased an older property. But what are garage roof replacement costs and what are your options? 

Here we look at types of roof that you might have on your garage as well as the costs involved for replacing each type.

How much are garage roof replacement costs?

Andy Simms, a building expert from MyBuilder.com, tells us that “ultimately the cost of replacing your garage roof comes down to three things. Does the roof covering need replacing, does the roof structure need replacing, and what materials are you going to use?"

Timing is everything when it comes to the cost of replacing a garage roof. If you spot early signs of cracking on felt, then this is when you should start investigating the issue. Leave it and you risk the water seeping into the supporting timbers below leaving you faced with a much longer and costlier repair.

There are a number of variables you will need to consider when replacing your garage roof. As well as choosing the right material to cover the roof, you need to consider the following:

• Location of your property and number of contractors available in the area
• How easy is the access to the garage roof?
• What is the size and detail of the roof?
• Is the roof flat or pitched?
• How much scaffolding will you need and how long for?
• How many skips will you need to remove the old roof?
• Will you require extra insulation?
• Labour costs
• Guttering and decking boards may be needed depending on the garage use

As costs tend to vary across the UK, each item will need checking with a local supplier using a network such as Mybuilder or Checkatrade. 

However, for essentials such as skips, you can expect to pay upwards of £120 for a midi-skip (4-5 yards) and around £22.50 per metre square for scaffolding. Labour costs will normally be quoted as part of the job if using a reputable builder or supplier.

1. Felt garage roof replacement costs

With garages often built purely for practical reasons, as somewhere to house cars, bikes, tools or as an overflow storage space, it's common for builders to construct them using a flat roof design covered with bitumen felt.

In broad terms, "to renew the felt on a single garage will likely set you back around £400 - £600 including materials," says Andy.  The good news is, you won't be paying for an excessive amount of labour if you choose to replace felt with the same material. A simple felt replacement could be completed in one day with two tradesmen on site.

As well as being fast, cheap and relatively simple to install, it's a lightweight method that can also reduce time and money spent on groundworks. According to the Roofing Association (RA), replacing the felt every 15 years still works out a more cost-effective solution to building thicker walls and deeper foundations.

Although it's commonly assumed issues arise because the roof is flat, it's not always the case. Every flat roof is still required to have a slight pitch to ensure rainwater drains off and the roof complies with BS 6229 and BS 8217. 

Subsequently any problems that do arise tend to be caused not just by rain pooling on the surface, but rather by the combination of water and sunlight causing the felt to become brittle and crack. 

This in turn can lead to leaks which may work their way into the supporting roof timbers causing additional and costly damage.

2. Replacing roof timbers cost

But, if you've not been able to establish if the timbers are damaged and the roofer peels back the felt to find they are, the sum will increase substantially. 

“Replacing the structure of the flat roof on a single garage is likely to cost between £2,000-£4,000," advises Andy. A cost that could rise to around £4,000-£6,000 for a pitched roof.

If you know or discover that the timbers have been damaged by water, the RA also advises you check the roof sheets (normally sheets of plywood). If these need replacing, you can expect to pay an additional £40 per 2.4m x 1.2m sheet.

3. Fibreglass and rubber garage roof replacement costs

Although felt has been the mainstay of flat roofs for many years, there are also a variety of other materials you can consider for your garage roof. The main decision you will need to make is whether the increased life span of an alternative covering outweighs the extra initial outlay.

"There’s a lot of choice when it comes to flat roof coverings," says Andy. "Another roof material that has seen growing popularity in recent years is glass reinforced plastic (GRP), also referred to as fibreglass. This can be two to three times more expensive, but usually comes with a guarantee of 20-25 years." 

If you're using GRP fibreglass to replace your roof, you can expect to pay upwards of around £70 - £100 per square metre for your garage roof replacement costs. This won't include extras such as insulation or replacement of timbers.

Another choice is Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), a durable synthetic rubber that is hardwearing and offers an even longer life-span of 50 years. 

However, at around £45 per square metre it's more expensive to install than felt and some critics say it can be prone to shrinkage or damage from trees branches.

But, as GRP and EPDM suppliers also offer repair kits  you could potentially avoid a full replacement if damage occurs.

There's of course also an environmental upside to choosing an alternative material to felt. As well as lasting longer and potentially looking more aesthetically pleasing, the longer lifespan means they don't need to be replaced as often resulting in less waste disposal of bulk materials.

4. Pitched garage roof replacement costs

Although flat roof materials can be considered for pitched garage roofs, there are also additional options.

Iron metal corrugated sheets were once a common sight on pitched garage roofs, offering a hardwearing, long-lasting option that also dealt admirably with rain and extreme weather conditions. 

Now usually reserved to agriculatural or commercial buildings, the domestic range has expanded to include a variety of other metals, plastic, bitumen and fibre cement. Some are even designed to mimic tiles.

Costs for using corrugated sheets range range from £15-£40 for metal, £20-£25 for fibre cement or £30-£35 for tile-effect sheets. However, if tiles are your preference, be prepared to pay more.

"Replacing standard roof tiles could set you back around £1,500-£2,500," says Andy. Asphalt shingles are an economical alternative, saving a few hundred pounds."

Tile prices alone can range from £10-£35 for concrete tiles up to £40-£60 for slate.

FAQs

Can I replace my garage roof myself?

As replacing a garage roof may involve specialist tools, structural work and involves working at height, it's recommended that you always use a qualified tradesperson to carry out the work.

If the need to replace your garage roof has made you consider whether it's got the potential to be an extra room, check out our garage conversion ideas.

A homeowner has been told they must remove their garage due to it having a "detrimental impact" on the surrounding area.

East Lothian Council rejected retrospective planning permission for the 72m² garage, which numerous neighbours complained about with some stating the garage was of similar size to some of the houses in the area.

The council have told the homeowner to remove the large garage or else they will pursue enforcement action.

72m² garage the size of some neighbouring houses

The homeowner was told they must submit a retrospective planning application for the garage after it was put up without planning permission.

The garage is 9 metres long and 8 metres wide and 3.85 metres high, has a pitched roof and is constructed from a galvanised metal cladding with a timber frame, with two roller shutter doors for vehicles.

The initial application categorised the construction as a "domestic garage," but concerns were voiced by the Prestonpans Community Council due to its floor space of 72m², which was described as being the size of nearby residences.

Garage prompted numerous complaints from neighbours

Neighbours argued planning permission for the garage should be required and were angered over the use of the garage.

The construction of the garage prompted six complaints from neighbours with the structure being called "obtrusive" with the shed's design seemingly being more in keeping for an industrial rather than domestic use.

There were also complaints of strong chemical fumes and loud noises coming from the shed until 9pm at night.

Complainants also argued that if the structure was allowed to remain it could set a precedent for more industrial buildings in residential areas.

Garage deemed "overbearing, intrusive and incongruous"

East Lothian Council has rejected the application as a "form of unauthorised development" and said the garage will have to be torn down.

The planning officer's report stated: "Due to the large size and scale of its galvanised steel finish, the garage appears industrial in character and is not in keeping with the size, scale and finish of the outbuildings in the rear gardens of other houses in the area.

"Instead, the garage building appears an overbearing, intrusive and incongruous feature inappropriate to and out of keeping with its setting in the rear garden of a domestic property.

