Innovative Design Ideas for Metal Garages with Living Quarters

The popularity of steel garages with living quarters has increased, especially in rural areas where space is not an issue. A metal garage with living space is a cost-effective way to add a guest house or rental property to your land. It is also an excellent way to add extra living space to your home while keeping the garage for its original purpose.

But, a living space in a metal garage is not just about functionality. It is also about style and design.

If you are also looking for some innovative design ideas for prefab garages with living quarters, below are some tips that will definitely help you.

Creative Storage Solutions

Garages with living quarters often require creative storage solutions to maximize the limited space. Here are some innovative ideas for storage:

Utilizing Vertical Space for Storage: When it comes to storage in metal garages, don’t forget to look up! Vertical space can be a lifesaver when you’re short on square footage.

Installing tall shelving units, cabinets, and bookcases can help you utilize the vertical space in your living quarters. Consider using adjustable shelving units to accommodate items of various sizes.

Built-in Storage Solutions: Built-in storage solutions can be a great way to use every inch of space. You can also use the space under the stairs for storage or build storage units in the loft or attic space.

Hidden Storage Spaces: Another way to maximize storage space in your custom garage with living quarters is to create hidden storage spaces.

E.g., you can build a bench with storage underneath or use a coffee table with built-in storage.

Installing drawers under the bed is another great way to maximize storage space while keeping items out of sight.

Stylish Design Features

Industrial Design: Don’t be afraid to embrace the industrial aesthetic when designing your prefab garage with living quarters. Exposed brick walls, concrete floors, and metal finishes can all add to the industrial feel of the space.

Rustic Design: Rustic design is also a popular choice for metal garages with living spaces. You can incorporate natural materials like wood or stone to create a warm and inviting space.

Rustic design features like barn doors or reclaimed wood accents can add a touch of charm to the space.

Modern Design: If you prefer a more modern aesthetic, you can use sleek, minimalist design features to create a contemporary living space. Use neutral colors, clean lines, and geometric shapes for a modern look.

Functional Outdoor Living Space

Covered Patio: A covered patio can greatly extend your living space and create a functional outdoor area.

You can install a covered patio adjacent to your metal garage building and use it for outdoor entertaining or relaxation. Consider adding comfortable outdoor furniture and lighting to make the space feel cozy and inviting.

Outdoor Kitchen: If you enjoy cooking and entertaining, consider installing an outdoor kitchen. You can install a grill, sink, and countertop into the design to create a functional and stylish outdoor cooking space.

Landscaping: Landscaping can help tie together the design of your steel garage with living quarters and create a beautiful outdoor space.

Energy-Efficient Design

Utilizing Natural Lighting and Ventilation:

• Large windows and skylights can bring natural light into the living space and reduce the need for artificial lighting.
• Properly placed windows and doors can allow for natural ventilation, reducing the need for air conditioning and improving indoor air quality.
• Light-colored roofing material can reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption and keeping the interior cooler.

Energy-Efficient Appliances and Lighting:

• Energy-efficient appliances can reduce energy consumption and lower electricity bills.
• LED lighting can provide bright, efficient lighting while using less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
• Motion sensor lighting can automatically turn off when not in use, saving energy and money.

Insulation and Weatherproofing for Optimal Energy Efficiency:

• Proper insulation can help regulate indoor temperature and reduce the need for heating and cooling.
• Sealing air leaks and weatherproofing doors and windows can prevent drafts and reduce energy waste.
• Energy-efficient roofing and siding materials can improve insulation and reduce energy loss.

Outdoor Living Spaces

Metal garages with living quarters can offer excellent opportunities for designing unique and functional outdoor living spaces. Here are some ideas to consider:

Utilizing Outdoor Spaces for Relaxation and Entertainment: One of the benefits of having a steel garage with living quarters is the ability to use outdoor spaces for relaxation and entertainment.

Consider adding a deck or patio to your garage to create a space for lounging and enjoying the outdoors. A pergola or canopy can provide shade and shelter from the sun and rain.

Designing Functional Outdoor Cooking and Dining Areas: If you enjoy cooking and dining outdoors, consider adding a functional outdoor kitchen or dining area to your metal garage with living quarters.

