Cinderella Stories: Convert Your Garage

Before you add square footage for a family room, dining area, or home office, take another look at your garage. Converting it may meet your needs without costing as much as a whole new addition.

» From Sunset

David Phelps

Close [x]

How to Live in the West

1 of 10

» View All Slides

Modern Studio

Here are some easy ideas to start your garage remodeling project:

1. Cover the original slab with new flooring or rugs, or add framing to bring the floor level with the rest of your home's interior.
2. Add skylights, windows, or French doors to brighten the space.
3. Insulate outside walls and roof to increase energy efficiency.
4. If it's too expensive to extend existing heating ducts, consider adding a gas fireplace that's rated as a room heater, a certified woodstove, or a fireplace with an outside combustion-air source.

This modern studio for a husband-and-wife design team started life as an antique two-car garage.

Next »Garage Before