Garage conversions are among the most common ways homeowners look to add value to their property, and they’re increasing in popularity. In 2023, there was a 180% increase in garage-to-office conversions compared to 2019. This trend was driven largely by the change in working habits brought about by the pandemic, but garage conversions remain a hugely popular way to reinvent a home. So, if you’re looking for your next renovation project, you’re in luck because, in this article, we’ll be walking you through our top seven garage conversion ideas. From home gyms to your ideal workspace, read on to get inspired.
Our Top 7 Garage Conversion Ideas
While the idea of a garage conversion can be hugely appealing, it’s often difficult to know where to start. From obtaining the necessary permissions to setting a realistic budget, there’s much more to consider than first meets the eye. That’s why it can be hugely beneficial to recruit the support of professionals when taking on a garage conversion. So, if you’re looking for architects in Northampton, our team of architectural technicians at Amico is expertly placed to help you create a space exactly as you envision it.
- Do You Need Planning Permission For A Garage Conversion?
- How Much Is A Garage Conversion?
- Will A Garage Conversion Add Value?
- Garage Conversion Inspiration
Do You Need Planning Permission For A Garage Conversion?
In most cases, you won’t need planning permission to convert a garage because they are considered permitted developments, provided the building meets certain requirements. However, those living in a designated area, such as a Conservation Area, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or National Park, will usually be required to obtain planning permission. If you live in a listed building, you will need to seek Listed Building Consent. Check out our article on how to get planning permission if you think you might need approval from your local authority.
Sometimes, restrictions are put in place when a property is constructed, which means the garage must be retained as a place to park. If that’s the case for your property, you’ll need to submit an application to have the restriction removed. Additionally, if you’re converting a detached garage, as opposed to an integral one, you’re more likely to require planning permission as outbuildings must follow different criteria to extensions.
As with any construction project, it’s best to consult with your local authority to check where you stand before beginning any building work. We recommend obtaining a lawful development certificate to confirm to you, the local authority, and any future buyers of your property that your garage conversion was carried out in accordance with the correct planning procedures.
If you have any questions regarding obtaining planning permission or any other approvals, do not hesitate to contact our team. With years of experience, we would happily assess your project and let you know what is required to get started.
How Much Is A Garage Conversion?
The cost of your garage conversion depends on a wide range of factors, including size, location, and quality. However, according to Checkatrade, the average cost of a garage conversion in 2024 is around £10,000-£20,000.
| Garage type | Cost + VAT (Range low – high) | Average cost |
|---|---|---|
| Garage conversion cost | £10,000 – £20,000 | £15,000 |
| Integral garage conversion cost | £10,000 – £14,000 | £12,000 |
| Attached garage conversion cost | £10,000 – £20,000 | £15,000 |
| Detached garage conversion cost | £15,000 – £25,000 | £20,000 |
| Double garage conversion cost (Based on 36m squared) | £20,500 (integral) – £45,000 (detached) | £32,750 |
| Carport to garage conversion cost | £10,500 – £22,000 | £16,250 |
| Partial garage conversion cost | £5,500 – £8,500 | £7,000 |
| DIY garage conversion cost | £4,500 – £10,000 | £7,250 |
These prices are based on a 16m squared conversion, including basic fit-out costs.
Attached Garage Conversion
Attached garages are conjoined with the house at the side or rear. They’re the most common garage type in the UK and the simplest to convert. Because they’re already attached to the home, they usually run on the same electricity supply with some basic instalments already. Also, any new pipework can easily be run from the main house. Those with an attached garage have the option to knock down the dividing wall and create an open-plan space. The average attached garage conversion will cost between £10,000-£20,000.
Integral Garage Conversion
Like attached garages, integral garages are already connected to the home, but they slot into the profile of a property rather than joining at the side or rear. They’re the cheapest to convert and can easily be integrated because they’re already within the property. The average integral garage conversion costs between £10,000-£14,000.
Detached Garage Conversion
Garages that aren’t attached to the home are the hardest and most expensive to convert because they don’t run on the same water, gas, and electric supply. Building trenches for these lines and pipework is often labour-intensive. Detached garages sometimes require a reinforced frame, further increasing conversion costs. Despite this, a detached garage is a great way to create a space away from the home for working, exercising, relaxing, or any other way you plan to use your space. The average detached garage conversion will cost between £15,000 and £25,000.