"Therefore, due to its size, design and material, the garage has a detrimental impact on the character of the house and the character of the surrounding area."

Following the planning permission being refused the homeowner has been given three months to remove the garage or else enforcement action will be taken.

Kenny Orellana, an architect, undertook the task of transforming a car park slot next to a run down garage into an eco-friendly home as he could not afford the house prices in London.

Using YouTube and DIY tutorials, Kenny and his partner, Camille, acquired the knowledge and skills needed to make their self build home for £210,000, saving hundreds of thousands on what they would spend for an existing house.

Their home in East Ham is featured as part of the Open House Festival, taking place from September 6th to 17th, offering an opportunity for the public to explore a diverse array of open properties to seek inspiration.

Couple self built after buying £42k parking slot 

The couple wanted to own a house in London but couldn't afford the London prices so decided the only way they could do it was to build it themselves.

The couple spent £42,000 buying the land in 2016, which used to house a car parking slot, and then spent four years building their London home.

Kenny says: "You don't need to be an architect to do what we did. I guess it is all about trying to learn. We're not trained carpenters or wood-makers or whatever.

"The way how we mastered and learnt was by using a lot of YouTube tutorials, and it took us a long time to do it, but it cost us £210,000 to do the house, which is much cheaper than buying a house of a similar quality and size in London."

Three-storey home with a green roof and wall

Despite being in London, the couple wanted to be close to nature so they designed their home with this in mind.

With a footprint of only 42 square metres, the self build has basement, ground and first floor levels to make the most of what was an otherwise redundant site.

Kenny explained: "We did it because we wanted to own a house in London. And house prices are very expensive and this was probably our only opportunity to own a house."

A green roof, green wall and landscaped garden was an important feature for the couple, to "give nature an opportunity to regenerate" and adapt and grow in tandem with the lives of the occupants inside the home.

Take a look inside the self build in person

The house is featured on the Open House Festival in London, which means you cango and visit the property in person to see how this couple completed their build.

Kenny explained: "Open House gives you the opportunity to present your house because it then allows people to see something they otherwise would not be able to see.

"It's not about being perfect, its not about having a showroom display. It's about people who care for something and they want to share it with other people."

What is the Open House Festival in London?

The Open House Festival offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the city's most captivating architectural spaces.

The two-week celebration has guided tours that will require advance reservations, although for drop-in visits, it's a matter of first-come, first-serve. If you're thinking of going be aware that there could be maximum capacity restrictions in effect at any given time.

The event is completely free, but will only continue running until the 17th of September.

How much does a garage conversion cost? There are 7 main factors that will influence the cost to convert your garage, and paying close attention to each of these will help you to budget accordingly.  

A garage conversion is a brilliant way to make the most of an underutilised space and can add value to your home. They also tend to be much cheaper than building the same sized extension for the same purpose. 

Keep reading to discover what factors you should budget into your project to get the most out of your garage conversion. 

How much does a garage conversion cost?

Garage conversions costs will vary depending on a number of factors but these are the 7 main elements to consider when planning your project: 

1. Size and economies of scale

Generally speaking, the smaller the garage the lower the cost per m2. Subject to the intended purpose - which we’ll consider below - a small garage conversion will use less materials and labour. 

However, economies of scale can be achieved when converting a large double garage. While the overall cost may be higher, a reduction can be achieved in the cost per m2, giving better value for money. 

It's important to remember that you don't have to convert your entire garage. If you want to maintain a storage element, you can partition off a section and convert the remainder. Storage space is valuable in a home so if you can retain what you need and still add a room, you can minimise your costs and achieve two usable spaces.

2. Your location

If you happen to live in or around London, your location can impact labour costs by around 25%. It's good to keep this in mind as you start dreaming about brilliant garage conversion ideas. 

3. The condition of the existing garage

If your existing garage is in a poor state of repair, you may incur additional costs if the contractors have to remedy any issues with the structure. If the works required are extensive then you should get accurate costings from an experienced quantity surveyor. In this scenario, it may be just as cost effective and less hassle to replace your garage with a new extension.

4. The extent of work required

An integrated garage will generally be cheaper to convert than others, as it is already connected to the home, whereas an attached garage will require the connection to be made. Each project will have its own design variations and even an integrated garage with an existing access may need to be converted with a much larger opening if you’re planning to expand an adjacent room. Creating a wide opening in a load-bearing wall will be more expensive than simply adding a door.

5. The function of the new room

The average costs of a garage conversion will largely depend on the purpose of your new space. Depending on its function - home office, bedroom or additional living room - you’ll need to factor in the basic requirements of lighting, electric points and heating. 

However, if you’re seeking to add a utility or bathroom, the cost will go up. You’ll need to take account of the water supply, plumbing and drainage requirements, not to mention the cost of appliances and bathroom suites.

6. Design and quality

Your choice of specification and finish can add thousands to the budget. Flooring choices can range from £25/m2 to over £100/m2. There is a huge cost difference between opting for standard uPVC patio doors and the latest ultra-thin aluminium bifold doors. High-end appliances can add around £2,000 to a small utility, before you even start to consider the vast range of cost options for kitchens and bathrooms.

7. Ancillary storage needs

Once you have completed your conversion you'll need to find space for everything your garage previously housed. Things like gardening tools, bikes and old furniture will need a new home, so you may need to factor in the cost of a secure shed to store those items, if you don’t already have one.

Although there's no denying garage conversion costs will be less than extending your home or moving house, understanding how much you could end up spending will still dictate if it's affordable or not.

After all, while the foundations, walls, floors and roof may already be in place for your garage conversion, turning a practical space into something that's habitable can also involve more work than you might initially realise.

But, whether you're planning a home office, gym or bedroom space, we can help. With some expert advice, here's how to budget for your garage conversions costs so you can avoid any unexpected surprises.

Average garage conversion costs

As a ballpark figure you can expect a typical 16m2 garage conversion to cost on average £15,000. That’s a great amount of extra space for an average cost of £950/m2. Far less than the average cost of £2,200-£3,300/m² you can expect to pay for a new single-storey if you're comparing it with how much does an extension cost.

One of the main factors affecting your garage conversion costs is the type of garage you have and how it's connected to your home.

The cheapest type of garage to convert is an integral garage, as this will already have a connection to the house and is likely to have an electricity supply for lighting. You should budget around £12,500 for these projects, based on average costs.

An attached garage would fall in the middle of the cost scale at an average of £15,000, while a detached garage is the most expensive type to convert at around £20,000.

Factors influencing garage conversion costs

Before you start browsing garage conversion ideas, you may want to dig a little deeper into the factors that will impact your budget. There are a number of different factors ranging from the more general questions surrounding its future use, design considerations and your location, through to specifics such as flooring, insulation and whether or not you will need to add new services to the building.

So, before you start calculating your garage conversion costs, make sure you have explored the following areas:

1. Size and economies of scale

Generally speaking, the smaller the garage the lower the cost per m2. Subject to the intended purpose - which we’ll consider below - a small garage conversion will use less materials and labour.

However, economies of scale can be achieved when converting a large double garage. While the overall cost may be higher, a reduction can be achieved in the cost per m2, giving better value for money.

