Garages renovated into living space

16:05:20 24th May 2010

Garages are increasingly being renovated into studies, bedrooms and utility rooms instead of storing cars as is tradition.

Santander Mortgages revealed on May 21st that at least 1.1 million outdoor buildings have been converted into a living space and that most British homeowners believe this will add value to their homes.

Around 650,000 garages have been transformed while over 470,000 have been earmarked for the change.

Phil Cliff, director of mortgages at Santander, said: "For many people garages have lost their original purpose

"For a relatively modest investment garages can be transformed into a space that far better matches our current needs. For many homeowners maximising their current space is a far more affordable and convenient option than moving home."

With the increasing popularity of homeworking, about 270,000 garages have been changed into offices while 29 per cent are now bedrooms and 20 per cent are used for storage.

On April 30th Cuprinol Sprayable revealed that 77 per cent of men own a garden shed and spend at least a week in residence over the course of the year.

Find out more information about outdoor buildings.