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Will A Garage Conversion Add Value?
Converting your garage will add value to your home because you’re adding valuable extra living space to the property. Garage conversions are generally less expensive than extensions and quicker to complete, so they’re great value for money when compared to other value-boosting renovations.
It’s important to budget appropriately so you spend less on the conversion than the amount of value it adds to the property. Our architectural technicians are highly experienced in garage conversions, so if you’re looking for budgeting support, get in touch.
If done well, a garage conversion can increase the value of your home by up to 20%. Garage-to-bedroom conversions with an en-suite bathroom generally add the most value, while garage-to-office conversions typically increase value by around 10%. The value increase you’ll achieve with your conversion depends on the type of property and what type of conversion complements it best.
Garage Conversion Inspiration
Now that we’ve covered the logistics of a garage conversion, it’s time to get inspired. We’ve compiled our seven favourite conversion ideas to help you decide how you’ll use your extra space.
An All-In-One Living Space
Use your conversion as an opportunity to create a home away from home. This conversion, packed with everything you’d need in a house, is perfect for a detached garage. These homeowners have added insulation, plumbing, flooring, and a cleverly designed sleeping loft to turn their garage into a cosy abode. They’ve repurposed lockers and used vintage furniture to create a stylish space while keeping costs down. Bear in mind that building regulations are required if you plan on using your garage as sleeping accommodation.
A Productive Workspace
If you work from home, you’ll know how difficult it can be to switch from work mode to home mode when you clock out for the evening. But with a garage-to-office conversion, you can create a space seperate from your home dedicated entirely to work. In this conversion, the homeowner has opted for a neutral palette and minimalist decor to create a relaxing environment that is great for productivity.
@east_shore_home It’s finished!!! The garage conversion is completed! Well minis some light fixtures and a few finishing touches! But what do yoj all think? From drab, to fab!!! The least used space to what will now be the most used in our home! #garageconversion #homeimprovement ♬ (It Goes Like) Nanana – Edit – Peggy Gou
Somewhere To Get Your Sweat On
A garage-to-gym conversion is one of the simplest ways you can reinvent your garage space. Requiring far less investment than other conversion types, a garage gym makes it much easier to fit working out into your routine. Save on a gym membership and boost the value of your property at the same time- it’s a win-win!
The Ultimate Games Room
For those often on hosting duties, a garage conversion is the perfect opportunity to create a space your guests will love – a games room. From table tennis to pool, there are plenty of options to choose from, and the costs are relatively low compared to other conversion types. Or, if you’re looking to create a dedicated space for the kids to enjoy themselves, why turn your garage into a playroom?
@chelsimcavoy The best room in mum n dads house😍 #gamesroom #transformation #fyp #dadsoftiktok #scottish ♬ original sound – xxtristanxo
A Place To Be As Loud As You Want
Those with a budding musician in their family will appreciate this one! Turn your garage into a recording studio where noise isn’t an issue. Whether you make music professionally or just enjoy getting creative with sound, this type of conversion is right up your street. Introduce sound-proofing technology and make use of the extra storage to create a space centred around great music.
Something Worth Showing Off
Before conversion, garages are often neglected and hidden from the rest of the house. So why not use this opportunity to turn it into the centrepiece of your home? In this remodel, the homeowners transformed their overly cluttered garage into the property’s master bedroom. Spacious and flooded with natural light, the new space is hardly recognisable.
@hotcheetofingersporvida_ The best decision ever! Our special place. #remodel #remodeling #garageintobedroom #fyp #family #bedroomdecor ♬ original sound – Builds By Kristen
Bring The Family Together
Create a space at the heart of your home by making your garage the property’s main living space. In this conversion, the homeowners have used the size of their garage to their advantage by turning it into a spacious lounge. This sociable space instantly becomes one of the home’s key features, massively boosting its value.
Let’s Get Converting!
While a lot of thought goes into a garage conversion, it’s clear they can have transformative effects on any home. Whether you want to add a home office or a buzzing games room, garage conversions are versatile and relatively straightforward to implement. In addition to the added functionality, they can increase the value of your home by up to 20%.
So, if you’ve been convinced to invest in a garage conversion and are looking for architects in Milton Keynes to help you create your ideal space, contact Amico. Our architectural technicians have over 20 years of experience helping homeowners, builders, and developers create impressive spaces, and you could be the next to benefit.