Often a garage is one of the most overlooked spaces in a home. It’s easy to become an overfilled catchall for junk or rarely used items. It’s not uncommon to see a garage packed wall to wall with stuff and no room left for even a car.

Or perhaps you have plenty of open space in your garage and don’t know what to do with it.

No matter what your current garage situation is, there are tons of options to help you create a useful garage space that fits your needs and your budget.

We have come up with 81 of the best cool garage ideas We’re certain that at least one of these will work for you should you choose to update, organize or transform your garage.

Our blog is reader-supported. As an Amazon affiliate, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

What garage ideas will update the look and feel of my garage?

1. Hang A TV

If you’re looking for a place to relax and watch TV, consider hanging a television in your garage. You can add a few chairs or a couch to create the perfect spot for movie nights or cheering on your favorite team.

Photo @GarageLiving

2. Add a Sound System

If you love music, consider adding a sound system to your garage. This is perfect for listening to your favorite music or podcast while you work. And if you ever decide to host a party in the garage, you already have an awesome sound system ready.

3. Insulate the Garage Door

If your garage is attached to your home, you may want to consider insulating the door. This will help keep the garage cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. It’s a relatively easy project that can make a big difference in the temperature of your garage.

4. Mini Split Unit for Cooling and Heating

If you want to be able to use your garage year-round, consider adding a mini-split unit. This will allow you to cool the garage in the summer and heat it in the winter. Just make sure your garage is insulated before installing, so not to waste energy.

mini split unit in garage
Photo: Centex Hokie@ GarageJournal

5. Choose a Color Scheme

When it comes to choosing a color scheme, think about what you will be using your garage for. A lighter or neutral color scheme can help the space feel bigger. If you want to add in a cozy factor, choose a color scheme or darker or warmer colors.

6. Epoxy Paint the Floors

If your garage floor is looking a little worse for wear, consider painting it. You can find epoxy paint at your local hardware store. This will give your garage floor a new lease on life and make it easier to keep clean.

7. Polyaspartic Floor Coating

If you want an upgrade from epoxy and want your garage floor to have a high-end look, consider adding a polyaspartic coating. This type of coating is durable and easy to clean and is available in a variety of colors.

8. Interlocking Flex Tile Flooring

If you’re looking for a flooring option that’s easy to install and remove and looks great, consider interlocking flex tiles. These tiles are available in a variety of colors and pattern options. They’re also easy to clean and provide a solid non-slip surface for your garage.

Photo: Shea @ AllGarageFloors

9. Update with Cabinetry

Adding cabinetry in the garage is a great way to organize and add a touch of style to the space. When choosing cabinetry material for the garage, consider the climate and humidity levels in your area. Also, be sure to choose cabinets that are weatherproof and rodent-proof.

10. Under Cabinet Lighting

By installing lights under the cabinets, you improve visibility while working on your counter. Under-cabinet lighting is also a great way to add some extra light to the entire space without making it too bright.

11. GarageSkins

GarageSkins is a great way to completely transform the look of your garage without spending a fortune on a new door. The vinyl skins are easy to apply and come in a variety of colors and styles. With GarageSkins, you can give your garage a luxurious new look that is enviable.

Photo @GarageSkins

12. Paint Your Garage Door

If you are on a budget and want to update your garage door but can’t swing the cost of a new door or vinyl skins, you can use paint to give it a wood look. With some elbow grease, you can have a beautiful, wood-looking garage door for less than $100.

13. Magnetic Door Accessories

Upgrade your garage door with some simple magnets. No one will have any idea those new windows and hinges aren’t real. This is a super easy and inexpensive way to give your garage door a facelift.

14. Side-Sliding Garage Door

For a modern look, install side-sliding garage doors. There are no balancing springs required and they will keep your ceiling clear, although they will take up inside wall space when open.

Photo @Ryterna

15. Pendant Lighting

Adding pendant lighting to the garage can add a much warmer look and feel to the space. Pendant lighting is a great way to add some personality to the garage, and it can be a great way to make the space more functional, as well if it is currently too dark.

