AKL Project Recap: Garage #2

We love a good garage project! The first thing we always consider with our garage remodels is the exterior home vibe. Why? Because we want the garage to flow with the overall home aesthetic and architecture. The revamped, reorganized, and remodeled space should look as though it’s been there forever and not thrown together on a whim. 

This particular project had three goals: 

1. Declutter and downsize inventory significantly

2. Create and design a floor plan to support the client’s needs and lifestyle

3. Design, concept, and install custom systems to add tons of functional storage and epoxy floors to increase the home value

There were also specific requirements and client requests that we needed to plan around, including: 

1. The fridge to stay in the same location

2. All outlets remain accessible

3. Bikes need to be hung up and accessible year-round

4. Seasonal items need to be easy to get to in the attic space 

5. Space for cars to be parked inside

When designing a garage that needs to have room for cars, it’s important to be strategic about shelving, cabinet locations, and depth, as there needs to be enough clearance to access everything. Our thoughtful design checked all the boxes. The amount of open space we were able to give them is wild! 

Timeline

We completed this garage in one week from start to finish, with seven AKL team members spending a combined 55 hours. They pulled everything out, reviewed, sorted, and donated items. They installed all the new systems (slat wall and custom shelving/cabinets), then organized, labeled, and moved everything into its new home. Imagine trying to plan, manage, and execute that all on your own! It’d be A LOT. If you asked any of our clients if their full garage overhaul was worth the investment, the answer is always YES. 

Total Cost: $20,463

Materials: $11,490

Labor: $8,973

“I would highly highly recommend Ashley and her team to anyone. Everything went to plan, communication was excellent, and the team were a joy to have around the house as they created an incredible space in our home. I can’t wait for our next project with them!”

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Products we used and why we love them: 

1. Everything Organizers: We use these for EVERYTHING.They come in multiple sizes for building a custom framework inside a drawer. They’re acrylic, easy to clean, and can be adjusted as inventory changes. 

2. Like-It Labels: We love a clean and chic label. This one comes in two size and color options. With double sided adhesive and a clear removable protector you can use these anywhere! 

3. Multi-Purpose Bins: These come in multiple colors, but we love a darker color in a garage for a clean vibe. Available in four sizes, they can fit nearly anything and are easy to pull in and out. Add a label and voila!

4. Curver Bins: These heavy duty stackable bins are great for those heavier or bulkier items. Plus, the woven texture conceals the mess inside. They’re great for maximizing vertical height on shelves in a garage. 

5. Label Maker: This is our tried-and true label maker. Buy black, white, and clear tape options, download the app, and you can create custom labels within seconds. 

6. The Container Store Garage+ Custom Solutions: This magnetic and powder coated steel is so durable. Customize a system or go with their build-out options. We love a mix of open ventilated shelving, concealed cabinets, drawers for smaller items, and a solid work surface for tinkering.

7. Fluted Like-It Bins: Our FAVORITE stackable garage bin, hands down. They are STURDY and HUGE. The handles clip into place, providing a comfortable handle grip on both sides for easy in and out transportation. 

8. The Container Store Garage+ Custom Shelving: All of these shelf heights are adjustable which we love for versatility and growth as your lifestyle and needs change over time! Customize a setup for your space or choose a pre-designed solution. 

9. Slatwall: Our secret weapon! These are a GAME CHANGER for any garage space. All of those items that are too large to fit in cabinets or in bins go here. We are talking sports zone, yard zone, kids zone, etc. 

10. Slatwall Accessories: Hooks and bins organize specific items.

Make sure to measure your space and hire an installer if you’re not handy! Some of these systems require a little expertise to get them right.