Remote work has become the new normal, but it can often be a challenge to find the right home office space. If you’re tired of working from your kitchen table or bedroom, it might be time to look at some underutilised spaces in your home, specifically, the garage.
Converting your garage into a functional home allows you to get a dedicated workspace away from household distractions, as well as the satisfaction of transforming a cluttered storage area into something that is going to be genuinely useful. The key to success when it comes to smart organisation is choosing the right storage solutions.
Clear Out and Clean Up
Before you can create your dream home office space, you need to tackle the chaos and start to categorise your items into groups.
Start by removing everything from your garage and sorting items into three categories: keep, donate, and bin. You need to be honest about what you actually need, for example, those Christmas decorations from 2015 that you never use can probably go.
Once you’ve decluttered the space, it’s time to give the space a proper deep clean by sweeping, mopping, and checking for any maintenance issues like leaks or electrical problems that need addressing before you set up your workspace.
Master Your Storage with Smart Storage Solutions
The secret to a functional garage office is vertical storage. Garage shelving units are your best friend here, as they allow you to maximise floor space whilst keeping everything organised and accessible.
Metal shelving is another great option, offering an affordable option that is extremely durable. These robust metal shelving units can handle heavy boxes, tools, and seasonal items without the risk of wobbling or sagging.
When selecting shelving, look for adjustable shelves that allow you to customise the spacing based on what you’re storing to make the most out of your storage.
You may also consider installing tall shelving units along one or two walls, and leaving the remaining space for your desk and office setup. Heavy-duty garage shelving units are able to support substantial weight, making them ideal for storing everything from tins of paint to stacks of paperwork.
Create Designated Zones
When it comes to organising your garage, it’s good to think of your home office space as having distinct areas. You can designate one corner for office supplies and equipment, another for seasonal storage, and perhaps a small section for any tools that you still need access to.
If you have wall space that can be utilised, wall-mounted storage systems can work brilliantly for frequently used items. Pegboards, hooks, and small shelves allow you to keep things visible and within reach without cluttering your workspace, ensuring your office area stays tidy whilst also maintaining easy access to stored items.
Essential Storage Tips for Success
For items that you don’t use daily, clear storage boxes are a great option. Make sure you label everything clearly, as your future self will thank you when you’re standing looking for something specific in your home office space.
You should also store frequently accessed items at eye level on your metal shelving, with your heavier, less-used items on lower shelves.
When stacking shelves, it is important to consider the weight distribution of your selected shelving units. For example, heavier items should go on lower shelves for stability, whilst lighter boxes and seasonal decorations can live up on the higher shelves.
Making It Feel Like an Office
Once your storage is sorted, you can now focus on creating a proper office atmosphere with adequate lighting (garages often lack natural light, so invest in good desk lamps and overhead lighting), as well as adding some insulation if needed to maintain comfortable temperatures year-round.
A comfortable chair, proper desk height, and reliable internet connection are also essential to complete your transformation from storage space to productive workspace.
Your New Favourite Home Office Space
When it comes to converting your garage into an office space, the right garage shelving units and metal shelving solutions will help you to create a space that works double duty without feeling cramped or chaotic.
In the final result, you will have a dedicated workspace that helps you stay focused and productive, with the addition of organised storage that actually makes sense and is practical.
