Detached Garage Conversion Guide

One of the most astounding facts based on a survey conducted by RAC Home Insurance is that out of the estimated 11 million garages across the UK, about 5.7 million (more than half) are not used for parking cars. Only 4 out of 10 people in the UK regularly use their garages, while 53% of them claim to leave their vehicles on driveways. 

So, where are the garages going? The primary reason for such a trend is the lack of storage space. In the same survey involving 68% respondents, about 90% of them have claimed to use garage space to store DIY materials & tools, close to 75% of them are storing gardening equipment and others are using their garages as gyms or to store gymming equipment. 

The above facts, though incredible, are indicative of an accelerating trend, the increasing need for functional spaces. 

So, if you are one of those looking to make the most of your underused detached garage, this article will be the most useful thing you will go through today.

Why Should I Convert My Garage?   

This is of course for you to decide. But if your existing garage space is barely used, it is high time you think of a conversion. Garage conversion incredibly frees up your existing living space and adds significant value to your property. What more, it is also one of the fastest and cost-effective ways to expand floor space as compared to planning a new house extension. 

Planning Permission and Applicable Regulations

You may need to apply for “change of use” if you desire to convert your garage into any form of accommodation. However, it depends on the nature of conversion and the work you plan to do. The following will help you with a more concrete picture. 

Building an Extension

You will require planning permission if you plan to expand the garage to build a habitable space such as an office space or a gym. 

For instance, planning permission will be necessary if you are planning to build a bath or a shower room. This is because, since a detached garage is an outbuilding, permitted development rights do not allow for any external attachment, and because building a bathroom invite installing a new drainage system and other external plumbing system, permitted development will not cover them. 

Raising the roof height of your detached garage will also invite compliance with planning permission. 

Fig. 1 A before-and-after comparison of EA’s Garage conversion project

Habitable Use

If you plan to use your detached garage only as a habitable space, you do not require planning permission. For example, if you want your detached garage to accommodate a person or any relative or a friend for certain period only as a habitable place, you will not require planning permission.

Renting Out

If you plan to rent out your detached garage but for not more than 6 months without altering it externally, you may not require planning permission. If you extend beyond the 6 months period, you may need to seek one. Contact your local planning authority for specific details.

Location 

If your property is in a conservation area, is a listed building, or is part of an area of outstanding beauty you might require planning permission for a detached garage conversion. 

Interior Changes 

There is no need for planning permission if the garage conversion entails only interior changes such as laying carpets, or even fitting a kitchen sometimes may not necessarily require planning permission. 

Building Regulations 

Building regulations for a detached garage conversion may depend upon the construction type, size, and other considerations. The following factors require compliance with building regulations if applicable. 

• Structural Safety & Changes – Raising the roof height, floor height or removing any wall containing a beam or a load bearing wall will require thorough inspection 
• Fire Safety – To check if the garage is fireproof and includes sorted escape gateways/routes
• The garage is moisture proof and has a course of damp-proofing done 
• Is adequately ventilated
• Is tested for electrical safety
• Walls are energy efficient with well insulated ceilings

Value Addition from a Garage Conversion 

A well-thought-out garage conversion will slingshot the value of your property up to 20%. Moreover, if you plan to rent out your garage complying with the necessary permissions and regulations, you will invite a monthly rental which means you can regain your expenses of garage conversion within a matter of months. 

Cost for a Detached Garage Conversion 

Whether the conversion is a simple room transformation, or whether it entails installing a bath or a kitchen or if it includes major extension works. 

Listed below are ballparked cost estimates for a detached garage conversion.  

• If your plan is to convert your detached garage into a simple office space or a study room or just another living room, the cost might range between £15,000 to £20,000. 
• If you plan to build a bathroom, the cost of furnishing along with plumbing and drainage systems will incur up to £25,000.  
• If your plan is to build a major extension or any structural work of a higher degree, the cost will exceed £30,000. 

Factors Affecting the Cost

As you might be aware, the cost of a detached garage conversion depends on several factors. 

General Factors 

• Property Type – If your property is listed or is a heritage one, the legal ramifications will lead to more costs. 
• Materials – If you plan to use high quality materials.
• Location – If your property is in a conservation area, it will affect the cost as architects or building professionals will do so. 
• Complexity – If the nature of work is more complex and involves major changes or extensions.

Specific Factors  

• Structure – If the existing garage is not sturdy enough and necessitates a repair, then the cost will vary accordingly.

