What is a garage, anyway? Ikea’s latest Life at Home report found that 93% of New Zealand’s garages are carpeted and used as a multipurpose room. Maximising your garage space doesn’t have to mean buying new furniture. With a little creativity, you can transform your garage into a stylish and versatile area.

Start with a clean slate

Before the up-do, have a clear-out. Remove old boxes, broken tools, and items you no longer need. Sweep, mop, or pressure-wash floors and wipe down surfaces to create a fresh starting point. Decluttering not only makes your garage look bigger but also helps you visualise the space. Consider donating, selling, or recycling unused items, and take the chance to inspect floors for cracks or dampness. Consider durable epoxy or rubber mats to protect surfaces and make cleaning easier. 

a garage with bikes and shelves and a brick wall

Think vertically

Garages often have limited floor space, so use vertical storage to your advantage. Wall-mounted shelves, pegboards, and hooks can hold tools, bicycles, and seasonal items, freeing up valuable floor area. Overhead storage racks are ideal for storing bulky or rarely used items, such as camping gear or holiday decorations. Adding power outlets along walls and task lighting above work areas makes vertical zones functional for projects. Magnetic strips, hanging baskets, and wall hooks can store small tools and supplies, making items instantly visible and easy to grab. By thinking vertically, you maintain a tidy, uncluttered floor while still keeping everything accessible. 

Zone your space

Create dedicated areas for vehicles, DIY projects, sports gear, or laundry, if needed. Clearly defined zones make it easier to find items and maintain organisation. Use rugs, markings, or furniture placement to visually separate areas. This approach also helps prevent clutter from spreading across the garage. Proper ventilation in each zone prevents dampness, and windows or vents can improve airflow for workshop activities. Zoning makes your garage versatile, allowing it to serve multiple purposes without becoming chaotic.

tools on the workbench of the old workshop

Store smart

Smart storage, such as transparent bins, labelled containers, and stackable crates, helps you see and reach what you need quickly. Use small containers for screws, nails, and other hardware to avoid a mess. This approach also keeps the kids safe as hazards are out of reach. Incorporating wall-mounted racks, overhead shelving, and modular drawer systems ensures every tool has a place, while soundproofing options keep noise down if using power tools. Smart storage saves time, reduces clutter, and makes your garage feel deliberately arranged rather than improvised.

Maintain a system

Even the best garage design can fall apart without regular upkeep. Keep to your zones and refresh regularly. Labelled containers and clear zones make it easy for everyone in your household to follow the system. A well-kept garage can be a theft magnet; adding security features such as high-quality locks, motion-sensor lights, or a camera system safeguards tools and seasonal gear. Routine checks on lighting, shelving, and flooring help you catch small issues before they become costly repairs. By embedding these habits into your routine, your garage will stay organised, functional, and stylish all year round.