It's important to remember that you also don't have to convert your entire garage. If you want to maintain a storage element, you can partition off a section and convert the remainder. Storage space is valuable in a home so if you can retain what you need and still add a room, you can minimise your costs and achieve two usable spaces. If not, you'll need to consider alternative garage storage, such as a garden shed, for the items you have in there.

2. The condition of the existing garage

If your existing garage is in a poor state of repair, you may incur additional costs if the contractors have to remedy any issues with the structure. If the works required are extensive then you should get accurate costings from an experienced quantity surveyor. In this scenario, it may be just as cost effective and less hassle to replace your garage with a small house extension idea instead.

3. The extent of work required

An integrated garage will generally be cheaper to convert than others, as it is already connected to the home, whereas an attached garage will require the connection to be made. Each project will have its own design variations and even an integrated garage with an existing access may need to be converted with a much larger opening if you’re planning to expand an adjacent room. Creating a wide opening in a load-bearing wall will be more expensive than simply adding a door.

4. The function of the new room

The average costs of a garage conversion will largely depend on the purpose of your new space. Depending on its function - home office, bedroom or additional living room - you’ll need to factor in the basic requirements of lighting, electric points and heating.

However, if you’re seeking to add a utility or bathroom, the cost will go up. You’ll need to take account of the water supply, plumbing and drainage requirements, not to mention the cost of appliances and bathroom suites. If you want to add a bathroom to this space, you should budget for an additional £2,500- £5,000.

5. Garage flooring expense

Garage flooring is not finished to the same standard you would find in an internal room, so as a minimum you’ll need to budget for digging up the existing floor and laying a new concrete base at a cost of around £1,000. The flooring will also need a suitable damp-proof membrane to satisfy Building Control.

6. Insulating your garage conversion

A typical garage won’t have any insulation, so budget around £1,000 for basic options as insulating a garage conversion well is essential if you want to end up with a warm and cosy space at the end of your hard work.

7. Filling in garage doors and adding new windows 

The cheapest way to fill in the hole left by the garage door would be with blocks/bricks/render to match your existing façade, but this isn’t necessarily the most attractive option. Most conversions will have at least a half wall and new window at the front for aesthetics and maximising light in the new space. You may also opt for a further window or possibly bi-fold patio door costs at the rear, depending on the purpose of the space. Budget around £1,000-£1,500 for a new wall and standard uPVC window.

8. Extending and introducing new services 

Your garage may have an existing electricity supply which will need to be extended to provide sockets and additional lighting. It’s unlikely to have any supply of water or gas, so these services will need to be introduced and the cost will increase depending on how far away the source is in your home. Budget between £1,000 and £4,000 depending on whether you require the basics or full services.

9. Quality of design, finish and fit-out

Your choice of specification and finish can add thousands to the budget. Flooring choices can range from £25/m2 to over £100/m2. There is a huge cost difference between new window costs, and choosing high-end appliances can add around £2,000 to a small utility room idea. This is before you even start to consider the vast range of cost options for kitchens and bathrooms.

You will also need to allow at least £600-£900 for plastering and £500-£750 for painting and decorating unless you choose to tackle the project yourself.

10. Professional and other fees

Generally, unless you are changing the existing building by increasing the size or adding another storey, you won’t need planning permission as the conversion will fall under permitted development rights. However, if you are increasing the size of the garage, or your property is listed or in a conservation area, you will need planning permission from around £200 depending on your local authority. Beware, your garage may also be subject to restrictions under your deeds, which mean the use for parking cannot be changed.

Garage conversion building regulations on the other hand will be required, as the conversion needs to be inspected for fire safety, insulation and ventilation, and structural stability, including a damp-proof course. Unless you are using a contractor that can self-certify the works, you should contact your local authority prior to any works commencing. Budget between £500 and £1,000.

Although you are unlikely to require professional design advice if your plans are simple, such as adding an extra bedroom, if you are looking to reconfigure your home layout using the extra garage space, design professionals can provide a range of options you may not have considered. You can obtain basic design advice from around £300-£400 and plans from around £500 to £1,000.

And finally, don't forget to factor in insurance. If you are using a builder, check that they have the necessary insurance in place. If you are planning on doing the work yourself, you must contact your own home insurance provider as you will need conversion insurance to be covered for the work.

FAQ

Are garage conversion costs worth the expense? 

A garage conversion is the most cost-effective way of adding space to your home. But you'll also need to look at how much value does a garage add, and consider all the factors why it may or may not be worth you converting your space.

While a garage conversion will add value (depending on what you turn the space into), it can come down to whether you are looking for a value-add to your experience of living in your home, or monetary value.

However, there's no denying there are benefits to opting for a garage conversion such as retaining all the garden space you may lose by building an extension; the works are contained and less disruptive and adding something larger such as a garage extension idea, could provide extra annexe living too.

But, do be aware that if demand for parking spaces in your area is high and you don't have alternative off-road parking, converting your garage could actually devalue your home.

While garage conversion costs don't necessarily double if you go up two storeys, there are other practical elements involved such as understanding if your garage foundations will be sufficient to support another storey. Find out more in our expert guide to extending over a garage before you draw a line under your final budget.

If you own a shed you’ll need to know how to felt a shed roof. Over time the sun, rain and wind will cause your roof felt to break down and start letting water in, which if left, can cause the wood to rot and your shed’s contents to get damp and eventually mouldy. 

Replacing the roof felt is a quick and relatively simple DIY job that won’t cost too much or take too long. Combine a new look leak-free roof with the best exterior wood paint and you’ll have a watertight shed that will last. 

Here we reveal the tools and techniques you’ll need to make felting a shed roof happen.  

How to felt a shed roof: A step-by step guide 

 To get the job done you are going to need roof felt like this Green Polyester Shed Roofing Felt from Amazon, nails like these Diall Galvanised Clout nails from B&Q, a hammer, a sharp Stanley knife, tape measure and a ladder. 

1. Prepare your felt 

Pick a dry day and before you start, unroll your roof felt on your patio or lawn to help flatten it out. Now is a good time to measure up and cut the lengths you’ll need for the job (you will probably need three). Measure the roof panel and add around 150-200mm to the overall length. 

Now measure the roof felt and cut with a straight edge – a spare scrap of wood will do – and a Stanley knife. Repeat for each length. Add a weight on each end to help flatten. 

2. Remove the old felt 

If replacing the old felt on a roof the first step is to remove it. You’ll need a step ladder to access the roof. First remove the fascia boards (also known as barge boards). These are the timber strips that hold down the felt at each end of the roof.  

Start by pulling up any loose roof felt. If needed, use a knife to make a cut to get started. For more stubborn areas use a wide paint scraper/putty knife like the DEKTON Professional Scraper from Amazon to get under the felt.

Once all the felt has been removed use a claw hammer to get rid of all the remaining nails.  

3. Secure the felt

Now roll up the first strip and place on the roof and unroll. Move into position and make sure that it overhangs both ends by around 100mm. Get a nail – start in one corner on the edge nearest the top of the roof apex – and fix the felt into place.

Pull the other end to straighten and pull the felt tight so that it lies flat. Fix into place with a nail and then place a nail around every 15cm. Repeat this on the other side. Finally, lay the last strip over the apex of the roof, pull to tighten and straighten and nail into place, making sure it overlaps on top of the felt that has already been laid on either side.