There could be several things that need to be cross-checked before proceeding with the project. This may involve the following – 

• Checking the foundation level – It is crucial to check the foundation level and make sure it sits right with the future projects you might have in mind for your property. For example, you might need a deeper foundation incase you want to add a double-storey extension on top of the garage. Extension Architecture, with the support of its structural team and designers will ensure that you make the right choice before embarking on the project!

• Check if your property lies in conservation areas/ listed building – It is extremely important to check, before commencing any discussion, whether the property lies in a conservation area or is a listed building. This will strongly alter how we make our decisions moving forward. If you don’t have much data on your property, we can check it for you!

• Replacing the Door – If you plan to add an additional window, the cost will be a lot more affordable. If you plan to build a whole new wall with a window, it will be an expensive affair.
  
  
• Electrical and Heating lines – This holds good if you are planning for a major build, more than just a habitable space. 

Exploring Creative Garage Conversion Ideas

• The Home Office Retreat

In today’s remote work environment, transforming your small garage into a home office is a smart and practical solution. With thoughtful design, it can become a peaceful, distraction-free zone that enhances both productivity and creativity. Picture custom-built shelves, plenty of natural light, and a cosy workspace that’s entirely your own.

Extension Architecture’s Expertise: We specialise in crafting functional and inspiring home office spaces within small garages. Our designs ensure that your converted space is optimised for work while seamlessly blending with the overall aesthetic of your home.

• The Cozy Guest Retreat

For those who often welcome family and friends, converting a small garage into a guest suite can be a remarkable upgrade. You’ll be able to offer guests a comfortable, private space equipped with a bedroom, bathroom, and even a small kitchenette. This transformation is perfect for those who want to provide a warm and inviting stay. Additionally, if a family member requires ground-floor accessibility, this conversion could be an ideal solution.

Extension Architecture’s Expertise: We excel in designing guest suites that prioritise comfort and privacy. Our attention to detail ensures your guests feel right at home in their cosy retreat.

• The Fitness Haven

Transforming your small garage into a fitness space is another fantastic option. Whether your focus is yoga, weightlifting, or cardio, your converted garage can serve as a dedicated workout area. With the addition of mirrors, rubber flooring, and specialised equipment, it can become your personal fitness sanctuary.

Extension Architecture’s Expertise: We understand the unique requirements of fitness spaces. Our expertise in small garage conversions guarantees a home gym that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

• The Playroom Paradise

For families with young children, a garage conversion into a playroom can create a dedicated space for play, creativity, and learning. With vibrant decor, smart storage solutions, and interactive features, your garage can be transformed into a fun and engaging environment for kids.

Extension Architecture’s Expertise: We specialise in creating playrooms that are safe and enjoyable for children. Our designs thoughtfully incorporate every detail to make playtime both fun and enriching.

• The Lively Kitchen/Utility Space

If cooking is your passion and your current kitchen doesn’t meet your needs, converting your garage into a kitchen can be a fantastic solution. This conversion not only adds value to your home but can also be customised to your exact specifications. And if your current kitchen is adjacent to the garage, you’re in luck—this setup makes the transition even smoother.

Extension Architecture’s Expertise: We specialise in creating kitchens tailored to the homeowner’s needs, with every detail meticulously planned as part of our tender packages.

• The Snug Living Room

Regardless of the size of your home, there’s always room for another cozy living area. If family time and hosting gatherings are important to you, converting your garage into an additional living room can be a stunning enhancement to your home. It’s especially advantageous if the existing living room is next to the garage.

Extension Architecture’s Expertise: We have a proven track record of delivering exquisite, private, and luxurious living spaces that enhance family time, making it more relaxing and enjoyable.

Fig. 3 A few renders from Extension Architecture’s Garage Conversion Projects

Can I DIY?

It is natural that if you are planning to self-convert your garage it will negate the cost of hiring professionals, and hence lesser the cost incurred. As architecture practitioners and builders with decades of experience, we always suggest hiring a professional given the various applicable regulations, safety considerations and efficient planning & execution. 

Conclusion:

Detached garage conversions individually though may be a slightly expensive affair, they are generally a more cost-effective means when compared to planning a whole new extension. In addition, detached garage conversions are more of an enduring and meticulous affair from both legislative and cost perspective, it requires constant monitoring and a keen eye to plan, assess and execute from start to finish. 

Having furnished many garage conversion projects, at Extension Architecture we can assist you with the right creative and technical expertise to help you convert or enhance your existing detached garage into a fruitful and functional space. 

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