The Rec Room

Planning on building a rec room in your basement or in that extra bedroom that you have? Sure, that's a great idea if you want to be just like every other homeowner that's hiring general contractors to update their living space. If you've got a lot of desire but limited home space for making a rec room or media room for your family then turn your attention elsewhere - like the garage.

A finished garage is a hip way to revitalize your home and create an entertainment "addition". It's a natural choice because the architecture and framework is already in place and in many cases - so is the electricity. The cost of finishing a garage is relatively cheap depending on your overall plans for the space and in some cases can cost less than finishing your basement. There's also less worry about water damage and moisture in a finished garage. Not sure of what you could do with your garage space? Check out some of these design ideas from general contractors around the nation:

Start with Basics

Shoot for the things that mean the most when it comes down to style and design in a finished area. With a garage, you want to have the option to turn it BACK into a garage from the new living space. A drop ceiling is a good choice, as are insulated walls and wiring for media. Plumbing is a great option because it's within the walls and won't interfere with a working garage at a later time.

An insulated and well-constructed subfloor can even be installed. If properly installed, it can support the weight of vehicles in the future. With the subfloor in place you can use any flooring you like - just base your decision on whether or not this is a permanent change in your garage.

A Space for Appliances

You don't have to make a space in your media room for a full size fridge (unless you're the party type) but it pays to make a spot for an under-counter fridge when you put some counter and cabinet systems into your rec room. This is especially true if you're planning to add any kind of a wet bar. Having a fridge in your media room means you and the family won't have to jog into the house for cold bottled water or a drink during the game.

Add the Right Doors

Most garage spaces aren't designed for much more than a vehicle or two and some workspace. If you have a smaller garage you may be limited in your floor plan so using the right doors will give you the most benefit to your design. For the garage door, keep that wall open and use French doors and simple wall panels when finishing the space. This makes it easy to change things back over to a garage in the future. For other access, such as to a patio or pool area, use pocket doors that eat up less floor space.

Custom Cabinetry and Entertainment Centers

The limited floor plan can get gummed up quickly with cabinets and wet bar space, an entertainment center, book storage or console, movie and game storage. Instead of investing in additional furniture, have a general contractor install custom cabinets for each area. The cabinets can function for entertainment purposes and - if need be at a later time - be turned into normal garage storage.

Think smart when you're working with a general contractor to design a new space in your home. When you get creative, such as turning a rarely-used garage into a rec room - you're investing in your living space. The return comes when it's time to sell the property and perhaps relocate. Should you never sell, you have a great place to get away from the norm of the house and settle into a nice secluded area perfect for you or the whole family.

If you are looking for a remodeling contractor or replaement windows in the Palm Beach area, please call 561-798-5722 or complete our online request form.