4. Fix edges and finish  

Make a vertical slit in the overhanging part of the roof felt on the apex of the roof. This will allow you to fold it neatly and overlap. Nail in the fascia board to secure the overlap in place. Trim any excess with a knife. Finally, fold the felt under the edges and nail into place.  

Can you felt over old felt on a shed? 

Yes you can but it's not recommended. If you are replacing your shed roof felt it is typically because the old felt has broken down and is letting water in, not giving the protection it should. Removing the old felt will also allow you to see if there is any damage to the roof that needs fixing or replacing.  

How much felt will I need for my shed? 

This will obviously depend on the size of your shed, so before you start you will need to measure up. If you have a traditional apex shed you will have two roof panels, simply measure the length and width of one panel. As an example an 8 x 6 foot shed will typically have a roof panel that is approx 8 foot long and just under 4 feet wide – or approximately 2.4m x 1.1m.

Shed roof felt comes in metric measurements and is typically one metre wide and 10m in length, so covers 10m2. With overlap you will need approximately 8m2 (or one roll) to cover the roof of an 8 x 6 feet shed. Or in simpler terms you will need three strips – 2.5m x 1m – to cover the roof. 

Knowing how to add space without extending is key to ensuring you can continue to enjoy your existing home without spending a fortune on building an extension or starting the search for a new, bigger property.

We all know how easy it is to fill the space we live in — growing families, an expanding menagerie of pets perhaps, a hobby that involves a large collection of items requiring storage and just the general day-to-day accumulation of 'stuff' all take up space. And to add to the spacial pressure on our homes there is the fact that more and more of us are now working from home, meaning a whole new room or space to be used as an office has to be conjured up from somewhere too. 

In an ideal world we’d all have the funds, time and energy to add new extensions or splash out on a bigger and better home. The reality, on the other hand, is that for many of us, this isn’t an option.

Thankfully there are plenty of ways to add more physical space, as well as creating the illusion of more space, without the need for planning permission, new foundations or extensive and expensive building work.

Here, we look at the very best ways to expand your home without having to sacrifice garden space or increase its overall footprint. 

1. Convert your loft

Loft conversions are, for many, the ideal way to gain the extra space they need without extending the footprint of their home — plus it’s a job which might fall under Permitted Development, meaning planning permission is not required.

A loft conversion can be the perfect spot for an extra bedroom (or two), a home office or a hobby or playroom. But, before you start planning a loft conversion you need to check that your loft is suitable. 

There are several things that could stand in the way of you converting your loft, including:

• Roof structure: Check whether you have a cut roof, or trussed. Most houses built before 1960 will have a cut roof, while those built later tend to have trussed. Cut roofs are easier to convert and use rafters, joists and purlins that leave most of the triangular space below free. Trussed roofs are easily identifiable through the W-shaped trusses running through the cross section of the roof. While both roof types can be converted, the costs involved with a trussed roof will be higher. 
• Head height: 2.4m tends to be a comfortable height once the new floor and ceiling covering are taken into account.
• Obstructions: Chimney stacks and water tanks are common items that can get in the way of loft conversions. You will need to think of a new spot to house the water tank, or swap it for an alternative like a mains-fed combi boiler. The removal of a chimney stack will require the help of a structural engineer and good builder. 

2. Remodel your existing spaces

Is the existing layout of your home making the most of the space you have available? Perhaps your current home is divided into lots of smaller rooms that don’t perform in the way you need them too. 

Knocking down internal walls is one of the most popular ways to re-order spaces — opening up dark, cramped rooms to one another in order to create light, open spaces that can be used in many different ways.

Likewise, building new internal walls can sometimes give you the more private spaces you need — perhaps a utility room, home office or en suite for example.

Walls don’t have to span the entire room either — a wall that goes just halfway across a space can act more as a divide, while a room divider that doubles up as a storage unit can turn a corner or one end of a room into a flexible new space, perhaps a playroom or study, or even a reading nook. 

3. Eliminate wasted space

Look around your home and assess exactly what you are currently using each space for. While there will be certain rooms and areas that are frequently in use and perform their intended purpose, it is likely that there are others which are largely redundant. 

“Before diving into an extension I always recommend my clients consider the space they already have, and if it could be better used,” says Dan Stewart, senior architect at ADG. “Often, spaces within our homes have become ‘dead’ and unused, and a fresh pair of eyes from your architect can reveal the potential.”

Perhaps it is an unnecessarily large hallway that serves a rarely used front or side door, a separate dining room that’s only used at Christmas, or even a corner of a room piled high with stuff.

Identify any wasted areas and look at how they could be used more effectively — could that hall become a home office, the dining room a snug or spare bedroom, that lonely corner a stylish spot for some new built-in storage?

4. Convert the garage

How many of us actually use our garages for storing our cars? Incorporating an attached garage into the rest of your home is the ideal way to add space.

Garage conversions can usually be carried out under Permitted Development, plus they create little mess in your home while they are underway. You will still need to comply with building regulations however, upgrading elements such as the insulation. 

Depending on the size of the garage, it can also work well to retain the front portion of the garage for a car or as storage, incorporating the rear section into the home — many a useful utility room or home office has been created in this way. This option also negates the need to replace the garage door with new windows and doors, although creates less usable space. 

5. Reconsider your furniture

The style and size of furniture you choose, as well as the way in which you position it, can have a big impact, both visually and physically on the space available. 

Consider proportion. Simple furniture and pieces that are lower to the ground make a room feel larger than bulky items.

While it can be tempting to push all your furniture up against the walls in order to gain maximum space in the middle of it all, this can actually have the opposite effect. 

“Remove items around four walls and only use two, bringing items of furniture into the centre of the room instead,” advises Alex Main, Director at The Main Company.

Arranging furniture in this way can create separate little zones within a room, or pathways that direct people through or around the room.

6. Add new glazed openings

Swapping small windows for large, full-height windows and doors could have a huge effect on the sense of space in your home. 

“A fantastic way to add space into your home without having to extend is to replace one or two large external walls with virtually frameless bifold or sliding patio doors,” says Tyan Schofield, MD at Thames Valley Window Company. “This will dramatically increase the amount of light in your home, which will add brightness and create an illusion of space and openness. 

"This specifically works well in communal areas such as the kitchen or living room where the transition between indoor and outdoor living can be seamless.” 

Bringing in light from above can also increase the feeling of space in your home. 

“Consider installing rooflights or a roof lantern and, if you are able, think about removing the flat ceiling and creating an angled, vaulted ceiling,” suggests architect Dan Stewart. “The additional light will create an uplifting sense of space and the indirect sunlight creates a much better working environment for home offices.” 

7. Create a broken plan layout

Open plan living does not always work well where space is at a premium — splitting the spaces up into smaller areas, each with their own purpose, can actually make far better use of the floor area you have available.

“Zoning a space with a broken plan layout can help create a sense of space as you can see right through, but this approach still retains useful walls or spaces for storage, such as banquette seating, bookshelves, and internal windows with wall space below that you can have storage against,” says Jo Dyson of Mae House Design.

