A garage apartment is a living space created within the main section of a garage or is constructed over the garage area on a second floor. Apartments of this type are sometimes included in the original apartment garage plans, although they are more often added to the original structure at a later date. Generally compact in size, garage apartments can serve as cozy living quarters for relatives, or as a way of generating a secondary income by renting out the space.
Garage apartments are usually constructed with all the features that are associated with any type of living quarters. The apartment will have plumbing and electrical wiring similar to that found in any type of apartment. Often, the kitchen is built for efficiency and will take up only a small amount of floor space. Bathrooms in garage apartments are usually constructed to include a lavatory, toilet, and a shower. The bathroom is likely to be compact and functional, with relatively few decorating accents other than the wall color.
With above-garage apartments, the dwelling will have a stairwell that allows people to easily access the upstairs apartment. In some designs, the stairwell is housed in the bottom floor of the garage. More commonly, the stairs are located on the exterior of the garage and lead up to a small landing by the main entrance to the apartment. Depending on local housing codes, the apartment may also be equipped with a rear entrance.
Some garage apartments are single floor edifices that are created by converting a basic garage into living space. When this is the case, the interior walls are usually insulated and covered with paneling, sheet rock, or some other materials to give the space a finished look. The design may be an open floor plan, with various areas of the interior designated for sleeping, eating, and entertaining. Plumbing and power connections are often installed during the renovation, making it possible to create a galley kitchen along one wall as well as install a basic bathroom.
Garage apartments are ideal living arrangements for many single individuals who want a home that is easy to care for while still enjoying all the basic amenities, but not at the prices charged by most apartment complexes. Apartments of this type are also helpful when relatives come to visit or to live for a period of time. Since the apartment is separate from the main house, the owner and tenant can still enjoy their privacy while also having the option to socialize as much or as little as they prefer.
