Garage Conversions in London

As passionate London-based renovation specialists, at houseUP, we understand sentimental attachment to property. 

As passionate London based renovation specialists, at houseUP we understand sentimental attachment to property. Having over 10 years' experience guiding clients through changes to their homes that involve investments of time, money and emotional dedication, we recognise the difficult dilemma when faced with the realisation that you might be outgrowing your living space. Knowing the property market and the instability of the economic landscape over recent years, choosing to move can be a daunting option, if an option at all. As conversion and extension specialists, we can offer bespoke solutions that will maximise your current living space and therefore remove the potential anxiety and upheaval around finding and moving to a new home.

One of the simplest and most cost effective options is a garage conversion. This additional space offers a wealth of opportunities; storage space, a guest annexe, a home office, home gym or studio to name just a few.

A recent survey conducted by the RAC motoring group estimated that 11 million UK homeowners have a garage. However, only approximately 50% of those garages are used to park a car. Even fewer in London. Mostly, the space is used for storing gardening equipment and furniture, DIY tools, bicycles, boots and camping gear.

Imagine how transforming that under-utilised space could enrich your life and add significant value to your property.

Garage Conversions in London — houseUP London
The first step to converting your garage

The first step to converting your garage 

We enjoy listening to prospective clients with a vision, be it grand or modest, as well as those who come to us with a blank canvas willing to inspired. So we invite you to take advantage of our initial no-obligation consultation and share your thoughts, or apprehensions, for renovation.

Once your needs and expectations have been discussed, an experienced member of our team will carry out a site visit. During this visit, key information will be gathered such as current structure and foundation, dimensions, and potential for circuitry and plumbing installation. After this step, we aim to provide a plan, a budget and a timeline for the project as quickly as possible.

At this stage if required, we can advise you on any administration, permissions or documentation that might need to be addressed prior to beginning construction work on your garage extension.

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  • 01Our garage conversion services 

    Our aim at houseUP is to provide a useable, liveable space that is complimentary to your property and your style, and we will work closely with you to understand and realise your vision. We want to ensure the finished result is an aesthetically natural extension of your home and meets the expectations you have.

    Most garage spaces are fairly similar in template. They are referred to as 'attached', sharing at least one wall with the property; 'integrated' which is similar to attached in that it is connected to the main structure, but may also have a room or rooms overhead; 'detached' meaning a completely separate structure to the main building.

    It is notable that attached and integrated garage conversions are more straightforward in that they rarely require planning permission. Detached garage conversions can require additional permissions.

    Whatever your departure point, some of the services we offer are:

    • Single garage conversion: The most common choice due to simplicity and cost-efficiency, we consider most appropriate for hobby rooms or downstairs washroom facilities.

    • Double garage conversion: Straightforward and offering more space than a single conversion, ideal for family spaces such as a children's playroom or a dining room.

    • Partial garage conversion: Maintaining some of the original space for car parking or storage. A home gym or office are typical conversions.

    • Detached single or double garage conversion: Minimal disruption to home life, but there are often additional planning requirements. These types of conversions can be transformed into self-contained living spaces.

    One of the most exciting elements of any project is the aesthetic design and at houseUP this is another area in which we excel. You might want to take advantage of our creative talent and technical skill by considering some of the following features for your new structure:

    • single, double or multi-storey design
    • a pitched roof or gable
    • the incorporation of structural glass features
    • sky lights or bi-folding doors
    • exposed brickwork or parquet flooring
    • luxurious Italian finishes
Ready to start?

Get a free site visit and quote for your garage conversions in london.

Do you need planning permission for a garage conversion? 

The vast majority of garage conversions do not require planning permission as the work is deemed Permitted Development. In rare cases, such as the property is a listed building or in a conservation area, permission will most likely be necessary. This can be checked and applied for through the local authority. A detached garage may also require permission for change of use.

Do you need planning permission for a garage conversion?

How much does it cost to convert a garage? 

