Turning Underused Garage Space into Two Comfortable Bedrooms

Project Overview

This renovation involved converting an existing double garage in a 1992 colonial-style home into a functional two-bedroom living space. 

The homeowners wanted additional rooms for guests or potential future needs, and this conversion also added significant value to the home. Since the client had recently built four garages at the back of the property, they had ample parking and no longer needed the front garage space.

The goal was to create two fully insulated bedrooms and a connecting hallway that felt like a natural extension of the home, rather than a former garage. 

This required raising the floor level to match that of the main house and replacing the existing roller doors with colonial-style windows to allow natural light in and visually blend with the home's architecture.

Design & Planning

The project needed both planning and building consent, given the nature of the structural modifications and the requirement to meet current Australian energy efficiency standards. Careful attention was paid to insulation, window placement, and floor levelling to ensure the space would be comfortable all year round.

Before construction began, Refresh Renovations Consultant Natalie Zeni took the time to understand the client's goals, expectations, and budget. Although the original estimate was around $50,000, the final cost came to $56,000 after a few design changes were made prior to the contract being signed. The client was very detail-focused and wanted everything to be perfect. Every element was inspected and approved at each step.

Project Execution

Construction included raising the garage floor to align with the rest of the house, building new partition walls to form two bedrooms and a hallway, and lining the walls and ceiling with insulation. Externally, the team removed the three garage roller doors and replaced them with large, colonial-style windows, thereby improving the aesthetics and natural lighting.

Tasks performed by the Refresh Renovation Team included:

• Carpentry work for new walls and structural alignment
• Plasterboarding and insulation installation
• Self-levelling the floor
• Painting throughout
• New laminate flooring installation

A special flooring material, Quick-Step waterproof laminate, was chosen by the client to ensure durability and style.

Trades involved in the project included:

• Carpenters
• Plasterers
• Painters
• Flooring contractors
• Bricklayers
• Cleaner
• Nominated Supervisor for compliance oversight

Client Experience

Although the client had previously experienced poor workmanship from a different contractor during a bathroom renovation, their experience with the Refresh Renovation Team was very different. They appreciated Natalie’s prompt and professional response to the initial issue and were impressed with how well the project was managed thereafter.

The client was also pleased with the quality of the paintwork and the finish of the new flooring, which significantly enhanced the overall appearance of the space. Despite being very meticulous and highly involved, they felt that their standards were met and exceeded throughout the project.

Final Thoughts

What began as a garage is now a fully integrated part of the home, offering two spacious, insulated bedrooms with modern comforts and aesthetic appeal. The renovation has added valuable living space and significantly increased the home's resale value.

This project showcases the Refresh Renovations AU team’s ability to create success stories through proactive project management and client-focused delivery. Whether it’s extending living space or converting underutilised areas, the team has the experience to deliver high-quality results, on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.

Considering a home renovation? Book a FREE consultation with Natalie or call her on 1800 596 447 today!