Business

Garage Improvement Month: How To Have Your Dream Garage By Summer

The Chicago Journal Contributor

May 10, 2025

Highlighting the Impact of Garage Improvement Month and Budget-Friendly Upgrades

The garage is often one of the largest yet least utilized spaces in a home. For many households, it becomes a storage zone for seldom-used items, tools, and seasonal equipment. According to Aaron Cash, President and Co-Founder of Garage Living, “Our research shows that clutter is a major barrier for many homeowners; in fact, it’s estimated that nearly a third of people can’t park in their garages because they’re filled with disorganized belongings. However, with the right approach, it’s entirely possible to reclaim this space on a budget.”

Garage Living, a company founded in 2005, specializes in garage transformations and operates showrooms across North America, including in Chicago. The company’s services include garage cabinetry, custom flooring, slatwall systems, and personalized storage solutions designed to meet a variety of homeowner needs. Through customized design and professional installation, Garage Living works to improve the functionality and appearance of this often-overlooked area of the home.

Garage Improvement Month Promotes Organization and Awareness

Each year in May, Garage Living leads Garage Improvement Month, a national initiative designed to raise awareness about the importance of garage organization and safety. The campaign encourages homeowners to assess their existing garage layout, identify pain points, and consider improvements that support day-to-day functionality.

Rather than promoting large-scale renovations, Garage Improvement Month focuses on practical and budget-conscious strategies that are accessible to a wide range of homeowners. From minor shelving upgrades to full layout redesigns, the initiative provides an entry point for those looking to better utilize their space without overextending financially.

This annual observance is especially relevant during the spring cleaning season, when many homeowners are already looking to reorganize and refresh their living environments. By turning attention to the garage, Garage Living helps homeowners rethink how this space can better serve their lifestyle.

Supporting Functional Spaces Through Design

Garage Living’s approach to garage renovation focuses on more than aesthetics. Functionality is at the core of each project. The company offers tailored garage cabinetry systems that are designed to streamline storage while preserving floor space. These systems are commonly paired with slatwall solutions that support modular hanging options for tools, bikes, and gear.

Durable flooring options—such as polyaspartic coatings—are another key offering from Garage Living. These materials help protect against daily wear while contributing to an organized and clean appearance. Such flooring options are especially beneficial in cities like Chicago, where seasonal weather conditions can bring snow, salt, and moisture into the garage.

By combining these features, homeowners can move from a cluttered and underused area to a practical, easy-to-maintain space that adds to the home’s overall usability.

The Benefits of Garage Renovation

While garages are commonly associated with vehicle storage, they are increasingly being used as hybrid spaces. Many homeowners now use them for hobbies, fitness, and small home workshops. As a result, garage renovation is not solely about increasing storage but about making the space more adaptable.

According to insights from Aaron Cash, a well-organized garage has the potential to support both everyday living and long-term home value. Although financial outcomes may vary by market and location, a cleaner and more efficient layout can improve how homeowners engage with their property.

Additionally, by reducing clutter and creating designated storage zones, homeowners can improve safety within the garage. Tripping hazards, misplaced tools, and blocked entryways are common issues that can be addressed through simple organizational improvements.

Local Support for Garage Projects in Chicago

Garage Living’s Chicago showroom offers local homeowners a chance to explore materials, designs, and configurations in person. This direct engagement allows for more personalized consultations and tailored recommendations based on climate, property type, and lifestyle needs.

With a wide range of product options and a design-first approach, the company supports garage renovation projects of varying scopes. Whether the goal is to install a single cabinet system or to completely reorganize the garage, Garage Living works closely with clients to ensure the outcome aligns with their daily routines and preferences.

Encouraging Homeowners to Reclaim Garage Space

Home improvement projects often start with the most visible areas of a home—kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms. However, garage renovation is gaining attention as more homeowners recognize the value of reclaiming usable square footage.

Garage Living continues to advocate for thoughtful garage design through its services and through public awareness efforts like Garage Improvement Month. With insight from industry professionals such as Aaron Cash and a growing community of homeowners interested in optimizing their spaces, garage renovation is becoming a practical and approachable home improvement option.