A shabby-chic style garage is a highly-valued addition to any home, providing storage and security for items such as cars, tools, lawn mowers and seasonal decorations. If you don’t want the hoo-ha of a garage, a carport is a cheaper alternative, which can protect your prized vehicles from the elements, provide shade, and create a sense of privacy. A utilitarian space, garage designs should focus on functionality above all else, so look to shelving and other storage solutions that will best maximise the small square meterage. Where you don’t have anything to store, consider transforming the space into a workspace or extra bedroom instead.

What are some smart garage storage solutions?

Garage and carports are often filled with heavy equipment, so your storage will need to be strong and sturdy. Line the walls with shelves and cabinets, add a workbench, include wall hooks for awkward items such as brooms and shovels and add wall-mounted racks for bikes. More expensive items can be placed in lockable toolboxes. They key is to have a place for everything, so as to avoid a cluttered mess that not even your lawn mower can squeeze into.

How do I make a statement with my shabby-chic style garage design?

Garage designs are easily neglected or set aside in the ‘too hard’ basket, when, in reality, something as simple as a garage door or garden element can transform the space. Whether you want yours to stand out or blend in, garages should be an integral part of your home design, and not just an afterthought. Consider making yours a central feature with an enticing garage door, or turn its form into a sculptural feature.