Whether it is because your family has grown in number or you've already handed over the basement area as an extra bedroom, you may feel you have the need for a new space to "play". A game room! If you are faced with no other space than the garage, we've got some great solutions and tips.
Here are some ideas on how you could set up your garage as a game room, and we hope they inspire you to get going on this new, great space.
The garage: more versatile than you realize
Though once a space for vehicles and "stuff," garages are now considered an extension of the living area. It is the room we never thought of using, but which converts easily into a fantastic space. It might be a DIY workspace a massive pantry, or a spot to park the second fridge or freezer, or the washer dryer. It can also be a room where we put keepsakes on display (or in storage).
It will also make the perfect space for a family game room.
Step one: Plan!
Is everyone in agreement that the garage as play room is a good call? If so, it now requires some planning to get everyone on the same page. The list of things to do include:
- Accept that the parking is now outdoors
This may be tough for some, so your plans may mean contacting your municipality to find if it is okay to install a portable car shelter outside during the winter that will protect your car from the weather. - Measure entire garage
If you are emptying the space, plan to find or create suitable storage for anything that you had been keeping in the garage. You may want to map out existing storage and then what you are going to do with all of that garage space when it is empty. Include the windows and all fixed objects like plumbing and fuse boxes. Don't forget the height of the room. Think of stairs, doorways, and the space above the garage door, especially if you have a high ceiling.
- Map out the plans
Now that you have a blueprint of the empty space, fill it in with the games you intend to install in the game room. Is there a pool table? Where does it go? Will you need storage, seating, or anything else? Bring the family in on this stage and make it more fun than ever. - Repairs?
For most of us, the conversion of a garage to a game room means painting and repairing. Make a list of what you need and choose materials wisely. If you are painting a floor, for example, use epoxy paint. Find colors and finishes that work and go with paler colors on the wall to give a sense of space or darker hues to get a closer feel in the room. Also consider all of the electrical work you may need, including heating. Then, think about plumbing…would a sink be helpful?
Eliminate clutter
Now that the planning phase is over, you might wonder "Now what?"
This is the time to go through everything and decide what goes and what stays. It may be difficult to part with certain sentimental items, but ask yourself this: How long has it sat in the garage in a box? If it is a year or more, you may want to donate, sell or give it away. Each inch of space created is space the family will enjoy!
Store what is left of your decluttering session in cabinets or in plastic bins and skip the cardboard boxes as they get damp, moldy, and may develop a mildew odor.
Think comfort
A great thing to do after eliminating items is to think about how to make the space cozier and more welcoming. That is the ideal time to apply some paint samples, think about lighting, and even adding in some furniture or rugs to give it a finished look.
Games you could add…
We talked about a pool table, but why not think about other types of games?
- Air hockey
- Darts
- Foosball
- Pinball machine
- Ping-pong
- Poker or blackjack table
- Putting green
- Video games
There are many options and though you have limits in the budget, you can also introduce new games as time passes.
The garage door is crucial...
We have yet to talk about the "fourth wall" which is the garage door. No garage to game room conversion is successful without an insulated and weathertight garage door to protect from cold, heat and humidity.
If you live in the Mount Pearl or St. John’s area, please contact us at 709‑368‑7222.
We are experts in garage doors better and can advise you on the best garage door system for your needs and budget.
We can send you an email quotation if needed or you can visit our showroom. Try out our Design Centre to help choose the style of garage door that suits you best or peruse our image gallery to give you lots of ideas.
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