8. Build in hidden storage

Efficient storage is a must if you want to increase the sense of space in your home. Clutter has no place in a house where space is at a premium. If you think you have exhausted your home’s storage potential already, it might be time to think again — there are lots of clever built-in storage ideas out there.  

“Bespoke built-in storage utilises every inch of space that it occupies,” says Jo Dyson of Mae House Design. “It makes a space seem bigger if you paint it the same colour as the walls or paint the woodwork a slightly darker shade than the walls to still create a seamless, but interesting space as it’s a shade darker. 

“Go floor to ceiling with built-in wardrobes so you can store as much as possible and hide it behind sliding doors. Sliding doors are better as they don’t eat into the space by swinging open.”

Other clever storage solutions could include:

• Window seats: Not only will a window seat provide a handy additional spot to perch, but fit one with a lift up lid, or with cupboards or drawers beneath for useful storage.
• Staircase storage: Although an understairs cupboard might be nothing new, the latest wave of clever staircase storage is definitely worth taking a look at — from pull-out cupboards that ascend in size with the staircase, to drawers hidden within the treads themselves.
• Bathroom storage: Reclaim bathroom floor space by ensuring your sanitaryware doubles up as storage. In addition to basin vanity units, incorporate some under bath storage too.
• Space around windows and doors: Above and around doorways is the ideal spot to include storage — either recessed or in the form of simple shelves.

9. Use your lighting to visually expand a space

Lighting design does not only change the mood of a room — it can also change its perceived size. 

It is important not to incorporate too much accent lighting by highlighting everything in the room — far better to instead focus on just the main features as this will really enhance the space visually.

Rather than sticking to just one, unflattering overhead light, use different light sources to illuminate different areas of the room. A cosy warm lamp or two next to an armchair or to light up a dull corner, low-hanging pendants over a dining table, or concealed LEDs in shelving, for example.

10. Decorate to make spaces feel bigger

An all-white or neutral colour scheme really can work wonders in small spaces — and there are lots of different shades of white and neutrals out there, from warm to bright. If you are scared of things looking too sterile, just include plenty of texture through upholstery and warm wood finishes elsewhere.

Draw the eye upwards by using vertical internal timber cladding, high level shelving or windows, or standout pendant lights. 

Don't forget the old mirror trick either — strategically placed mirrors can reflect light, a great view or create the illusion of a room that is twice the length it really is.

Laura and Luke Thomas were living in London and knew they wanted to start a family somewhere a bit greener, where they could also generate another income. 

They found their perfect family home in Dorset which came with a stone-built annex/garage at the back which was bursting with potential for a garage conversion — to create a unique holiday let. 

Originally, the building was an old flax shop and was being used mainly as a garage. "It was very dusty and grubby with big double wooden doors at the front and an old stable floor," begins Luke. "As you walked through the main area there was an old worktop with a workbench and old tools. The final room on the ground floor was essentially a log store and upstairs was just a loft with sets of ladders and all sorts of stuff."

Here, the couple explain how they set about sensitively converting this listed building.

Converting a listed garage into a holiday let

Laura did some Google searches and the couple found various architects and eventually chose Lydia and Lawrence from Design Storey. "They really understood that we wanted to hold onto as much of the character of this place as we could and accentuate the features rather than try to make it something it’s not," says Luke.

From finding Design Storey and getting the drawings together, it took two years before the Thomases got planning permission, with the listed building consent being a hurdle.

"Originally the idea was to have a big panoramic window in the main living area to look out at the amazing view, but the conservation officer was not in favour of this, so we changed the design to be two slim but tall windows instead," Luke explains. 

"We were really pleased with that in the end because you get little snapshots of the view through the space. It actually also makes two small extra seats. Lydia and Lawrence were brilliant at adjusting the drawings and resubmitting and eventually we got to a good place with it."

Mixing main contractors with DIY

At the beginning of the project Luke and Laura had the builders in who installed the steelwork and put the stud walls up on the first floor, took the old cedar shingles off, re-felted and relaid it with reclaimed slates. 

"After that, we did most of it ourselves DIY. It was tricky at times because our son was born a few months into the project," remembers Luke. "When the builders were on site, my wife was going into labour, which was quite interesting!

"One thing I discovered was that I was much more capable of doing things than I thought I was, with a bit of research and figuring things out as I went along. We took up all of the Staffordshire Blue Pavers and meticulously cleaned them with an acid bath plus lots and lots of scrubbing before putting insulation down and relaying."

Coming up with clever conversion solutions

Because the walls are two foot thick in some places Luke and Laura weren’t able to put in services or insulation in the walls, so they insulated between the floor rafters and Lydia and Lawrence came up with the idea of adding wainscotting on the ground floor to hide everything in. It was a great solution to working with an old building and maximising efficiency.

They asked a local carpenter to create the studwork for the panelling using 2” x 2” timbers, then Luke cut the 60mm Celotex to fit between the timbers, insulating the garage, before adding the bead and butt panelling to it. All of the ledges had to be scribed to the wonky stonework, which was another time-consuming but extremely satisfying job as it now hugs and follows the line of the stonework.

"With a limited space and a limited budget it really does force you to come up with solutions and garage conversion ideas you wouldn’t otherwise need to, but they’re the bits that people always comment on!," Luke says.

So how do they feel now it is all finished? "We’re really pleased with it. In the end we were able to strike a balance between keeping the character and modernising it," comments Luke. "Juggling being new parents and having building work going on was hard but it was very much a team effort.

"Towards the end of the project there were certain things to address because of the style of the building and the size of the bedrooms – which are really quite small – like, how do we get storage in here? How do we make it so people can hang their clothes up when they’re staying here?

"This was a really enjoyable, albeit difficult, process and we enjoyed the problem-solving part of it . We’d love to do another project one day — but it might not be for a few years!"

If you're considering a garage conversion, the chances are you're on the hunt for garage conversion ideas and inspiration on how you can transform your space into something that resembles a domestic dwelling, rather than a store room.

The positive news is that with the right design and structure in place, it can be easy to turn your garage into a whole host of different rooms. From spare bedrooms through to utility rooms or games rooms, the open floor plan of most garages can make them easy to adapt into something far more practical and stylish.

Harbouring bigger dreams? As our ideas will show, with a strong build and design team there's no limit to what you can achieve. Be it a full annexe or even a new home, thinking outside the box is key when finalising your garage conversion ideas.

1. Find a domestic garage plot and create a new home

The most ambitious garage conversion idea we're sharing, this residential house in London designed by Paul Archer Design and Hardman Structural Engineers, was built on the site of a domestic garage that was originally enclosed by brick walls on three quarters of the boundary.

Keeping most of the brickwork in place, the new home was cited neatly behind them, using a structure made from concrete, timber and brick cladding. The ground floor is mainly hidden from street view, while the first floor was glad in brick to tie in with the existing brick. A clever aluminium shadow gap was used to identify old and new, while perforated brick detailing and recessed glazing allow light in while retaining privacy.

Secret courtyards, skylights, large patio doors and an open plan ground floor layout with stepped internal levels all add to the feeling of space on the ground floor, while at night, the first floor perforated brick comes to life on the street as the internal lights create a warm and welcoming glow.

While it may only be 90m2, this three level home goes to show that the sky really is the limit when it comes to how adventurous your garage conversion ideas can be.

