What’s the best way to design and decorate a shabby chic garage?
As any DIYer with a garage knows, the garage is more than just a place to park your car; it's a versatile space that holds the potential to be organized to accommodate your personal interests.
With the right layout, your garage can become an efficient and enjoyable space that meets all your practical needs while also letting you pursue hobbies or even start a side hustle. Whether you're in the process of a garage remodel or looking to makeover your existing one, these are the key elements to include in your design:
- Car Parking: The primary function of most garages is to house vehicles. Determine the best positioning for your car that allows ample room for doors to open and for easy access to the house or workspace.
- Paint or Wallpaper: Select a color or pattern that sets the desired mood for the garage and complements the shabby chic style you want to achieve. We are partial to covering walls, ceilings, and trim in a uniform paint color to create a cohesive look. Or consider an accent wall to serve as a focal point.
- Storage Solutions: Garages often serve as a storage hub for various items, from gardening tools and sports equipment to all those seasonal decorations you’re hoarding (we’re not here to judge). Consider incorporating a mix of storage solutions like tool chests, cabinets, pegboards, and wall-mounted racks. This will help keep your tools organized and within reach, while cabinets can hide away less frequently used items or those that need to be kept out of sight (and out of reach from kiddos or furry friends), such as cleaning supplies, automotive fluids, extra paint cans, or other hazardous materials.
- Workbench: For the DIY enthusiasts, a sturdy workbench is essential. It provides a robust surface for various projects, from woodworking to automotive repairs. Position your workbench in a well-lit area, preferably near a power source, and consider the workflow around the bench to ensure you have enough space for your projects.
- Decorative Lighting: Combine task, ambient, and accent lighting for a layered lighting scheme. Consider the placement of lighting fixtures to eliminate shadows and evenly light the space. Dimmer switches can adjust the mood.
By considering these key components and employing a thoughtful layout, your garage can transform into a multi-functional space that supports your lifestyle. Whether you're pulling in your car after a long day or embarking on a new DIY project, your garage will be ready to meet your needs. If you need an extra hand, check out our step-by-step guide on How To Design a Room.
How do you select a color palette for a garage?
Choosing the right color palette for your garage is an exciting (and fun!) process. Incorporating color (or the lack thereof) into a space will dramatically influence the mood and aesthetic. While it may be tempting to hit up your local hardware store to buy a gallon (or two or three) of paint, and go to town, the planning process is an important step. No one wants to repaint a room once the furniture is in. So, here’s the best way to think about incorporating color into your space:
First, set the mood: Before deciding on your color palette, think about the mood or atmosphere you want to create in your garage. Yearning for a calm and serene environment? Or perhaps a vibrant burst of energy? Different colors evoke different emotions, so choose hues that align with the desired mood or vibe of the room. Warm-toned colors (reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks) can make a space feel warm, inviting, and cozy. Cool-toned colors (greens, blues, purples, grays, and most whites) can make a room feel grounded, calming, and clean. But, using too many warm colors can make a room feel closed off, and too many cool tones in one room can make a space feel cold and unwelcoming. Neutral colors (blacks, whites, and browns) add a sense of sophistication and professionalism to a space.
Then, choose a color scheme: Now for the fun part! Once you’ve selected the mood, you can start to build your color palette. Take into account existing furniture and decor elements. Choose colors that complement or skillfully contrast your furnishings to create a cohesive look. A handy tip to a cohesive color story? Use the 60-30-10 rule as your guide. The dominant color (60%) sets the tone, the secondary color (30%) adds depth, and the accent color (10%) brings a pop of interest. Your dominant color in your color palette may be the color you choose to paint your walls or the color of a large area rug. Your secondary color may be used for upholstery or statement furniture. And for that final touch, the accent color brings a spark and is usually found in artworks, cushions, or decorative pieces. If you’re going for a monochromatic color scheme, consider the 60-30-10 rule in terms of shades of color.
Finally, find balance and contrast: Once you’re ready to start applying color in the garage design with paint or decorative touches, achieving the right balance between colors in your color palette is crucial. Consider the visual weight of each color and distribute them evenly throughout the space. Neutral colors are often paired with brighter accent colors to contrast a space. Pairing complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel) or juxtaposing shades of light and dark can enrich your design with depth and complexity.
While some colors are more popular than others for certain rooms or design styles, pick a color palette that feels right to you. Interior design is all about self expression. You do you. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to express your unique style. Want more interior design color tips? Check out our free online interior design course on Color Theory.
How do you pick a design style for a garage makeover?
Picking an interior design style for your garage is a personal and immersive journey. It starts with introspection and an exploration of your aesthetic preferences, daily habits, and the overall ambiance you wish to create. We recommend the garage style match nicely with the rest of your house. Consider the architecture of your home, the flow of natural light, and how the space is used to ensure the design style not only looks appealing but also serves your needs effectively. The goal is to create a space that feels inviting, comfortable, and uniquely “you”.
There is no right or wrong way to define your style. Start by gathering ideas and inspiration. Identify what colors, moods, and materials you are drawn to. Are you drawn to the clean lines of modern design? The warmth of rustic charm? The rich textures of bohemian flair? Or the sleek functionality of minimalism? Your chosen style should resonate with your personality and make your space feel like a true extension of yourself.
There are dozens of design styles. One style may speak to you the most and you’ll be ready to go all in (do it!). If not, mixing elements from different styles can yield a unique, eclectic look that’s distinctly yours. Need some help defining your style? We created our own design style quiz to help you learn more about what you gravitate towards in design. The result is like the perfect blend of your personality and home. Take the quiz and your Spoak Sign be your inspiration.
Once you know the design style you want to achieve for your garage makeover, the fun begins! You can start planning out your color scheme and decor ideas.
What materials and home decor should I use to achieve a shabby chic garage design?
Shabby chic interior design style combines the old and the new to create a romantic and feminine atmosphere. The style embraces imperfections, with weathered finishes and repurposed items adding character and charm. Floral motifs, delicate lace, and gentle ruffles are hallmark features of a shabby chic aesthetic (lookup LoveShackFancy for inspo).
To infuse your garage with a shabby chic aesthetic, choose a soft color palette of whites and creams, or pastel colors like lilac or baby pink. Central to achieving the shabby chic look is the use of distressed furniture that tells a story of time, complemented by an array of vintage textiles and patterns that add depth and character. Think: toile wallpaper, floral drapery, and ruffled upholstery. Then layer in vintage or antique heirloom decorative pieces to complete the look.