We approach each project as unique as every client has individual needs, expectations and vision for their extension. Therefore, the total cost of a conversion is determined based on a number of factors:

  • the specifications of the current structure; e.g. single or double garage
  • the condition of the existing structure
  • the foundations of the existing structure
  • complexity of changes to the structure i.e. single storey to double storey
  • the intended purpose of the finished conversion
  • removal/ insertion of walls, doors and windows
  • utilities
  • insulation
  • flooring
  • soundproofing
  • quality of materials
  • specialist features, i.e. structural glass
  • specialist fees, contractor fees and building regulation applications

**A considered budget for a garage extension in London would be approximately £1500/m2 to £2000/m2, or approximately £20,000 for a single garage conversion or £30,000 for a double garage conversion. **Italic

While the initial investment may seem daunting, it is widely agreed that converting a garage can add an average value of 10% to your property.

The intended purpose of the new space is one of the main aspects that will influence the budget. For example, converting a garage into a bedroom or bathroom will be nearer the top end of a budget compared to a games room, office or home gym conversion.

How much does it cost to convert a garage?
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The next step to converting your garage

The next step to converting your garage 

We would be delighted to hear your suggestions for transforming your garage space into a slice of luxury, or offer guidance and creative suggestions from the initial stages of conception. As garage conversion specialists, we can offer experience and expert guidance from design to permissions and regulations, from construction to finishes, while committing to using the highest quality materials within your budget.

So whether you are faced with the unpalatable decision to move or renovate, or whether you are looking to maximise under-utilised space refresh that section of your home, contact us without obligation to discuss your bespoke garage conversion project.

Garage Conversions in London — FAQs

Questions and answers

Common questions about our garage conversions in london service

  • Is it a good idea to convert a garage? 

    We have no hesitation in answering 'yes'. Aside from the added value to your property, it offers freedom in terms of physical space and breathing space. With so many potential options for this additional room, the possibilities are without limit; the functional extra bedroom or downstairs cloakroom to something more individual and unique such as a potting and plant shed, or a room specifically designed for furry family members; a dog room.

    Due to a lower impact on home life, converting your garage rather than your loft is immediately a more digestible option. Depending on size and complexity, garage conversions are significantly less expensive than loft conversions. Average estimates suggest a single garage conversion will cost approximately £10,000 less than a fairly straightforward, low end budget loft conversion.

  • Does a garage conversion need a foundation? 

    This will depend on two factors; first, the area of existing foundation; and second, whether your design is a single or two-storey conversion.

    If you are planning to replace the garage door opening with a wall then you will need to ensure there is adequate base support for that, i.e. that the area of the original foundations extend beyond the opening. In the second instance, you will need to ensure there will be sufficient support for the additional pressure exerted by a second storey. One of our specialists will be able to advise on this.

  • Can you convert a garage without building regulations? 

    In order to create a safe, comfortable and habitable space, certain building regulations will be adhered to.

    Key aspects for regulation are: fire safety, acoustics, thermal performance and ventilation.

  • Do you need a structural engineer for a garage conversion? 

    A structural engineer is required when structural alterations are made. In the case of a garage conversion one might be needed to assess any structural weaknesses to the foundations of your garage, or when planning additional storeys. Depending on your design and our advice, we may call upon one of our expert partners to inspect and provide solutions.

  • What is a partial garage conversion? 

    A partial garage conversion is an excellent compromise. In most cases, the front part of the garage remains unaltered and is used as a parking space while the area behind is converted for the new purpose.

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Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas

We specialise in Grade I and Grade II listed buildings and conservation area projects across London — from Highgate to Chelsea. Our conservation architects understand the constraints and navigate them for you.

02

Transparent, Detailed Pricing

Every quote is itemised with material costs, labour, and timelines clearly set out. We list prices on our service pages because we believe you deserve to know what you're paying for.

03

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From first survey to final snagging, the same project manager oversees your build. No handoffs between contractors, no gaps in responsibility — just one point of contact throughout.