16. Globe Lighting

Globe lighting is a simple and inexpensive way to change the ambience in your garage. Purchase voice controlled warm LED string lights for energy efficient, bright lighting that won’t be too harsh.

17. Hexagon Grid LED Lighting

Hexxagon grid lighting is an incredible way to show off your vehicles and add some style. Energy-saving LED lights offer plenty of light and are anti-glare to give you the best lighting for working in your garage. Style plus functionality is a total win for this lighting system.

Photo @carguygarage

18. Natural Light

Adding natural light in the garage can make it a more pleasant space to work in. If you have room, adding a window can provide light and ventilation. If you don’t have room for a window, consider installing a skylight to brighten up the space.

19. Custom Neon Signs

Neon signs add a splash of fun to any space. Did you know you can custom-order neon signs? You can choose the color, font, and size to make an original sign that will light up your garage space and step up your garage design.

20. Statement Garage Art

When choosing garage art, first think about the vibe you want to create in your garage. Next, consider the size and shape of the wall where you’ll be hanging your art. You want to make sure the piece fits well and doesn’t overwhelm the space.

21. Hang Mirrors

Adding mirrors to your garage can be a great way to improve visibility when backing up. A convex mirror can help you see what is happening around your car, while a large mirror can be used for a home gym or yoga studio. Mirrors can be a great way to add functionality and style to any space.

22. Wall-Mounted Fans

Ditch the box fans sitting around on the floor on top of a workbench. Install wall-mounted fans in your garage. This eliminates tripping hazards and saves space. This remote control operated fan makes it easy to control from wherever you’re working in the garage.

23. Humidifier

A garage dehumidifier can help keep your garage in a healthy humidity range, especially during warm, wet months. This will help protect your vehicles and belongings from moisture damage. A dehumidifier can also help reduce the amount of mold and mildew in your garage.

24. Exhaust Fan

Adding an exhaust fan in the garage can help improve air quality and ventilation. When installing an exhaust fan, be sure to choose one that is powerful enough to move the amount of air needed. Also, make sure the fan is placed in a location where it will be effective in removing air from the garage.

25. Sound Proof It

If you’re looking to soundproof your garage one option is to add insulation to the walls and ceiling of your garage. Another option is to install acoustic panels or sound barriers on the ceiling of your garage. You can also use noise-canceling materials on the floor and door of your garage.

Photo @Canva

26. Seating

Garage seating can be very comfortable and flexible. Stools and pub tables on wheels are easily moveable. Modular sofas can be rearranged to make the best use of your space for watching a game. Foldable cushioned seating can easily be set up or stowed away. And if you’re really short on space, a telescopic stool will flatten and fit on a shelf when you’re done.

27. Garage Fireplace

If you’re wanting to heat your garage and provide some ambiance, add a fireplace. Avoid the dangerous fumes from a space heater and make your garage a warm, inviting space to spend time with friends and family by choosing an electric fireplace or a wood-burning stove.

28. Bring in Nature

Adding plants to the garage can brighten up the space and make it more inviting. Plants can also improve air quality. There are many types of plants that can thrive in a garage environment, so choose a few that thrive in low light and get started!

29. Floor Drain

If you have a garage, you know that sooner or later, water is going to find its way in. To protect your concrete floor, it’s a good idea to add a drain. This will allow the water to flow out instead of seeping in and causing damage. This also makes it easier to clean your garage floor.

30. Make Your Garage Door Smart

With a smart garage door opener, you can connect wirelessly to your smartphone and open and close your garage door from wherever you are. Some models even come with built-in timers and sensors, so you can set your garage door to open and close automatically if left open too long.

31. Garage Security Camera

Adding a garage camera is a great way to keep an eye on your property and belongings while they are in the garage. This myQ wireless garage camera can be easily connected to the myQ app, so you can keep an eye on your garage from anywhere in the world

Photo @Amazon

What garage ideas will keep my garage organized and functional?

