Make a garage into living space
- coraliefortin076
- Jun 30, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 18, 2025
In Quebec, rising real estate prices, combined with growing demands for space, are pushing more and more homeowners to explore creative solutions for expanding their homes. Converting a garage into living space is a practical, cost-effective, and quick way to add living space without having to move. Whether creating a home office, an additional bedroom, a rental unit, or even a separate studio, this approach offers numerous advantages.
At Plan Maison Québec, we support our clients in designing custom plans for garage conversions, ensuring a transformation that complies with building codes and the specific needs of each project.
In this article, we will explain in detail the steps required to successfully complete this transformation, the associated costs, and why working with experts like Plan Maison Québec is essential to ensuring the success of your project.
The benefits of converting your garage into living space in Quebec
The idea of converting a garage into living space is becoming increasingly popular among Quebecers. First, a garage represents an existing space, which saves on the cost of foundations and exterior walls, often costly elements when opting for a traditional extension. Furthermore, this transformation allows you to maximize the use of available space without encroaching on your land, while increasing the value of your property.
One of the reasons for the popularity of this conversion is the evolution of lifestyles. With the rise of remote working and independent work, many families are looking to create a private, yet multifunctional, space at home. A garage can be transformed into a home office, a workshop, an additional bedroom for guests, or even an apartment for a teenager or elderly parent.
Finally, some homeowners choose to convert their garage into a rental property. This option allows you to generate passive income, which is particularly beneficial in urban areas where housing demand is high. Whatever your project, garage conversion can help meet your needs while adding value to your property.
The key steps to successful transformation
1. Study the feasibility of the project
Before undertaking any work, it's essential to check the feasibility of your project. Municipal bylaws may impose restrictions on construction or changing the use of part of the house. Some cities, for example, require that the remaining space always be able to accommodate a parking space. Other bylaws may govern the surface area you can develop or the types of alterations permitted, particularly if you plan to convert your garage into a separate living area.
This is why consulting an expert, such as Plan Maison Québec, is essential from the outset. We will help you understand the regulations in effect in your municipality and prepare all the necessary steps to obtain a renovation permit. Depending on local requirements, you may need to adapt your plans to meet safety or aesthetic criteria.
2. Plan the layout of the space
Once you've checked the administrative feasibility, it's time to think about the layout. A garage generally lacks the necessary infrastructure to accommodate a habitable space. For example, it often lacks insulation, windows, and adequate ventilation systems.
A design plan must be carefully considered down to the smallest detail: room layout, choice of materials, light sources, storage options, heating and ventilation systems, etc. Plan Maison Québec supports you in this process by creating personalized layout plans, optimizing the use of available space, and respecting your needs and budget.
3. Insulation and waterproofing
One of the first steps to making a garage habitable is to effectively insulate the walls, floor, and ceiling. Garages are often not designed to withstand temperature fluctuations, making them cold in winter and hot in summer. Adding quality insulation (such as mineral wool or foam insulation) is essential to ensure optimal thermal comfort. This step is also important for improving your home's energy efficiency and reducing your heating costs.
Airtightness is also crucial to prevent moisture from seeping in, which can lead to mold growth. Particular attention should be paid to the seals around windows and doors, as well as any cracks in the walls. A good insulation and sealing system will ensure a comfortable and healthy space for the whole family.
4. Electrical, plumbing and heating systems
Another key element of a garage conversion is the integration of the electrical, plumbing, and heating systems. To transform your garage into a truly habitable space, you'll likely need to add additional electrical outlets, install recessed lighting, or specialized outlets for appliances. Plumbing is also a common addition, especially if you're converting your garage into a bathroom or kitchen.
If the garage is intended to be a rental unit or a separate suite, consider installing a standalone heating system, such as electric underfloor heating or a wall-mounted convector heater. This allows you to avoid relying on the home's main heating system and better regulate the temperature of the space.
5. Arrange the space according to your needs
Depending on the intended use of your converted garage, the layout must be designed with functionality in mind. A home office requires natural light, electrical outlets for electronics, and optimal furniture layout. A rental studio, on the other hand, will require a kitchenette, a private bathroom, and a separate entrance, depending on local regulations.
The choice of materials and finishes must also be considered to ensure the durability and comfort of your space. Flooring such as hardwood or vinyl can be chosen for their aesthetic appeal and ease of maintenance. Windows and doors should be both insulating and aesthetically pleasing, while also allowing maximum natural light into the interior.
Budget for converting a garage: what do you need to plan for?
The cost of converting a garage into living space can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the garage, the work required, the materials chosen, and the intended use of the new space. On average, here are the costs you can expect:
For a basic conversion, including insulation, interior siding, flooring, and adding windows, costs range between $25,000 and $40,000.
If you add a bathroom or kitchen, costs can quickly increase, and you can expect to budget between $40,000 and $60,000.
For a complete conversion into a self-contained studio or rental unit, costs can reach $60,000 to $90,000, or even more, depending on the complexity of the project.
It's important to factor in additional costs, such as building permits, architect or engineer fees, and utility connection costs. Finishing touches, such as purchasing furniture or appliances, should also be included in your overall budget.
Conclusion : Why choose Plan Maison Québec?
Transforming your garage into a living space is an ambitious but achievable project, provided you have the right support. By choosing Plan Maison Québec, you benefit from the expertise of a team of professionals who will guide you throughout the process, from design to completion. We'll help you maximize available space, comply with current standards and regulations, and ensure your new space is not only functional but also a pleasant place to live.
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