Ideas on Remodeling an Insulated Garage

An insulated garage is a valuable piece of real estate in a home. The climate control of insulation makes it comfortable enough to use for hobbies and projects and also safe for storing items that might otherwise be ruined by extreme heat or cold. The key to remodeling such a garage is to think carefully about how the space can best be used before starting the project.

Specialty Use

An insulated garage is a good space to set up a specialty use area for a hobby or home-based business. For example, a photography, jewelry, crafting, or painting studio would fit well. Even a home gym or woodworking shop could fit in the garage, or it can remain a garage, but be remodeled to maximize storage and ease of access for auto repairs. The primary use for the garage, even if it doesn't require all the space the garage offers, guides the overall design.


Unless the specialty use takes up all the available space in the garage, it can be helpful to plan the remodel to include different zones for different needs and activities. For example, a garage for a small family might include a zone for storing bicycles and outdoor toys, one for automotive supplies, and another for winter supplies. A separate zone can be set aside for messy craft projects, or for game tables like ping-pong or foosball. Thinking of the areas as zones helps keep the garage organized and make planning the remodel easier.

Lighting, Walls and Flooring

Most standard garage lighting is not sufficient for serious tasks. Dim fluorescent lighting is not pleasant to spend much time in, either. Track lighting can brighten up the space without looking too commercial. It can also be adjusted to shine in specific areas. Walls don't have to be painted plain white. Bright colors can help make work space more inviting or denote different task areas. Light-colored walls help reflect light though, so that work areas remain well-lit. Concrete floors can be stained and sealed to improve their appearance. Other flooring options that still allow automobiles to be parked in the garage if desired include epoxy coating and interlocking rubber and vinyl tiles or sheets.


Regardless of the specific use, at least some portion of the garage is likely to end up being used for storage. Floor-to-ceiling cabinets can provide lots of storage space, but cabinets with countertops can provide both storage and workspace. Wall hanging systems, like slatwall or pegboard, are ideal for storing frequently used items. Slatwall also offers myriad options, from shelving to baskets to large hooks that can be positioned anywhere on the wall. A bank of wide shelves dedicated to storage bins can also be handy in a garage.