Have you ever wondered what it takes to convert a garage into a comfortable living space? In this article, we’re going to share the story of how we successfully transformed a garage into a rumpus room in Auckland, New Zealand. Along the way, we’ll shed light on the various steps involved in such a project.
The case study: a garage transformed into a rumpus room
Turning a garage into a rumpus room is no small feat. But for Colin, a full-time IT developer, and his family, it was a project that held great significance. The goal was clear: convert the downstairs garage into a comfortable living space for their older son, who needed a place of his own while still residing at home.
Goals and aspirations
Colin envisioned a rumpus room that would cater to his son’s need for independence and comfort. The space needed to be warm, cosy and inviting – a place to study, relax, and enjoy privacy. With these goals in mind, Colin wanted the conversion to include several key features:
- Bathroom: For convenience and privacy, the new space would have its own bathroom.
- Utility space: Colin wanted a utility area within the room, including a laundry space.
- Bedroom: A dedicated area for a bed was essential to make the rumpus room a complete living space.
- Budget and fixed-price quote: Colin was conscious of not overcapitalising on the property. He sought a fixed-price quote to ensure budget control.
- Professional Assistance: Colin hired professionals to manage the entire conversion process due to his busy work schedule. This would enable him to focus on his career while experts took care of the details.
The challenges
Every project has its challenges, and Colin’s garage conversion was no exception. One of the primary issues was ensuring that the space met the necessary building codes and regulations. This was essential to guarantee safety, compliance, and the comfort of the occupants.
Colin had to upgrade the garage significantly before it could be used as a living space. The original state of the garage was not suitable for habitation. Therefore, Colin had to install insulation, replace the windows with double glazing, and add a new wardrobe, sink and ensuite. Despite these challenges, his top priority was to stay within budget while addressing the necessary upgrades.
Budget control with a fixed-price quote
Colin decided to reduce the financial risks and manage the budget efficiently by choosing a fixed-price quote for the project. This approach helped him have a clear idea of the project’s total costs from the start and avoid any unexpected surprises.
Professional expertise and a streamlined process
Being a full-time IT developer, Colin recognised the value of hiring professionals to manage the project. With his busy schedule, he needed a streamlined process to handle every conversion aspect, from obtaining the necessary permits to completing the renovation.
Working with experts saved Colin valuable time and energy and provided peace of mind, knowing that the project was in capable hands.
Before and after
“A picture is worth a thousand words,” as they say, and the transformation speaks volumes in Colin’s garage conversion. The once-empty garage has become a warm and inviting rumpus room, featuring all the amenities and comfort Colin envisioned for his son.
The garage’s metamorphosis into a living space is a testament to vision, planning, and professional workmanship. It showcases how a simple garage can be transformed into a functional and valuable addition to a home.
Next, we’ll delve into the planning, construction, interior design and final inspections that brought this project to life. Stay tuned to learn more about the detailed journey from garage to dream room.
Planning and permits: turning dreams into reality
Before embarking on the exciting journey of converting a garage into a habitable space, it’s crucial to understand that this transformation comes with rules and regulations. In New Zealand, as in many other places, converting a garage into a living area requires building consent approval from the local council. This is a critical step in ensuring that the project meets your vision and complies with safety and building standards.
For Colin and his family, the process began with a vision of a cosy rumpus room where their son could have a space of his own. They needed to navigate the intricate world of planning and permits to turn this vision into reality. Here’s how they did it.
Choosing the right expertise
The first decision was to hire a professional who could assist with the planning and permit process. In their case, they opted for a draftsperson rather than an architect. Why? Because their project was relatively simple and straightforward, and they wanted to be mindful of costs. A draftsperson possesses the skills and knowledge needed to create detailed plans for your project. This makes them an excellent choice for smaller, uncomplicated renovations like this one.
Collaborating with the draftsperson
With their draftsperson on board, Colin and his family shared their vision and requirements. They provided a brief that outlined their goals for the converted garage. The draftsperson then set to work, creating detailed plans that would serve as the blueprint for the project. These plans captured the family’s vision and addressed structural and safety considerations.
The approval process
Once the plans were finalised, it was time to seek the all-important building consent approval from the local council. This step is where the dreams meet reality, and the project officially takes shape. The plans and any required documentation were submitted to the council for review and approval.
In Colin’s case, the planning process took approximately three months from start to finish. This timeline included decision-making periods for the homeowner and the time needed for the council’s processing.
Your Project’s Journey
Every garage conversion project has its unique characteristics and requirements. However, the planning and permit process are critical and often share similar steps, regardless of the project’s complexity. Working closely with professionals who can guide you through this journey is essential. This is the way to ensure that your project aligns with your vision while adhering to the necessary regulations.
As Colin and his family discovered, taking the time to plan and secure the proper permits is an investment in the success of your project. It ensures that your new living space is comfortable, functional, safe, and compliant with local building codes.
Read on for more on Colin’s garage conversion journey, exploring how he addressed other challenges and brought his dream of a rumpus room to life for his son Mark.
Design and layout: crafting the perfect rumpus room
With the necessary permits in place, it was time to transform the garage into a comfortable and functional rumpus room. Colin understood the importance of thoughtful design and layout, and had a clear vision for the space.
Insulation for year-round comfort
Colin wanted to ensure that the newly converted room would be comfortable all year round. To achieve this, one of the first considerations was insulation. With New Zealand’s varying temperatures, insulation is key to maintaining a cosy atmosphere. They opted for R2.4 battens insulation, which was added to the walls. This high-quality insulation will keep the room warm in the winter and cool in the summer, making it an ideal year-round living space.