1. Slat Wall Panels

If you’re looking for a way to organize your garage, consider adding slat wall panels. These panels provide a place to hang hooks and shelves. You can use them to store bikes, tools, and other gear. They’re also available in a variety of colors, so you can customize the look of your garage.

2. Hang Your Bikes

If you’re tight on floor space, hang your bikes from the ceiling Plus, it’s a great way to show off your collection! Just make sure you use heavy-duty hooks that can support the weight of your bikes.

3. Pegboard Wall for Tools

If you’re looking for a way to organize your tools, consider adding a pegboard wall. This will provide a place to hang your tools and keep them organized. You can also add shelves to the pegboard to create more storage space.

4. Slotted Pegboard Wall for Bikes and Sporting Equipment

Consider adding a heavy-duty slotted pegboard wall for your heavier equipment, such as bikes or a bag of golf clubs. This will hold up better than a traditional pegboard wall to accommodate your bulkier items and still keep them off the floor.

5. Overhead Bin Storage

If you’re looking for a way to get your bins off the floor consider adding overhead bin storage using some wire racks. This will provide a place to store seasonal items in totes, such as holiday decor, or things you don’t use often, such as camping gear.

6. Garage Loft

If you have a lot of stuff and your garage is starting to feel cluttered, consider installing a loft. It’s a great way to add extra storage space without taking up too much room. You can use it for storing seasonal items or even an extra room!

7. Cleaning Supply Wall

Create a cleaning supply wall by attaching a few shelves or hooks to the wall near the entrance to the house. You can then store your cleaning supplies on the shelves, making them easy to access when you need them and clearing up space inside your home.

8. Mudroom

If you want to keep your garage clean and organized, consider adding a mudroom. This will provide a place to store muddy or dirty shoes and clothing. You can also add a pet shower to the mudroom, so you can easily wash your dog before coming inside.

9. Sheet Metal Magnet Board

A sheet metal magnet board is a great way to organize small tools and hardware. The magnets on the back of the board hold the tools and hardware in place, so they are always within reach. The board can be hung on a wall or door, so it is out of the way when not in use.

10. Sliding Shelving

Shelving that slides out from the wall can help you save a lot of space in the garage. This type of shelving is typically mounted on tracks, so it can easily be pulled out when you need it and pushed back in when you don’t.

11. Floor to Ceiling Tote Storage

Do you like to use plastic totes for storing your holiday and not often used items? Instead of making stacks of them on the ground, install storage shelving on the wall to hold all of your totes. And to upgrade, purchase matching totes to give it a clean, uniform look.

12. Fold Down Workbench

Installing a fold-down workbench is a great way to make the most of the space in your shop. It allows you to have more open space for working, and it also makes it easier to move around your shop. Be sure to choose one that is made from durable materials and has a large work surface.

13. Pallet Storage

If you have a few extra pallets lying around, you can turn them on their sides, secure them to the wall and use them for wall storage. This is a great way to store brooms, shovels, and other long-handled items, and it’s a space-saving solution that doesn’t require any additional furniture.

14. Fishing Rod Organizer

Make use of the space on the inside of your garage door by installing a fishing rod organizer. You won’t have to use any valuable floor or wall space for this organizer. Plus, it will keep all of your fishing rods in order and protect them from damage.

15. Shoe Tubes

Do you have work boots, cleats, or other shoes that you don’t like wearing in the house? Install shoe tubes on the wall near the entrance to your home to store all those shoes and keep them off the floor. We’ve seen DIY shoe tubes made from concrete form tubes and PVC pipe.

16. Motorized Storage Rack

Installing an overhead motorized storage rack in the garage is a great way to eliminate climbing up and down ladders. These racks can be installed yourself or you can hire a professional to do it for you. There are many different types of racks available, so be sure to choose the one that best suits your needs.

17. Dry Good Storage

If you’re short on pantry space and love to do bulk shopping, you can store large quantities of food without taking up valuable kitchen space. Make sure to seal the food well, as it is susceptible to pests and spoilage if not stored properly.

