Working from home once seemed like a futuristic and dream-like scenario just a couple of years ago. Now working from home has become the new normal. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we work. Even if it is no longer a legal requirement to work from home, many companies have allowed their employees to carry on working from home or have adapted a hybrid approach.

This has caused a rise in people converting rooms in their home into home offices or cramming a desk in the corner of a room, or turning their dining room table into a desk.

However, many people struggle with separating their home from their office. But there is a solution for this. One innovative and efficient way is by converting a garage into an office. Even if you do not work from home, having a home office in your garage has many benefits.

So, we have put together this guide with advice on ‌garage to office conversion to help you with your next project.

Why convert your garage into an office?

A garage conversion is often a better way to ‘add’ an extra room into your home with existing space. It is easier, cheaper and more time efficient than getting an extension. Also, if you decide to get a conversion, then you are not taking up space in your home.

Regarding work productivity, you will no doubt see a boost. Having a dedicated space to work in everyday will help you get into the work zone and block out distractions. As it is separate from your home, it will help you to separate your work and home life, helping you to enjoy both a little more.

Also, having an office space rather than a garage can add value to your home. A well-furnished office space looks a lot more visually appealing to a buyer than a damp and dingy garage.

Is my garage suitable for conversion?

Before you go into the planning stage for a conversion, you should check out whether your garage is suitable first and if it will fit in with your lifestyle. You should consider the following things:

If you use your garage for storage (e.g. bikes or garden equipment) where will you store it? If you have room for a shed in your garden or have a utility room, then that could solve the problem.
Do I have the time to work on the conversion myself? Do I have the time to oversee the work being done by tradespeople?
Do I need to get planning permission? Will it be granted?

Designing your office conversion

Electrics, heating and plumbing are elements you will have to consider when designing your office conversion. Not only are these considerations for functionality, but essential for Building Regulations.

Lighting is a key feature to consider for an office. You will want the lighting in the office to not be dim, as it may make work more difficult for you. Part of this consideration is if you want to fit windows into the office to let in natural light. If you opt for artificial lighting only, then you will have to consider the electrics in the room.

Another consideration is the flooring, and if you would prefer wooden floors or carpet.Wooden flooring is great as it is extremely durable and helps to conduct heat, but carpet also helps to conduct heat and has a cosy feeling to it.

An idea to consider if you have a double garage is if you would like to have a half garage half office space. It is unlikely that you will need planning permission for this project. By having this type of conversion, you are getting the best of both worlds - a new office for your work and storage space.

Building regulations

A garage conversion has to have the stamp of approval from Building Regulations to prove that the space is safe to be in. You must inform your local authorities of the work you are getting done, and a building control officer will be sent out to inspect the garage space.

The garage office must be structurally sufficient, walls must be damp and proof, good insulation, energy efficient, solid ventilation and be fireproof.

How much does a conversion cost?

The cost will vary depending on the size of the space you are working with and what your design ideas are. However, it is estimated to cost you around £1,000 per square metre. This cost includes the planning, design and construction. Another cost you must consider that isn’t included in that cost is the furnishing prices.

Does a garage office add value to my home?

Converting your garage into a usable room will add value to your home, as it is adding floor space. A garage office is an excellent way to boost the value of your home, and it can add 10-15% on top of the current value ‌of your home.