2. Add a glazed link to connect your garage to your home

Although we've highlighted the glazed connecting link of this garage conversion idea, it's just one of many features that brought this project to our attention, and which led the client to still say how four years after completion, "we all absolutely love the completed project, it still takes our breath away every time we go."

Ian Hazard, the architect responsible for the project explains what was involved.

"The property was originally built by the family of the client in the 1970’s and is held in a trust for the ongoing use of the current family members, and future generations. As a mid 20th century building, the property was in need of renovation to address issues relating to the un-insulated building fabric. The outdated accommodation on the site also required re-configuration and re-conceptualisation in order that the property function more comfortably as a modern and contemporary home and get together for the extended family.

"The design response for the project prioritised the re-use of the existing redundant garage on the site," explains Ian, "by upgrading the building fabric and physically connecting it to the existing dwelling. This approach, in the form of a contemporary glazed link between the two existing buildings, kept the required new architectural interventions on the site to a minimum.

"The upgraded garage became the master bedroom, and the new glass link extension provides the dining space, acting as a true social connection between the two existing buildings, whilst providing framed panoramic views."

3. Turn a connected garage into an extra living room

If you love the idea of a snug, but don't have the space to create one in your home, a garage conversion can be a great way to make room for snug room ideas or an extra cosy living room idea.

And it works particularly well as a garage conversion idea when your garage is connected to the main home via an internal door. Providing an easy route in and out of your new space, you could also block up the existing garage doors if they face the street and open up the rear with patio doors, allowing light and easy access to the outdoors in the warmer summer months.

4. Use a garage conversion idea to create a home office

A new home office comes high on the list of garage conversion ideas. Even with hybrid working seeing a partial return to the office, the cry for home working space still exists and garage conversions offer so much in the way of home office design.

Garages are usually located away from the main living areas meaning you can also create a self-contained entrance if your work involves holding meetings in your office space.

A simple floorplan also offers opportunities to include features such as plenty of built-in storage and the chance to add an internal stud wall with a door to create kitchen areas, or even a small bathroom if you have sufficient access to plumbing and drainage.

5. Turn a garage block into a habitable and stylish annexe

Another of our larger garage conversion ideas, this sympathetic annexe was the result of the transformation of an existing run-down garage and stabling block into accommodation for the extended family, and a place to house the family's collection of books, antique furniture and art.

Architect, Elena Kella from Manea Kella explains how the garage was transformed.

"In its basic shape and openings, the new building echoes the original structure. The existing roof has been wholly removed and a new timber frame made from Douglas fir now spans the entire length of the new house.

"Using traditional construction techniques and locally sourced materials we were able to transform the garage and stabling block into a double height space and inside there is a set of interconnected spaces, some small, some double-height, which create a sense of volume and light in a compact plan," she explains.

"The consistent use of wood throughout the interiors offers warmth, texture and charm, and the Japanese Ryokan was a source of inspiration for the interiors," adds Elena. "These establishments are renowned for being beautifully simple and elegant, offering guests respite from busy urban life, which matched the brief for this project."

As the garage mainly faces the public highway, garden screening ideas including planting helped create privacy, while Siberian Larch shutters were added to the main windows so they can be closed when the building isn't in use. Acting as type of camouflage, they turn the exterior into something more resembling a barn conversion too.

6. Soundproof your garage and turn into into a hobby space

If you, or a family member is seriously into making music, it's not always ideal to have it blasting through the rest of the home. An empty garage could therefore be a great place to consider relocating them too – as long as you put the right soundproofing and noise control measures in place.

In the same way as soundproofing a loft conversion can prevent noise entering and escaping, it's wise to tackle the job on every possible level if this will be the main use of your garage conversion idea. Insulate well and investigate adding acoustic ceiling and wall panels such as these Acoustic Silk Panels from Amazon to further dampen the noise.

7. Extend your kitchen using a garage conversion

Kitchen extensions are usually high on homeowner's wish lists and using your garage for one means you can add to your home's useable living space without actually altering the footprint of your property.

If your garage is adjacent to your kitchen, knocking down internal walls between the two in order to create one larger family kitchen or kitchen/diner is a great idea – and also overcomes the long, narrow issues often associated with garages.

You can increase the amount of light entering the new space by incorporating a roof lantern or a run of rooflights – the perfect way to flood the space with bright, pure light and one that will also make it feel more spacious.

8. Or, use your garage conversion as a utility room

Another way to put garages that sit adjacent to kitchens to good use is to repurpose them as a utility room or bootility room. Handy for keeping laundry and noisy appliances out of the way, they can also be a must for those with pets or who enjoy the outdoors. Include plenty of shoe racks and a dog shower idea or sink if possible to prevent any dirt transferring into the rest of your home.

If space permits and the garage is connected to the house via an internal door, adding plumbing and drainage for sinks or laundry appliances could also present an opportunity to add a downstairs toilet idea if you don't already have one.

9. Extend upwards as part of your garage conversion ideas

If you are keen to add even more space to your home as part of your garage conversion, then it is worth considering extending over a garage when you convert it. This can help to create balance between the ground and first floor space.

Incorporate an en-suite and this can make a great self-contained guest bedroom. But if you are looking to add an extra bedroom for a member of the family, you will need to consider the layout of the top floor and how the new bedroom will be accessed from the upper level so it feels connected to the rest of the house.

10. Get fit with a gym garage conversion idea

Struggling to get to the gym or looking for alternative ways to keep fit during the colder months? Or feel that journey to the gym is just too far?

Whilst it is feasible to position workout equipment elsewhere in your house it tends to take up a lot of space – which is why creating a home gym in a garage conversion is a great idea.

Having a dedicated space will allow you to kit out the space with hard-wearing, slip-resistant flooring that may not be suited to other areas of your home. You could also consider adding an air conditioning unit to keep it cool during the summer – especially if you have knocked through a rear wall and added patio doors to give you a garden view all year round.

11. Keep toys and clutter under control with a garage conversion playroom

Garage conversions often make brilliant playrooms. Keeping the newly refurbished space partially open to an adjacent kitchen makes it possible to supervise younger children while carrying out day-to-day jobs.

Make sure you add loads of built-in storage options for toys, but also think about the overall design so that you create a room with longevity that can be used as a teenage den when they're older, or even transformed into an adult snug once they've flown the nest.

12. Turn a pitched roof garage into a guest room with mezzanine storage space

Depending on the existing layout of your property, you may wish to convert your garage into an additional bedroom. Garage conversions are ideal locations for guest accommodation as they tend to be away from the hustle and bustle and feel nicely separate.

With enough available height, you could also add in a mezzanine level with built in storage for items such as Christmas decorations that you may have previously had stored in the garage.

13. Add a new dimension to film night with a cinema garage conversion idea

A home cinema garage conversion is a brilliant idea for lots of reasons. Firstly, the conversion gives you the opportunity to pack in plenty of soundproofing – meaning the whole house need not be subjected to whatever film has taken your fancy.

Secondly, you are starting from scratch, meaning you can include as many power outlets as your new entertainment system will require. You can also tailor the lighting and think about furniture placement with a blank canvas mindset.

14. Create a garage bar conversion for evening use but get your lighting right

If your garage conversion is ear-marked as an evening entertaining space, you may decide that you don't want to go to the hassle of knocking through walls to create windows, instead preferring to block up your garage doors with a wall and single door entrance.