18. Track Shelving

Track shelving is perfect for storage because it is customizable and can accommodate a variety of items. You can hang hooks from the track to attach heavier items, and the track can be adjusted to fit your needs.

19. Use Metal

Metal shelves are a great investment for the garage. Not only do they look great, but they are also very sturdy and durable. Unlike plastic shelves, metal shelves will not warp in the heat or cold, making them perfect for storing heavy items.

20. Divided Containers for Tools and Hardware

Using divided containers for tools and hardware can be helpful in organizing and keeping track of your tools and hardware. There are a variety of different types of divided containers that you can use, such as toolboxes, stackable trays, or plastic storage drawers.

21. Create Zones

When planning your garage, think in zones. Designate spaces in the garage for specific groups of items: a tools zone, yard equipment zone, sports equipment zone, etc. It makes finding items easier and keeps your garage looking neat and organized.

22. Collapsible Lawnmower

The next time you’re in the market for a push lawnmower, check out a collapsible lawnmower. It takes up a fraction of the space traditional push mower. They fold up vertically without leaking and are available in both gas-powered or electric versions.

Photo @Toro

23. French Cleats

If you love a good DIY project and have some basic woodworking skills and tools, you can build your own french cleat system for hanging wall storage. This is a fully customizable system and can be completed in just a few hours.

24. Wash Station

Having a wash station in the garage is a great way to keep your vehicles and other equipment clean. The station can be used to clean dirt, grease, and grime from your hands, tools, and equipment. A large wash station can even be used for bathing pets.

25. Corner Shelving

Corner shelving in the garage can be extremely beneficial because it uses all available space. This type of shelving can also be heavy-duty, which makes it perfect for storing heavier items. It’s a great option for keeping the garage organized and clutter-free.

26. Wire Baskets

Wire baskets are very versatile and look sleek. They’re available for pegboard, and track systems, can hang beneath a shelf or can be bolted directly onto the walls. They’re perfect for items such as tennis balls, gardening gear or cleaning supplies.

27. Overhead PVC Rack

DIY your own storage rack by using PVC pipe. It’s great for storing lumber, plumbing pipe, beach umbrellas, and other long items to keep them up and out of the way.

28. Bungee Cord Wall Storage

To keep all those sports balls in place, create a bungee cord wall. You can even utilize the narrow space between the garage door and the wall for this storage solution. This is a simple and inexpensive DIY Project.

29. Recycling Center

Step up your recycling game by creating a designated recycling center in your garage. Choose a spot on the wall with easy access to the inside of the house, to make recycling the most convenient. The easier your system is to use, the more successful it will be.

30. Pulley System

A pulley system can be used to stow away items in a garage. The system can be used to safely store ladders, canoes, and kayaks. The system uses a rope and pulleys to raise and lower the items manually. The system is easy to use and can be installed in minutes.

31. Wall Bumpers

Pool noodles aren’t just for kids. These pool toys are also great bumpers for the walls of your garage. If you’re limited on space and combatting dings from your vehicle doors hitting your garage walls. With just a pool noodle, a drill, and screws, you have an easy DIY solution.

32. Metal Lockers

Metal lockers can be used in the garage for storage and style. They can add an extra layer of security to your garage by keeping tools and other belongings locked up. They can also be a decorative addition to the space, adding some much-needed color and style.

33. Vehicle Lift

Adding a lift for your vehicles can make it easier to work on them and also give you more space to store them. A two-post lift is a good option if you have a limited amount of space, as it takes up less room than a four-post lift.

Photo @Canva

34. Additional Power Outlets

Reduce the risk of tripping over extension cords and create a more organized workspace by adding additional power outlets. It’s also a great way to keep your tools and equipment powered up and ready to go.

35. Install a Countertop

Adding a heavy duty countertop to your garage is a great way to increase its functionality. Whether you need extra storage space, a workspace, or somewhere to put tools, a countertop can meet your needs.