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Reviews

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It was a pleasure working with Vincenzo, Gen and their team. They have such an eye for detail and we worked well as a team to produce a project the client was very happy with. They are professional. We would highly recommend.

Juliette ByrneArchitectural & Interior design

Working with HouseUP on two challenging Conservation Area / Grade I listed apartment renovations in London recently has been a true pleasure. Their availability, enthusiasm, very collaborative approach, skilled staff, and dedicated and diligent site management made a huge difference to bring these projects to successful completion. Addressing issues as they arise on historic apartment buildings, and calmly making sure they are successfully resolved, made a huge difference. We have no hesitation recommending HouseUP, warmly and highly.

LISA M.HIGHPOINT I

houseUP did a 4 month complete renovation of our flat in South Kensington. We were very pleased with their work. Vincenzo put together a great team led by a very capable site manager. They used high quality subcontractors for plumbing and electricity. They communicated well and in a timely manner with our project manager regarding issues and problems. They also worked well with the 3rd party MEP engineer and they handled minor issues with neighbours professionally. Works were completed on time (critical due to Covid restrictions) and on budget. All three tenders were similar in price, but houseUP’s was the most comprehensive/detailed which made it easy to evaluate.

HARALD E.SOUTH KENSINGTON

I used houseUP to renovate a flat in Shoreditch whilst I was overseas. I would certainly recommend them as, whilst expensive, they provide an excellent service and undertook to make the process as pain free as possible for me. They also worked well with my designer.

KATE V.SHOREDITCH

I would absolutely recommend Vincenzo and the houseUP team. They completed an 8 month full refurbishment/extension of our house at the end of 2019. They managed every detail of the project and did so with such a high level of care - often it felt like they were carrying out works to their own house! They were always available to discuss when needed and kept us in the loop as required (but didn't over burden us with issues they could easily resolve themselves). We are delighted with our new family home and I feel like the process was made so much less stressful by using houseUP.

SARAH GWILLESDEN

Vincenzo and the team were enthusiastic, creative and engaged. They brought the project in on budget and I'm happy to recommend them. Their approach of having in-house structural engineering really helped make savings by integrating the disciplines involved with design and construction.

ANDREW W.CHISWICK

A team, that is an absolute pleasure to deal with. Professional, helpful and responsive, with a direct approach to projects. Look forward to continue working together in the future.

VITA ARCHITECTUREChelsea

We highly recommend houseUP. As architects, it is always difficult to find good contractors and houseUP and the team are very professional and have great communication skills. Looking forward to working with them in the future.

WHITE RED ARCHITECTSChelsea

I hired houseUP after meeting with Vinz and the team - I found them down to earth, easy to deal with and very flexible and fair with me, unlike many other companies we asked to quote our project. They completed a double storey side extension and rear extension for me, plus complete renovation of my house. We have recently moved back into our house after completion of the project, and could not be more happy. Even if there are any issues at this stage, they are always on hand to help and put things right. It was daunting having to think about a company to do such major works for us, however Vinz was great all throughout the project and helped us achieve what we wanted. He was always available to speak to, and is knowledgeable and friendly. The transparency is something I do not think we could have got with most other companies, and for this I am grateful. Thank you guys!

JUNAID C.GANTS HILL

The houseUP team came to the rescue to renovate our penthouse in Shoreditch, London, after our first builders did a runner. They are great guys and trustworthy, they're real construction professionals and manage their subcontractors well to ensure a good quality of finish.

JAMIE AND LULUSHOREDITCH

Vincenzo, Mike and their teams of subcontractors are a breath of fresh air to the construction market. They are extremely well organised and professional, providing a high end service, with clear and constant communication to clients throughout their projects, no matter how big or small. Alison's rear extension was the first thing we completed with the houseUP team and we never stopped working together since our first construction project. We enjoy working with houseUP as the projects are realised with ease, on time and on budget. We highly recommend these guys to all of our clients for construction projects of all sizes in London and beyond!

MODEL PROJECTS (DESIGNERS)Chelsea
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