So many people treat their garage as a dumping ground (we're definitely guilty of this in our household!). It’s understandable because it’s a cold and dreary space with old things stored in it a lot of the time. The truth is that this part of the house holds so much potential, though. If you’ve ever walked into a garage area that has been thoughtfully arranged, you will know all about this potential. You don’t need to create a perfect zone, but it would be good to possess a useful space that makes life easier.  The way you store things says a lot about you. A tidy garage looks good, but it gives off a sense of clarity and control. If you are somebody who really wants to look after your car, then the garage becomes more than just a space to utilize. It becomes a shelter and a reflection of your own habits. If you can build a space with plenty of intention, your vehicle will benefit. You will have more room to move and will have a setup that is perfect for your life. Here are a few ways you can turn your garage into a place with real purpose: 

It’s easy to group all tools together and stuff certain things in a random corner. Instead of doing this in a lazy fashion, create zones. With this kind of organisation, your garage will flow properly and feel less like a big storage container. You will save so much time each day and each week because you will not be rummaging through old, dusty boxes. 

The floor is obviously a place for parking, but it’s also part of the wider layout. You could think vertically as well as horizontally. Consider installing wall-mounted racks as well as ceiling storage and foldable work benches. These options will free up floor space. If you own a Ford Ranger or any other large vehicle, you will create space to pull in without dodging awkward items. Make sure every square foot serves a purpose. 

When you think about the garage, you picture a dark, dim, cold space. It probably has one weak lightbulb lighting up the place. By upgrading to task lighting or installing LEDs at entrances, you will immediately upgrade the space. You will feel more comfortable when you enter, and you will immediately get a better sense of visibility. With layered and intentional lighting, you will change how everyone feels about the garage area. 

Open shelving is obviously efficient in parts, but it can sometimes be visual noise. If you can use cabinets correctly, you will calm the space down. Just make sure you don’t use them to hide junk and other pointless items. Use them to conceal tools and items that serve a purpose. You could even label them if it makes you feel more organized. The idea is that you will open the door and immediately find what you are looking for.