If you’re like most homeowners, you likely have a garage on your property. But is your garage gathering dust, cluttered with all the things you never use but just need to keep? You’re not alone – but you’re also not realizing the full potential of your space. As work from home has become the new normal, converting your garage into a fantastic home office setup will be the way to go. Here, HomeGirls show you how to get started.
Do a Clear Out
Most of us use our garage as a dumping ground for years’ worth of belongings. You might need to do some significant organizing here. After all, you don’t want to be taking your video calls with mess and clutter in the background! If you’re struggling to let your items go, consider using the three-box (or pile) method. Essentially, you sort your belongings by category: keeping, throwing, and donating or giving away. If clearing things out is still proving difficult, consider alternative storage solutions. There are many smart hidden storage solutions on the market. You could also use a room divider to sort through the space, so it’s out of sight, out of mind!
Make Your Space Usable
Before you can get to decorating, you’ll need to sort out a few basics. For example, most garages come in a concrete finish without proper flooring. You will need to furnish your space with floor or carpet tiles to be usable and comfortable throughout the year. Insulation will be another essential element to sort out upfront. Be sure to get your insulation updated and inspected to ensure it keeps the heat and cold out. For a DIY fix, caulking openings such as windows and doors will be effective in making your space more usable.
You might also be wondering what to do about your car. If you previously stored your vehicle in the garage, you might be worried about exposing it to external elements. Luckily, there is an easy solution for this problem – car covers! When choosing a car cover, keep in mind the climate you live in and if you need additional features like door zippers and reflective strips.
Take Stock of What You Need
Now that you have a functional, livable space, it’s time to set it up for your work needs. A recent study by CNBC reported that despite the increasing prevalence of the work-from-home lifestyle, over 39% of homeowners still haven’t set up their offices. To avoid feeling like you’re working out of a makeshift space, take stock of all the items you’ll need for work. A chair and desk setup will be an absolute must, and you may also need to set up printers or a fax machine. Lastly, consider storage for paperwork and other documents. When you fit out your space, try to avoid using any old furniture lying around the house. Not only will this give your space a mismatched feel, but old furniture is also unlikely to support your long work hours. Most Americans work over eight hours a day, meaning that lack of ergonomic support during these hours can take a toll on the body. Good path writes that ergonomic furniture (particularly a chair and desk) helps improve posture and reduce stiffness, pain, and a myriad of other problems.
Converting your garage into a dreamy home office has never been easier! Don’t let your garage gather dust. Instead, see it for the gold mine it is! Be sure to incorporate these tips into your space and see how your productivity skyrockets.
