Garage conversions
Unlock the Potential of Your Garage
At 1st Builders Cambridge, we specialise in turning unused or cluttered garages into practical, comfortable and attractive rooms that enhance both your lifestyle and your property’s value.
Many households find that the garage becomes little more than a cold storage area for tools, boxes or old furniture. By converting it, you can unlock its full potential. Over the years, we’ve created home offices for remote working, guest bedrooms with ensuite facilities, stylish playrooms for children, and even modern kitchens. We also carry out part-conversions, where part of the garage is adapted into a utility or bathroom while the front remains as useful storage space.
Our team oversee every detail, from insulation and heating to plumbing, electrics and decoration. We make sure the new room feels like a natural extension of your home. Most conversions do not require planning permission, and if approvals are needed, we handle the process with your local authority on your behalf. With careful attention to detail, we even match the brickwork so the final result looks as though it has always been part of your home.
Our Garage Conversion Services Include:
- Free Consultation & Quote – A no-obligation assessment of your garage’s potential and the best options for conversion.
- Design & Layout Planning – Expert advice on how to make the most of the space, tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
- Full Conversions & Part-Conversions – From complete transformations to dual-purpose spaces that retain storage.
- All Trades Covered – We manage plumbing, electrics, insulation, flooring and decoration, ensuring a seamless process.
- Built to UK Standards – Every project meets current building regulations and is completed to a high-quality finish.
Home Offices & Guest Rooms
We can transform your garage into a quiet home office or a welcoming guest bedroom. With full insulation, heating and quality finishes, the space becomes practical and comfortable year-round. Whether for remote working, studying or hosting visitors, this is a simple and cost-effective way to add real value to your home.
Playrooms & Living Areas
We create safe playrooms for children or extra living areas for the whole family. With proper insulation, heating and durable finishes, the new room is comfortable all year round. It’s a cost-effective way to expand your home and gain versatile living space without the expense and stress of moving house.
Part-Conversions & Upgrades
Not every garage needs a full conversion. We can adapt part of the space into a bathroom, utility or office while keeping storage at the front. Upgrades such as underfloor heating, improved insulation and ventilation ensure the room is modern, efficient and built to last, giving you both practicality and comfort.
FAQ
How long does a garage conversion usually take?
Most garage conversions take 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the size of the garage and the scope of work. A simple conversion with basic insulation and finishes is quicker, while projects involving plumbing, electrics or structural changes take longer. We’ll always provide you with a clear timescale before starting.
Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion?
In most cases, planning permission is not required, as garage conversions usually fall under permitted development. However, if your property is listed, in a conservation area, or if you are changing the exterior significantly, permission may be needed. We can advise you and, if necessary, handle the application with your local authority.
Will my garage conversion meet building regulations?
Yes, all garage conversions must comply with UK building regulations, covering insulation, ventilation, fire safety and electrics. We liaise with building control on your behalf and ensure the new space is safe, efficient and fully certified once completed.
Can part of my garage remain as storage?
Yes, part-conversions are very popular. Many clients choose to convert the rear of the garage into a living area, bathroom or office while keeping the front for bicycles, tools or machinery. This is a cost-effective option that gives you the best of both worlds.
What types of rooms can a garage be converted into?
A converted garage can become almost any type of room – a home office, guest bedroom, playroom, utility room, gym, cinema room or even a kitchen. We’ll help you choose the best use of the space to suit your property and lifestyle.