Does your garage sit unused or underutilised? Many people will treat their garage as a dumping ground or simply ignore it, but it’s important square-footage on your property which should be used to its full potential. A garage conversion is always an option for you if you don’t actually use it to store your car in, giving your property a whole new space.
With this in mind, this month we wanted to explore the ways you can extend your property with garage conversion ideas. We’ll walk you through some of the more popular options, as well as some of the practical issues you’ll need to consider.
Ideas for Garage Conversions
Kitchen Extension
Ever wanted more room in your kitchen for storage and preparation? By converting your garage into an extension for your kitchen (if the two are already adjoined) you can open up much more space. It could even become the new hub of your home for the family with a breakfast bar or a seated eating area.
Office Space
With a smaller or narrower garage, it might not be possible to fit a vehicle inside, but it might just be perfect for your brand new home working area through a garage conversion. Since you only need room for a desk, computer and possibly some bookshelves, a private little office area could be ideal if you do any work from home.
Children’s Playroom
If the kids have taken over the house with their toys and games, what better way to give them their own space than with a garage conversion? You can keep all their things in one space and give them their own out-of-the-way area to allow you to unwind in other areas of the home in peace.
Cinema Room
Going out is overrated when you can have your own private, comfy cinema room. Converting your garage means you get to use the space for a dedicated home entertainment centre – it could also be a games room if that’s more suited to your hobbies.
Is planning permission needed for a garage conversion?
A lot depends on the type of garage you have and the type of property you have. Generally, the conversion of an internal garage on a normal property could be classed as permitted development, meaning no planning permission is needed. However, some circumstances where you might need to apply for planning permission include:
- If you’re in a conservation area
- If your property is a listed building
- If your modern home has restricted covenants in place
- If your garage is detached
It’s always best to consult an expert before starting any work to ensure you’re complying with legal obligations – this helps to avoid disappointment and cost further down the line.
Do building regulations still apply for a garage conversion?
Building regulations most definitely apply with any garage conversion as you’re changing the use of the space in a definitive way. Whether you choose to notify the local authority a few days before the work begins or you have the structural plans drawn up and approved by building control well in advance will depend on just how complex your conversion is.
A professional team of garage conversion experts, such as the team here at Kingsmead Conversions, will be able to advise and assist you on this as soon as you’re ready to begin the journey of converting your space.
Garage conversions from Kingsmead Conversions
Here at Kingsmead Conversions, we understand that it might seem a daunting and complex task to undertake, but we work with you at every stage to ensure your garage conversion is done to professional standards through a team of trained, qualified specialists.
We’ll guide you through each stage, from choosing the purpose of your converted space to navigating the legal aspects of the work. You can rely on our decades of experience for garage conversions in Oxford, Bedford, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to discuss your individual plans and we’ll be happy to help.