Summer’s almost here, and there’s no better time to give your garage a glow-up. With a few smart garage home improvement ideas, you can turn that underused space into a cool, comfortable retreat for the whole whānau.
Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, setting up a kids’ play zone, or just need somewhere to escape the summer heat, a summer garage makeover can make it happen. This guide will show you how to transform your garage into a space that’s comfortable, practical, and built for summer living.
Before you jump into your summer garage makeover, it’s worth taking stock of the space you’ve got. If it’s full of old tools, boxes, or that broken lawnmower you’ve been “meaning to fix,” now’s the time for a proper clear-out. Organise your garage storage, and you’ll be amazed at how much extra space you uncover once the clutter’s gone.
Once you’ve got some space to breathe, check the essentials: is it dry, well-ventilated, and easy to power? Good airflow and insulation make all the difference once the summer heat rolls in.
Next, think about how you want to use the space. Maybe it’s a cool spot for the whānau to relax, a kids’ play zone, or an extra area for entertaining over the holidays. Whatever you’ve got in mind, make sure the basics are sorted before bringing in furniture or flooring. A clean, comfortable foundation is key to creating a garage that feels like part of your home.
*The data in this infographic comes from the IKEA Life at Home Report 2024 and The Spinoff.
If your garage has been sitting around collecting boxes and cobwebs, it might be time to give it a proper summer upgrade. With a few smart tweaks, you can turn it from a storage zone into a spot the whole whānau will want to hang out in. Here’s how to get it ready for the warmer months.
If you want your garage to feel like part of your home, start from the ground up. Garage carpet completely changes the look and feel of the space. It’s warm underfoot, soft enough for kids to play on, and tough enough to handle the car. It’s also easy to clean after a BBQ or birthday party. Once it’s down, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
A bit of airflow goes a long way. A simple pedestal fan, wall vent, or portable air conditioner will help keep things fresh when the summer heat hits. If you’ve got the door open, even better, that indoor-outdoor flow is perfect for gatherings and lazy afternoons.
Garages are notorious for bad lighting, so switch things up. Try LED strip lighting, hanging lamps, or warm overhead bulbs. Add a few power points while you’re at it, handy for plugging in a fridge, speaker, or the occasional karaoke setup when the whānau visits.
Nothing kills the mood faster than a stuffy, overheated garage. Adding a bit of insulation to your garage door (and sealing up any gaps) helps keep things cooler in summer and warmer in winter. It’s a small job that makes a big difference to comfort, and stops all the hot air and mozzies sneaking in.
Make it your own. A few comfy chairs, a fold-out table, some wall shelves, and you’ve suddenly got a space that’s practical and relaxed. Whether it’s a play zone for the kids, a chill spot for friends, or just somewhere to escape the heat, your summer-ready garage will quickly become everyone’s favourite room.
Once your garage is looking fresh and ready, it’s time to put it to work. The beauty of a well-set-up garage is how easily it can switch between parking, play, and party mode, perfect for busy Kiwi households and summer gatherings:
Your garage can be as flexible as you need it to be; practical by day, party-ready by night.
A little effort goes a long way when it comes to transforming your garage. With a clean floor, a few clever upgrades, and a touch of creativity, you can turn it into the ultimate summer hangout space.
If you’re ready to make it happen, The ProGroup can help! Get in touch with your local ProGroup team today and get your garage summer-ready.