What garage ideas will help me transform my garage space?

1. Home Gym

If you’re short on space in your home but still want to have a place to work out, consider turning your garage into a home gym. You can easily turn a small section of your garage into a gym/studio by adding a few key pieces of equipment and a mirror.

2. Game Room

If you’re looking for a fun way to use your garage, consider turning it into a game room. Hang a TV and add a few gaming consoles or set up a foosball table. This is the perfect spot for hosting game nights with friends or family.

3. Partial Home Office

Are you out of space in your home but need a quiet spot to work? A garage can easily be converted into a home office with a few simple changes. To make the space quiet, consider installing insulation and adding a door to close off the office from the rest of the garage.

Photo: Chad @ExtremeHowTo

4. Garage Bar or Pub

Make the most of your garage space by having a little fun and adding a bar. This is the perfect place to watch the game with friends or entertain guests. You can install a wet bar, complete with a sink and mini fridge, or you can set up kegs on tap.

5. Home Brewery

Take your entertaining to the next level by turning part of your garage into a home brewery, aka a brew cave. A garage is a great space for this rewarding hobby, especially if you’ll be working open flame and need a fire-safe space.

6. Party Space

Do you enjoy hosting parties but your home doesn’t have the space? With the right lighting and color scheme, and temporary wall covering, you can distract from the fact that you’re in a garage and have a festive space for your next party.

7. Coffee Roasting

Are you a coffee connoisseur who is ready to delve into becoming a coffee producer? Coffee roasting in the garage can be a fun and rewarding experience. It’s important to have the right equipment and adequate venting.

8. Pet Kennel

When planning your pet kennel, be sure and regulate the temperature and humidity in the garage and plan for adequate space. Depending upon your space and your pet, you could utilize a dog play pen, a covered kennel, or you can build your own using wood and wire mesh.

9. Wood Working Shop

A garage is a great space for your woodworking. To make the most use of your space, have everything on wheels, use the organization ideas we’ve mentioned for storing tools, hardware, and lumber, and make sure you have adequate ventilation.

10. Trophy Room

Take your dull garage and turn it into a trophy room. If you’re a hunter, hang up your hunting trophies on the walls and show off your mount collection. Or if you are an athlete, you can showcase your medals and trophies on the wall, as well.

11. Garage Spa

If you don’t have the outdoor space for a hot tub, you can actually put one in your garage. A hot tub in your garage can provide more temperature control and less upkeep than one outside. If you have the space and follow these important steps, you can enjoy your hot tub all year round.

12. YouTube Studio

If you’re looking for an affordable way to create a professional-grade youtube studio, converting your garage into a studio is a great option. By adding some simple amenities like soundproofing and lighting, you can create a space that’s perfect for filming and recording.

Photo @VideoCreators

13. Man Cave

We had to mention it. If you’re looking for a relaxing space to hang out in, consider turning your garage into a man cave. This can be the ultimate hangout spot for you and your friends, and it’s a great way to make use of extra space in your home.

14. Garage Basketball Court

If have a lot of empty floor space and a vaulted ceiling, you can convert your garage into a basketball court. Simply pull the cars out and you have the entire garage to play ball in.

15. Solar Car Port

If you love the idea of converting your garage but don’t want to leave your car uncovered, install a solar-powered carport. Not only do you have garage space and shade for your vehicles, you are also generating energy from otherwise unused space.

Photo @SolarReviews

Wrap-Up

We hope these ideas will help get your creative juices flowing. The best way to figure out what will work for you is to take a look at your current garage situation and decide what you’d like to change and what will fit within your budget. Then, start brainstorming ways to make that happen.

With a little bit of planning and some elbow grease, you can transform your garage into the perfect space for your needs. So what are you waiting for? Get started today!

About the Author

Brian Adkisson of briandkisson.com and followthebuilds.com has 25 years in the restomod business. You can usually find him working in his garage or behind a camera filming a YouTube video. He lives in Fort Worth, TX with his wife and daughters.