A garage conversion is one of the simplest ways to create more usable space without extending the footprint of your home. If the existing structure is suitable, a garage can often be transformed into a bedroom, home office, playroom, utility room, gym or additional living space with far less disruption than a full extension.
At Harborough Lofts, we look at the existing garage, how you want to use the new room and what alterations will be needed before recommending the most practical route forward.
Is your garage suitable for conversion?
Most garages can be converted, but the amount of work required varies considerably from property to property. We assess the existing walls, floor, roof, access, insulation, damp protection, ventilation and services before the project begins.
We also consider how the new room will connect with the rest of the house. Sometimes this means creating a new internal doorway, altering windows and doors or upgrading the floor and walls to meet current building standards.
What can a garage be converted into?
The right solution depends on the property and what your household actually needs. Common garage conversions include:
- Home offices
- Additional bedrooms
- Playrooms
- Gyms
- Utility rooms
- Snug or TV rooms
- Guest accommodation
- Larger kitchen or living areas
Rather than forcing a standard layout onto every property, we work around the existing structure and intended use of the space.
What does a garage conversion involve?
A typical project may include removal or alteration of the existing garage door, new windows or doors, insulation, flooring, plastering, electrics, heating and internal finishes.
Depending on the property, structural alterations or drainage and plumbing work may also be required.
We can help coordinate the project from the initial feasibility stage through to construction and completion, bringing in the appropriate trades and specialists where required.
Planning and Building Regulations
Many straightforward garage conversions do not require full planning permission, although this depends on the property, previous planning conditions and the extent of the work.
Building Regulations will normally apply. These cover areas such as insulation, ventilation, fire safety, structural work and electrical installations.
We can review the project at the outset and help identify what approvals, drawings or structural information are likely to be required before work begins.
Start your garage conversion
If you are considering converting your garage, send us some basic information about the property, what you would like to create and any drawings or photographs you already have.
We can then review the project and advise on the likely next steps before arranging a site visit where appropriate.