A garage conversion can add more functional space to your home and help you create a usable corner that might not fit somewhere else. Whether you dream of a new home office, a man’s cave, or a playroom for the kids, you have plenty of garage conversion ideas.
But for your vision to materialize, you need a clear-cut cost estimate along with detailed insights into the conversion process. If you start without a budget in mind or don’t know what awesome things you can do by converting your garage, the whole project will fall flat.
Therefore, we’re here with this awesome guide on converting a garage to something more useful. So, whether you’re confused about this project’s cost or want to know what sort of conversions you can do, keep reading and let us help.
How Much Does a Garage Conversion Cost?
Here comes the big concern: the garage conversion price you’ll have to pay. While the total expense will depend on the specifics of your project, the average garage conversion cost UK is between £7,500 to £20,000.
Let us break down the different types to give you a clear idea.
Single Garage Conversion
Converting a single garage into a functional space costs between £7,500 and £12,000. This project may involve turning the garage into a bedroom, home office, or playroom. The cost covers the insulation, flooring, lighting, and heating.
Double Garage Conversion
A double garage offers more space and costs between £12,000 and £20,000 to convert. You can transform it into a large living area, divide it into multiple rooms, or even associate it with loft conversion stairs.
Integral Garage Conversion
An integral garage is part of your home’s main structure, which means it’s somewhat simpler and less costly. This type of garage conversion cost is between £7,500 to £15,000. Since it’s already integrated into your house, you could save on building external walls or roofing. However, you’ll still need to consider insulation, ventilation, and interior finishes to make the space comfortable.
Detached Garage Conversion
Converting a detached garage is more complex and its cost ranges between £10,000 and £20,000. The higher pricing here is because you’ll need to install new utility connections like electricity, water, and heating systems. If you’re turning a detached garage into a guest suit, you’ll need to account for plumbing and possibly a kitchenette.
High-End or Specialized Conversions
If you’re planning a specialized conversion, like a home gym with specific equipment, a soundproof music studio, or a luxury guest apartment, costs can exceed £20,000. These projects often require specialized materials and custom installations.
The Best Garage Conversion Ideas
Converting your garage can open up a world of possibilities for your home, so before we get to small garage conversion ideas, let’s see why doing it makes sense.
● Creating More Living Space
If your family is growing or you need more room to relax, a garage conversion into bedroom, living room, or family room will help. This approach makes the most of your existing space without the expense and hassle of building an extension.
● Setting Up a Home Office
With more people working remotely, having a dedicated home office has become important. Converting your garage into a quiet and separate workspace can boost productivity and help maintain a work-life balance. You can design the space to include built-in shelving for files, a large desk for multiple monitors, or a small meeting area.
● Building a Home Gym
One of the most popular garage conversion ideas UK is turning this space into a home gym. You can equip this place with machines and equipment that match your fitness goals, such as treadmills, weight benches, or yoga mats.
● Creating a Guest Suite
Hosting friends and family is a joy, but sometimes space is limited. Therefore, converting your garage into a guest suite provides a comfortable and private area for visitors without disrupting your daily routine. You can include a bedroom, a small living area, and even a bathroom if space allows.
● Rental Unit or Annex
If you’re looking to generate extra income, converting your garage into a rental unit is a smart choice. This is a more extensive project, with costs ranging from £15,000 to £25,000. You’ll need to comply with building regulations and possibly add a kitchen and bathroom. In cities like London, where space is at a premium, this option can be particularly lucrative. It’s similar to loft conversions London, which are popular for maximizing living space.
● Hobby or Craft Room
If you’re into painting, sewing, or model building, a dedicated hobby room can help your creativity flow freely. Converting your garage for this purpose may cost up to £11,000 because you’ll need good lighting and storage solutions. For example, installing custom shelving helps organize your materials and keeps the space tidy.
● Home Cinema
A home cinema entertains the whole family, but know that you’re looking at a budget of over £18,000 for this, depending on the technology you choose. For instance, soundproofing the room will provide the best audio experience and prevent disturbance to the rest of the house. Similarly, comfortable seating and a quality projector can turn your garage into a personal theater.
● Kitchen Extension
Expanding your kitchen into the garage creates a larger functional space so you can keep your essentials and electronic items without cramping the room. However, to extend your garage in a way that it becomes one with the kitchen or if you turn it into a make-shift kitchen, you must consider plumbing, electrical work, and ventilation. A kitchen without carefully thought plumbing and ventilation is of no use.
● Utility or Laundry Room
Many homes don’t have enough space to do or dry laundry, and if there’s extra room in the garage, why not use it for this purpose? Luckily, this is one of the more affordable options and you can get done with this in under £9,000. You’ll install plumbing for washing machines and perhaps, add storage for cleaning supplies, and that’s it.
● Teenager’s Den or Game Room
Providing a space for teenagers to relax can benefit the whole family because now they have space to unwind without disrupting the home’s peace. This conversion costs around £9,000 to £12,000. Equip the room with comfortable seating, gaming consoles, and entertainment systems. It offers them independence while keeping them close to home.
When planning your garage conversion, check how it fits with the rest of your home. For instance, if you’re also thinking about a loft conversion, understanding the loft conversion cost helps you budget effectively. Combining a garage conversion with a loft conversion can significantly increase your living space.
Plan the Project Well for the Best Garage Conversion Before and After Results
Thoroughly planning your garage conversion can make a big difference in the outcome because that means you have touched all important aspects of the project. So, start by clearly defining what you want the space to become and how it will fit your needs. Think about the layout, materials, and any permits you might need.
Organizing these details upfront and hiring expert contractors will make the whole process smoother and help avoid unexpected hiccups. Good planning ensures that your project stays on track and turns out just the way you imagined.
FAQs
How much will a garage conversion cost?
On average, you can expect to spend between £7,500 and £20,000 in the UK. A simple conversion of a single garage into a basic living space might be on the lower end of the scale, around £7,500 to £12,000. More complex projects, like adding a bathroom or high-end finishes, can push the cost toward £20,000. It’s important to get detailed quotes from reputable contractors to understand how your specific needs will affect the overall price.
Do I need permission to convert my garage?
In many cases, you don’t need planning permission to convert your garage, especially if the work is internal and doesn’t involve enlarging the building. Garage conversions are often considered permitted development. However, you will need to comply with building regulations to ensure the new space is safe and meets all legal standards. These regulations cover aspects like structural integrity, fire safety, insulation, and ventilation.
How can I convert my garage cheaply?
To keep costs down, focus on minimizing structural changes like keeping the existing walls, roof, and layout as it reduces expenses. Opt for cost-effective materials and finishes that still offer durability and a good appearance. Doing some of the work yourself, like painting or installing flooring, can also save money. However, always hire qualified professionals for electrical and plumbing work to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
Is it a good idea to convert a garage into a room?
Yes, converting a garage into a room will add valuable living space to your home without the higher costs of building an extension. It can increase your property’s value and make better use of underutilized space. However, consider the trade-offs, such as losing covered parking or storage space.