However, getting the lighting design inside your garage right will still be important in order to set the mood and make sure the space is still safe and practical to use.

While table lamps, standard lamps and wall lights can all help create an ambience, some overhead LED daylight panels, such as these Ultra Slim Ceiling Daylight Panels from Amazon, could be a potential option that will make the space more practical if it is needed for use during the daytime.

Of course, taking on a garage conversion project will involve money, so find out what you can expect to pay in our guide to garage conversion costs, and if your garage is a separate building that's not attached to your home and offers scope to turn it into something bigger, find out if you need planning permission for an annexe or turn your dreams of a larger home into reality with these garage extension ideas.

Although a garage conversion may feel like an easy way to extend your living space, there's more to it than simply decluttering and adding some internal walls and new flooring.

But, with many garages under utilised, and the cost of extensions rising, using the space you already have can certainly hold appeal, and be a quicker way of adding more rooms.

In this guide to garage conversions, we explain exactly what's involved so you can proceed with confidence when converting your garage into extra floorspace.

Garage conversion or extension?

Whether you have an integral or detached garage, unlike some larger extensions, garage conversion ideas can often be exempt from needing planning permission.

“Garage conversions can be remarkably versatile, and actually extremely affordable,” says Andy Simms, construction consultant at MyBuilder.com. “Depending on where the garage is located in comparison to the rest of your rooms, they can provide a multitude of great spaces, as well as providing extra storage.”

Garage conversions also have other benefits when compared to extensions. They are usually quicker and easier to carry out, and while this doesn’t mean garage conversion costs are always cheap, they are most certainly one of the more cost-effective ways to add some square meterage to your home.

Not using up valuable garden space can also be a benefit of a garage conversion. And, a lot of the work can take place without it affecting your existing home – even if you have to add an access point from the house into the garage.

Generally, the decision on garage conversion or extension will come down to a variety of reasons, including how much space you need, whether your garage is fit for purpose, or if demolishing it and adding a new side extension may be a better option.

However, before getting carried away, it’s important to check whether your garage is suitable for conversion.

“You’ll need to consider how the garage is constructed and what you want to use it for,” says Jude Tugman, founder of Architect Your Home, “as these criteria will impact on the cost of the conversion.” In addition, the changes you make may also affect whether your garage conversion will still fall under Permitted Development or will require full planning approval, a subject we’ll cover in more detail later on.

Are your foundations and roof suitable?

It’s common to think that as your garage has walls and a roof, it will be strong enough to work as a converted room. But this isn’t always the case.

“You shouldn’t assume that the existing foundations are adequate,” says Steven George, partner and studio lead at George & Co. “Trial holes should be carried out at the bringing of the project to inspect the existing foundations, as they will need to take the additional load.

“Otherwise you’ll have to underpin the existing foundations,” he explains, “which is labour intensive, and expensive. Before starting any garage conversion, you’ll need to establish how the existing garage is constructed, particularly if you are looking to add an infill wall in place of your garage door.”

An infill wall is usually one of the key parts of a garage conversion, offering the change to replace the garage doors with a wall that often comprises a window, or entry door.

The most common approach is to infill in a way that matches the home, either by building in matching bricks, or building in block and matching the exterior cladding. Adding a door or window can also help ease the load on the foundations, as well as bringing in natural light.

If the existing concrete slab is 200mm or over, this is generally adequate to extend straight up with new brickwork. If the existing slab is not sufficient however, there are typically two options. Either a 1m footing will have to be dug and filled with concrete, or a 140mm x 100mm concrete lintel can be added into the wall on both sides below ground level. The new infill wall can then be built on top of that.

Establishing the strength and types of foundations you have is even more important if you are considering extending over a garage to add a second storey, as this greatly increases the load exerting pressure on your foundations. You’ll also need to consider further building regulations for thermal and sound insulation if you decide to add an additional storey to your garage conversion.

Will you need to replace your garage roof?

Although you may assume you need to factor in budget for garage conversion roofing into your plan, it’s not always the case, say the experts.

“In the first instance, an inspection is wise to see how long a life your garage roof has left,” says Steven George. “If you discover that water is lying in pools on a flat roof, then this has the potential to cause problems in the new space beneath. The roof will then of course need repairing, and the underlying fabric of the structure checking for damage.

“Occasionally it is also necessary to replace the entire roof,” confirms Steven. “However, this is sometimes a welcome discovery – swapping a flat roof for a pitched design for example, can help tie the new space in with the rest of the house and leave you with a more aesthetically pleasing result.”

Understanding windows and door requirements

As part of the building regulation requirements, under under approved document Part B, you may be required to install a window or door that acts as a fire escape route when converting a garage.

Building control officer, Paul Hymers, explains.

“Attached garage conversions are usually accessed by a hallway door, providing a safe means of escape to outside, but if you can only enter this new room from another (outer) room, it defines it as an inner room.

“Because a fire in the outer room could prevent your escape, the inner room will need an alternative escape route," advises Paul. "This can be a door or window, and so the role is often performed by the window or door replacing the garage doors at the front. But, escape windows have minimum criteria," he notes. "If your inner room is a kitchen, en suite, cloakroom WC or bathroom then it doesn’t need an alternative exit.”

In half garage conversions, where only part of the garage is being used as habitable space, the wall separating the two should also be fire-rated to 30 minutes.

Any window installed is also subject to certain criteria, including its height from the floor, how it opens and the size of the openable section. As a rule, the width and height should be no less than 450mm, it must be a maximum of 1100mm from the floor level, have an openable area of 0.33m2 at the bottom of the window, and generally be side-hung.

However, do bear in mind that windows within garage conversions under Permitted Development are largely only allowed in the section replacing the garage door. Any new windows added to the side may require a planning application.

Insulation for your garage conversion

When it comes to the insulation requirements for your garage conversion, build expert, Mark Stevenson covers this in more detail in our guide to insulating a garage conversion.

However, it helps to understand that you will potentially need to insulate in three different places. Your walls, floor and roof may all need insulation in order to keep your new space warm. This will all impact your timeframe and budget, and could also impact the overall floor space you are left with if you need to add internal wall insulation, or alter the floor or ceiling heights.

Adding external wall insulation for example, is not usually recommended in garage conversions as it can cause issues externally with wall thicknesses.

"You will need to consider if you are able to afford to lose space when you start adding in insulation thicknesses to the walls and floor," confirms Steven George.

“Will the ceiling height need to be raised if you’re increasing the floor level? In general, you need around 2.2-2.4m of headroom once the floor has been raised to 15cm above the external ground level," he adds. This can also influence your purchasing when deciding which garage conversion flooring to install.

What ventilation guidelines will you need to follow?

"Home ventilation is vital for a garage conversion, otherwise you're just building a box that's going to sweat." says Mike Taylor from Taylor + Co Architects.

Installing an openable window is an easy way to purge ventilation. The opening should have an area of at least 1:20 of the floor area of the room it serves, whereas bathroom windows can be any openable size. Trickle vents should also be incorporated into the window framework to provide background ventilation.