A built-in grill, sink, and countertop can provide a great space for preparing and serving meals. You can also add a dining table and chairs to create an inviting outdoor dining space.

Incorporating Landscaping and Outdoor Lighting: Incorporating landscaping and outdoor lighting can add a lot of character and ambiance to your outdoor living space. Consider adding plants, flowers, and trees around your garage to create a lush and inviting landscape.

Outdoor lighting can also be used to highlight specific features of your garage and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere at night. Solar-powered lights are an excellent option for eco-friendly lighting.

Contemporary Design Elements

Metal garages with living quarters are becoming increasingly popular for their durability, versatility, and affordability. One of the key advantages of building a prefab garage with living quarters is the ability to customize its design and functionality according to your specific needs and preferences.

While functionality is essential, you don’t have to sacrifice style for practicality. Here are some innovative design ideas for metal garages with living quarters that incorporate contemporary design elements:

Use of Modern and Sleek Design Elements

The contemporary design emphasizes simplicity, clean lines, and minimalism. One way to achieve a modern look is to incorporate sleek design elements such as smooth surfaces, polished finishes, and simple geometric shapes.

For example, you can choose metal cabinets with minimalist handles, concrete floors with a polished finish, and modern lighting fixtures with clean lines.

Incorporating Industrial Materials and Textures: Industrial materials and textures are popular in contemporary design. By incorporating materials such as metal, concrete, and exposed brick, you can create a modern, industrial look that is both functional and stylish.

For example, you can use metal pipes as shelving brackets or metal panels as wall coverings to add texture and interest to the space.

Creative use of Color and Patterns: Contemporary design doesn’t mean you have to stick to a monochromatic color scheme. Incorporating bold colors and patterns can add interest and personality to your living quarters.

Consider adding a colorful accent wall or patterned wallpaper to add visual interest to the space. Just be sure to balance bold colors and patterns with neutral tones to avoid overwhelming the space.

Accessibility and Safety

When designing a metal garage with living spaces, accessibility and safety are crucial factors. Here are some innovative design ideas to make your space more accessible, safe, and low maintenance.

Incorporating Universal Design Elements for Accessibility: Universal design is all about creating spaces that people of all ages can use. Here are some design ideas to make your prefabricated garage more accessible:

• Zero-step entryways: Install an entrance without steps to make it easier for people to enter and exit the garage.
• Wide doorways and hallways: Ensure your doorways are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility aids.
• Lever handles: Use lever handles on doors instead of traditional doorknobs, which can be difficult for people with arthritis or limited grip strength.
• Adjustable-height countertops: Install countertops that can be raised or lowered to fit people of different heights or those who use wheelchairs.

Ensuring Safety Features are Incorporated into the Design: Safety is paramount in any living space, and a metal garage is no exception. Here are some safety features to consider:

• Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors: Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the living quarters to ensure your family stays safe from fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Non-slip flooring: Use slip-resistant flooring materials in areas prone to moisture or spills, such as the kitchen and bathroom.
• Adequate lighting: Ensure all garage and living quarters areas are well-lit to prevent trips and fall.
• Fire extinguishers: Keep a fire extinguisher in a convenient location in emergencies.

Easy Maintenance and Cleaning Options: Metal garages are known for their durability and low maintenance, but there are still some things you can do to make cleaning and maintenance easier:

• Seamless flooring: Install seamless garage and living quarters flooring to make cleaning and maintenance easier.
• Durable materials: Use durable materials, such as metal, concrete, and stone, that are easy to clean and maintain.
• Incorporate storage: Ensure you have adequate storage space to keep your belongings organized and off the floor, making cleaning easier.

That said, you can make the best use of metal structures with living quarters. Viking Steel Structures offers premium quality structures at highly affordable prices if you don’t have one.

Buying buildings from Viking Steel Structures encompasses a 20-year rust-through warranty, 10-year panel warranty, and 1-year workmanship warranty on all metal garages you order.

Moreover, you also get easy payment options with us. We provide Rent-to-Own and Financing option that allows you to pay a small upfront to book your metal garage.

So, what are you waiting for? Call 877-801-3263 and discuss your custom garage building requirements.