Windows that welcome natural light
Double-glazed windows were installed to brighten the room and create an inviting ambience. These windows not only allow natural light to flood the space but also enhance energy efficiency, helping to keep the room’s temperature comfortable. As a result, the once-dark garage was transformed into a bright and airy living area.
Acoustic insulation for peace and privacy
Colin recognised that harmonious living within the home was vital. To prevent noise and music from travelling between the upstairs and downstairs areas, R3.6 acoustic insulation and GIB noise control systems were installed. This thoughtful addition ensures that the rest of the family can go about daily activities without disturbing Mark in his new space and vice versa.
Optimising the space
Colin and his family made several strategic choices to maximise the room’s functionality. First, they incorporated a laundry room within the rumpus room. This space-saving solution adds convenience and makes the most of the available square footage.
The electrical system also received a much-needed upgrade. This involved running new power lines, and installing a new switchboard with RCD (Residual Current Device) protection for the entire house. This upgrade ensures electrical safety and provides the capacity to handle the increased demand from the new living space.
Creating a multifunctional haven
The result of these design and layout decisions is a multifunctional haven. Colin’s son now has his private space for studying, relaxing and spending time with friends. The laundry room makes chores a breeze, and the room’s year-round comfort means it can be enjoyed in all seasons.
Colin and his family discovered that with careful planning, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality, they could transform a garage into a room that exceeded their expectations. The design and layout choices they made not only made the room functional but also optimised the space for its intended use.
As you embark on your own garage conversion project, remember the importance of thoughtful design, insulation and efficient electrical systems. These elements can turn a simple garage into a versatile, comfortable living space that adds significant value to your home.
Next, we’ll explore how Colin tackled the construction phase and navigated potential challenges to see his project through to completion.
Budgeting: navigating the financial waters
A successful garage conversion project requires careful budgeting and cost management. Colin and his family recognised the importance of staying within their financial means while achieving their dream space.
Managing costs with a fixed-price quote
To ensure budget stability, Colin’s family initially received a fixed-price quote along with the final drawings from the architect, complete with standard fittings. However, their preferences changed to suit their unique style as personal preferences evolved. This adaptability is crucial in the budgeting process.
Estimating your budget
Understanding the budget for your garage conversion can be challenging due to the uniqueness of each project. Our years of experience show that a garage conversion like this typically costs between $80,000 and $150,000. Location, project complexity, material choices, and personal preferences can impact costs.
For those embarking on a similar journey, here’s some advice.
- Start by outlining your project’s specific goals and priorities.
- Obtain quotes from contractors and professionals to gauge accurate cost estimates.
- Allocate a contingency fund for unforeseen expenses, factoring in permit and inspection costs when creating your budget.
Hiring contractors: building the dream team
Selecting the right professionals for your garage conversion is crucial. Colin and his family shared valuable insights to help you make informed choices.
The importance of experience
When hiring a builder, look for someone with experience in garage conversions. Seasoned builders often have their network of experts, including drafting personnel who can expedite the project. In Colin’s case, the draftsperson played a crucial role and delivered the initial plan within a week due to their established working relationship.
Involve trades early in the process
Colin and his team engaged key tradespeople early in the project, including plumbers, electricians and tilers. This collaborative approach allowed them to inspect the project, provide valuable insights during the planning stage, and ensure alignment between the draftsperson’s plans and the trades’ requirements. This proactive involvement helps prevent costly variations later in the project.
Construction process: bringing dreams to life
The construction phase is where the garage conversion truly takes shape. Key milestones and techniques played a vital role in the project’s success.
Frame, insulate, wire, and pipe
The process began with the removal of everything from the garage. Next, they framed the entire interior using 90×45 H1.2 framing, allowing for the addition of 90mm insulation – a crucial step for creating a comfortable living space.
Passing preline inspection
Wires and pipes were installed, passing the preline inspection, a critical stage to ensure safety and compliance.
Installation of GIB, plaster and paint
Subsequently, GIB board was installed, followed by plastering and painting. These steps brought the interior to life, providing a clean canvas for further enhancements.
Tiling, flooring and kitchen installation
Tiling, flooring installation, and the placement of the kitchen came next, transforming the space into a functional living area.
Final touches and accessories
Finally, the finishing touches were added, including door handles, door stops, and other accessories that completed the look and functionality of the room.
Interior design and finishing: creating your sanctuary
Interior design choices are essential for personalising your space. Colin and his family made several thoughtful decisions:
- Tiled flooring for levelling: Tiled flooring helped level the floor, saving on the need for expensive levelling compounds.
- Colour choices: Light-coloured walls and dark carpet brighten and visually expand the space.
- Cavity slider door: The clever design of a cavity slider door for the bathroom maximises the use of space, enhancing the room’s functionality.
Final inspections and approvals: the home stretch
Before the new room could be used as intended, it underwent final inspections and approvals. This is a meticulous process:
- Council’s final inspection: All inspections with Auckland City Council were successfully completed.
- Client walk-through: The project manager conducted a walk-through with the client before the handover.
- Practical completion form: Once all touch-ups were addressed, the client signed the practical completion form.
- Master Builder guarantee: The form was sent to the Master Builder Association to apply for the 10-year Master Builder guarantee sign-off, providing peace of mind and assurance of quality craftsmanship.
Your space, your story
Colin’s garage conversion journey showcases the power of careful planning, expert collaboration, and meticulous work. They transformed a garage into a dream living space by managing the budget effectively, selecting the right professionals, and focusing on quality throughout construction.
As you embark on your own conversion project, remember that it’s not just about enhancing your property’s value. It’s about creating a space that enhances your life. By following these steps and drawing inspiration from Colin’s experience, you can also unlock your home’s potential.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re considering a similar project or have questions about transforming your space. We’re here to help you create the home of your dreams – one project at a time.