Making a Dual Purpose Garage

When you’re a homeowner who is working with limited square footage, one of your options for optimizing space is by creating a dual purpose garage. Even if you prefer parking your cars there, it could be possible to do so while still using the room for something else, especially if you have one that is built to hold two or more cars. It could be something that is as easy as adding or removing some cabinets and shelves, or it could take some more detailed remodeling. 

Your Ideas

Sit down with pen and paper and start jotting down ideas for how to create a dual purpose garage. Are you interested in having a work shop? You may be able to have a small to medium-sized one alongside the space where you park your car. Or perhaps you’d like to have a recreation area for playing ping-pong or even pool, depending on how much space you have. Constructing a bedroom or other type of living space is usually only possible if you have an extra large two-car garage or one that is built to fit three cars. Keep your ideas within reasonable limits. 

Planning the Project

Once you’ve decided on what you want to do, the next step is the planning phase. When you’re creating a dual purpose garage, your first consideration should always be safety. You don’t want part of it to be a children’s play room when you still park your car in the other area, unless you create a strong, solid wall between the two areas. The same goes for creating a work room area if you’re going to be using tools that create sparks, or if you’re going to be doing any welding. Go over every detail and make safety the top priority. And always check with your city or county to make sure that what you want to do will be allowed. Once you get this figured out, start making your plans. If your plans are fairly elaborate, it’s advisable to hire a professional to help with the blueprints.

Getting the Work Done

Whether you create a dual purpose garage yourself or hire a professional to do it depends on what you’re planning. If your plans include creating a separation wall and adding such things as carpeting and extra outlets, you’ll probably want the help of a professional. If you’re simply adding more shelves and cabinets for extra storage, you might be able to do it by yourself. If you do need to hire a contractor, be sure they are fully licensed and insured, and check their references. 

A dual purpose garage can be a great way to maximize the space in your home, and to possibly have that extra room or shop you’ve always wanted. Approach the task responsibly, and you should be satisfied with the results.