If you are a homeowner, you have probably felt the need for additional space in your home at least once or twice. It may be you need space for storage or you want to expand your living space. Maybe you need hobby space or work space and there are no additional rooms. The good news is, if you have a garage, there may be a solution. Your garage is probably being used to house your car and maybe the cars of other people who live in your home. There may be some storage space or a little room left over for tools and cleaning items. If this is the only purpose your garage serves, you are missing out on precious square feet of space available to you. Even if things seemed cramped with the cars or other vehicles, there are probably things you can do to expand the space. The first thing you need to do is make sure the space is well-lit and temperature controlled. This will mean different things depending on whether you are planning to create living space or storage space, but in either case, changes will be necessary. If you are using fluorescent lighting in the garage, be sure the T5 Ballast and Electronic Ballasts are working and that you have adequate lighting in the space.
More lighting may be needed or you may need to install a window in one or more of the walls to let in natural light. Then make sure the space offers protection against the weather and install heating or cooling if need be.
For temporary or seasonal use, you can use portable heating and cooling elements. If you are looking for a more permanent solution, speak with a professional about installing long-term methods of heating and cooling.
After the shell of comfort has been created, you can begin to design the space you need. If it is additional storage, add shelving and cabinets.
Shop at department stores, build them yourself, or purchase second storage online or at garage sales. If you are planning to expand your living space shop for furnishings at these same places. Many of the pieces you find at garage and rummage sales may need some TLC but can be just as comfortable and sturdy as brand new pieces. You should treat this space as you would any living space and bring in comfortable furnishings, accessories, and anything else needed to make the space livable. This includes accessories like cozy throws, artwork, flooring, plants, and entertainment.
