From Garage To Comfy Rec Room

For one Southern California family, what began as a simple plan for a casual playroom for the kids soon evolved into a sophisticated media room for all ages. The article below highlights the importance of keeping an open mind during the renovation process, as flexibility in design can lead to a space that far exceeds initial expectations.

Creating a Space To Relax

The renovation of this 437-square-foot garage was a masterclass in efficient space utilization. The designers created a multifunctional room for various purposes without altering the building’s footprint. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes:

1. Carriage-style doors allow the space to function as a garage in the future while providing a more visually pleasing exterior.
2. A new wall creates a narrow storage room accessible only from the outside. This clever addition provides a dedicated space for sports equipment and a second full-size refrigerator, keeping the main rec room uncluttered.
3. Pocket doors were installed to open the family room to the pool area, effectively doubling the space’s functionality as a cabana.

These strategic modifications spotlight how thoughtful design can maximize the potential of any space. The attention to detail and clever solutions resulted in a beautiful, practical room that perfectly met the family’s needs.

Media Room for Grown-Ups

The journey from garage to rec room often takes unexpected turns, as this family discovered. “When we started, we wanted a place for the kids to play their Wii Sports, which takes a lot of room,” says the wife. The infrequently used outbuilding near the pool offered a perfect solution. Designer and builder Debra Kinner took on the challenge, implementing several fundamental changes to create a functional and stylish space. Here’s what Kinner did to begin with:

• Replaced overhead doors with carriage-style units from Real Carriage Door Co.
• Built a removable wall to create a narrow storage area accessible from outside
• Installed a ceiling and finished walls with insulation and wallboard
• Constructed an insulated subfloor for added comfort
• Added custom built-ins, a beverage fridge, and wiring for media equipment

As the project progressed, the couple decided to elevate the space further, maximizing its potential for pool parties and adult gatherings. Interior designer Allison Tannenbaum helped refine the look, introducing natural-textured finishes like sea-grass carpet and grass-cloth wallpaper. The result is a cozy, elegant room that seamlessly blends functionality and style.

“We love it,” says the wife. “It really completes our home.”

Under-Counter Fridge

One thoughtful addition to the new rec room is an under-counter refrigerator. This practical feature eliminates the need for family members to return to the main house for refreshments. Stocked with bottled water and other beverages, it helps everyone stay hydrated during extended gaming sessions or movie marathons.

The fridge’s strategic placement contributes significantly to the room’s efficiency. Keeping drinks close at hand minimizes interruptions and maintains the flow of activities, whether it’s an intense video game competition or a relaxed gathering of friends. Having refreshments readily available enhances the overall convenience and utility of the space.

Divided-Light Pocket Doors

The installation of Westside Door & Moulding divided-light pocket doors on one side of the room showcases functionality and style. These doors serve multiple purposes:

• Create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces
• Allow easy access to the patio and pool area
• Enhance the room’s natural light and ventilation
• Provide a stylish architectural element that complements the overall design

Adjacent to the pocket doors, built-in cabinets offer convenient storage for towels, board games, and pool supplies. The thoughtful design effectively ties together the home’s interior and exterior living spaces, creating an inviting and seamless environment.

Trio of TV Screens

The centerpiece of this media room is undoubtedly the trio of TV screens. This dynamic setup caters to the couple’s love of sports and the children’s gaming needs. The multiple screens allow for a variety of activities:

• Hosting impressive Super Bowl parties
• Following two games simultaneously
• Enabling kids to play Wii basketball or bowling while adults watch their preferred content

This versatile arrangement allows the room to accommodate various activities and preferences simultaneously. This makes it a family-friendly space that appeals to all ages and provides everyone with something to enjoy.

What It Looked like “Before”

Before the renovation, the freestanding garage at the far end of the property saw little use. Its potential was largely untapped, serving as occasional storage rather than a functional living space. The transformation from this underutilized structure to a vibrant rec room demonstrates the possibilities inherent in reimagining existing spaces. Changing a garage into a living area can provide additional space and a valuable enhancement for the house.

TOH Pro Advice: Debra Kinner, designer/builder from Santa Monica, California, offers a valuable tip: “When finishing a garage, consider raising and insulating the floor before carpeting. It’ll feel much more comfortable underfoot.” This advice can significantly enhance the comfort and utility of the transformed space.

Our Conclusion

You can create a space that seamlessly blends indoor comfort with outdoor living by incorporating elements like multi-functional doors, smart storage solutions, and adaptable entertainment systems. The journey from an underused garage to a vibrant rec room showcases the endless possibilities inherent in reimagining your home.