If your garage already has air bricks, these should not be covered up, and be mindful of building regulations Part F regarding ventilation if your garage conversion will include a bathroom, kitchen or utility room, as you'll likely need an extractor unit to ensure moist air can be removed from the room.

Plumbing and electrical changes

Garages often house electricity meters and distribution boards, making it easy to install electrics there. However, new lights, sockets and electric radiators could put additional strain on older consumer units, which may mean you need to add new consumer unit costs to your budget.. If you're installing wiring for a detached garage, it can be run through an underground channel.

If the garage is to be another habitable room in your house, its own miniature circuit breaker is probably enough, although you should consider adding at least one new 20-amp circuit. Or, if necessary, an additional mains supply can be installed, but this will also require the installation of a separate consumer unit.

Whether or not you need plumbing will come down to how your new space will be used. While living rooms or games room ideas won't necessarily need a water supply, “if you are considering using your garage conversion for a utility room or garage conversion bedroom with ensuite, you’ll firstly need to look if there is any drainage locally to the garage,” says Steven George.

A drainage survey should be carried out to locate the main outflows for water (as well as the waste pipe if you're installing a WC). Consider how far the garage is from the mains and waste pipes of the main house as the further the distance, the more your costs will increase on both a labour and materials perspective.

Planning and building regulations when converting a garage

Unlike planning permission for garages that are new, which do require full planning permission, the majority of integral garage conversions tend to fall under Permitted Development, meaning planning permission is not required.

In fact, according to architectural specialists Resi, only 10% of garage conversions will require planning permission. However, it is still best to check with your local authority, as there are number of occasions when you still might fall under certain jurisdiction.

1. Stand-alone vs integral: If your garage if you are converting a stand-alone garage as opposed to an integral one, then you may have to apply for a change of use
2. Conservation areas and listed buildings: If you live in either, you will almost certainly need planning permission.
3. Planning conditions: You should also check for any planning conditions attached to the house or garage when it was originally constructed, as in some cases garages will be required to remain as spaces for parking. If there are conditions, an application will need to be submitted to remove them.
4. Garages on new-build estates: “If you are also considering converting a garage on a new build, you will also need to speak to your local authority,” says Steven George. “In general, planning departments remove permitted development rights on new build housing estates, meaning you would also need to apply for planning permission to convert a garage.”

Even if the conversion falls under Permitted Development, applying for a Lawful Development Certificate is a good idea, particularly if you aim to re-mortgage or sell the house in the future, as it will protect you under any changes that may occur post conversion.

Building regulations are required and here’s why

A garage conversion will most certainly need building regulations approval. As previously mentioned, you will need to adhere to the various approved documents relating to thermal performance, acoustics, fire safety and ventilation.

A building notice or full plans application will need to be submitted to building control as part of this process. Your local building control department will then register the conversion and carry out inspections throughout the project, then issue the final certificate on completion.

Design and build options for your garage conversion

The type of professionals you need to hire for a garage conversion will largely depend on the size and scope of your project, and how many changes you need to make to the exterior and interior.

If you need to make changes to the foundations or create new openings, you will almost certainly need the services of a structural engineer, but when it comes to other professionals you do have options.

Do I need an architect?

Whether you choose to hire an architect, or an architectural technologist or not, is very much a personal decision that should be based on the scale and complexity of the project, although there are of course benefits to calling in expert help and a fresh set of eyes.

“Architects will look at the house as a whole, helping to create a holistic design that will focus on the need for the work as well as ensuring it dovetails with your existing home,” says Steven George. “ An interior designer can also be a great option, as much of the work often revolves around internal detailing and storage ideas.”

A design professional will also have useful trade contacts and will have experience in dealing with Building Control which could help to make the process more seamless and avoid any delays.

DIY vs builder

Some people choose to come up with a design themselves and carry out a DIY garage conversion – a good option for those with limited funds and the spare time to get stuck in, although you will need to use certified electricians and plumbers where required.

But, if your DIY skills are more limited, you will need to find a builder to take on the work – especially if you are considering adding another storey to your garage conversion.

Another option is to use a garage conversion specialist. These companies usually have a wealth of experience and will be able to deal with any planning issues surrounding garage conversions, as well as building regulations.

But, as with all of the above options, be sure to view completed projects and speak to past clients before finalising your design and build team for your garage conversion.

Choosing your external finishes

The best converted garages usually look like part of the rest of your house, the exception being partial garage conversions. These are where the front of the garage remains unchanged (both internally and externally), while the rear section of the garage is incorporated into the house. This allows you to retain some garage storage space, while gaining a little extra living space.

Depending on the design of your existing home, you may be keen to ensure the materials used for the cladding and roof (where there is one), windows and doors match or tie-in with those on the main house to create a seamless finish.

Alternatively, you might wish to adopt a contemporary take on the design and highlight the garage as a new element of the house, choosing metal cladding or rendering to contrast with brick.

Opting for a new external finish can also help overcome any issues surrounding how the old opening for the garage door is concealed, as a badly bricked up opening is a design disaster.

“Blockwork and render are usually the easiest solution for this,” says Steven George, “as you can hide the original structure with the cement render. Brickwork should really be toothed into the existing, otherwise you will see the bricks butt joint, and this is a little bit unsightly.”

Timings for your garage conversion

The length of time your garage conversion will take comes down to the level of work involved.

According to Andy Simms, if you've established your foundations and roof don’t need any work, “a simple garage conversion can be turned around in a relatively quick time period – sometimes just two or three weeks, and once the garage is empty, the work tends to begin quite unobtrusively.”

Of course, each project is different, and if you do need work done to the roof or foundations you will need to add this onto the timescale. Likewise if your garage conversion forms part of your plans for renovating a house, you’ll need to factor the work into the overall schedule.

FAQs

When shouldn't you convert a garage?

While a garage conversion is, in the majority of cases, a brilliant way to add space and value to your home, there are certain instances where it might not be a viable option. Think about the following before you proceed:

• Will the work mean one or more existing rooms will frequently be rendered unusable by building work and will these rooms impact too much on your daily life?
• Remember that you will be held responsible for the legality of work done on your property. Time and energy will be required supervising work, being present to allow tradespeople access and making design and other decisions. Can you allocate time for the project?
• Might the cost of reinforcing foundations, replacing a garage roof, or applying for planning permission mean you are paying more than you expected, and facing a longer project time that makes the project unfeasible?

Will a garage conversion add value to your home?

Increasing your home’s usable floor area will likely boost its cash value, and a garage conversion can add as much as 20%, say Checkatrade, depending on what it’s converted into, with extra bedrooms with en-suites adding the most value.

But, it will also come down to your location and what the housing market in your area looks like. Ask yourself does your home really need extra room? Do you have a drive to park on, or is there copious amounts of on-road parking? What is the price ceiling in your area?

These factors will affect how attractive your home is to potential buyers and may affect the overall amount that converting a garage adds to the value of your home. Be sure to discuss your plans with a local estate agent to see if your plans will add value and if so how much so that you can ensure your budget doesn’t exceed any potential return on your investment.

Still not entirely sure what you could do with the space if you converted your garage? If your garage is on the smaller side, why not take the opportunity to indulge in a bespoke boot room for keeping muddy shoes and pets away from hallways? Or, if your garage is attached to your kitchen, could a back kitchen or pantry give you the extra space and storage you crave?