Florence Garage
BACKGROUND & Design Solutions
The homeowners, a professional couple with demanding jobs, were looking to renovate their garage to accommodate extra storage and a workshop space for their hobbies.
The existing garage had long been neglected and had flooding problems caused by a previous failed remodel. Our clients’ priority was to repair the foundation, which was badly damaged by tree roots, vines, and water intrusion. They hoped to salvage part of the original structure. Additionally, pavers had previously been installed over the old concrete driveway, which meant the driveway was 4” higher than the garage. Every time it rained, water came in through the old carriage door and soaked below grade. The goal for the client was to have a space to store their bikes and work on them as needed. Bicycles are their primary source of transportation.
Solution
The solution was to lift the entire garage 8” above grade and install a new foundation so that it was level with the driveway.
Process
HDR Remodeling began with a feasibility study to develop a clear scope of work and understand the clients’ needs and aesthetics. They wanted the space to accommodate their individual hobbies—he enjoys electrical design and she is an avid cyclist and rower—and also had security concerns to address.
HDR Remodeling determined the primary goals of the new space were to create a secure, yet easily accessible, workshop for weekend projects and to maximize storage for bikes, tools, and gear. The garage is a prominent element of their backyard, so it needed to be both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The goal was to mimic the exterior style of the main house. They wanted the garage to exhibit the same quality and charm as the house and they were willing to invest in quality materials and craftsmanship. HDR Remodeling also wanted to ensure it fit in with the layout of their exterior plan which included a deck and yard they often use for entertaining.
After
The HDR Remodeling Design team selected a new Clopay “Avante” automatic, overhead garage door to replace the existing large sliding carriage door. The glass panels allow light to filter into the space. The window design, siding, and paint colors were selected to mirror the main house. The interior was finished with a plywood wall covering that is durable, low maintenance, and visually pleasing.
The results speak for themselves. The new garage space is charming and highly functional. The new structure provides usable space for hobby, sport and storage and reflects the same level of quality and craftsmanship as the rest of the property.
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