4 Simple Steps to Getting the Organized Garage of Your Dreams
Ah, the garage — it’s easy to view the space as a dumping ground. Rarely seen by guests, it’s a place where odds and ends are left when they have nowhere else to go, and where tools and gardening essentials are dug out every six months. But with a little organization, your garage can become a multipurpose space, or at the very least, a little neater. Follow these tips and learn how to make the most out of your garage.
1. Design with functionality in mind.
If you’re starting from scratch, take time to plan your garage layout. Are your entryways easy to access, and is there enough room for the space to be functional once there is a car parked inside? Enlist the help of a licensed electrician and plumber to ensure there are enough power and water facilities. An efficient garage will add value to your home.
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
If you’re updating your current garage, start by getting rid of unwanted junk. Look up your next community yard sale and time your overhaul to fall within the same week to avoid excess mess. Earn extra cash by listing old furniture pieces online. Start planning your garage layout by grouping items into categories: sporting equipment, tools, furniture, gardening supplies, etc. Ensure all boxes are clearly labeled so that you know where everything lives.
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
2. Store upwards, not outwards.
Once a car is parked inside, most garages have minimal extra space, which means clever storage is a must. Think vertically and ditch short and bulky cabinets that will congest passageways. Shallow tall cabinets, high shelving, and wall-hanging hooks will free up floor space and allow you to store even more. Regardless of your garage’s layout, there are storage solutions and fittings to make it a useful space. Corner-based shelving will optimize storage in nooks, while cabinets with wheels allow you the freedom to adapt your space when needed.
3. Be storage-smart.
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Invest in storage solutions that best utilize your garage’s empty spaces, in particular, the space above your car. Most people overlook ceiling storage. However, suspending shelving can safely store bulky items such as ladders and camping gear, maximizing floor space.
Not only does customizing your garage make it more useful, it also allows for further storage additions in the future. Who says you’ll never buy that canoe? Opt for overhead storage solutions with adjustable heights to cater for all type of objects. Ceiling storage will also help to keep your belongings in great condition, away from dampness and insects, while also facilitating healthy garage airflow.
4. Put safety first.
If little ones will be using the garage, it’s important to find safe ways of storing hazardous items. Lockable heavy-duty cabinets are perfect for storing chemicals and tools that are potentially dangerous. With a minimalist finish, they’re a go-to storage choice for garages that are also used as playrooms, helping to create a seamless transition between house and garage.
If you are looking at transforming your garage into a multipurpose space — whether it be a play area for the kids or an at-home office — you’ll need to look at the quality of your garage first. Ventilation, insulation, pest control, and car fumes will all need to be looked at before primary stages of planning even begin. It’s best to check with your neighborhood first before doing any big restorations, and always hire an accredited builder.
This article was written by Bunnings Warehouse Australia, as told to Homes to Love editors. For more, check out our sister site, Homes to Love.
More From FIRST
15 Best Nursery Closet Organizers for a Neat and Tidy Baby Room
