The Glam Garage Getaway

We recently wrapped up an incredible transformation of a detached garage, and the results are nothing short of stunning! Originally a modest 18×20 structure with a hip roof, this approximately 370 sq ft space has been reimagined into a luxurious retreat designed for high-end guests.

Inside, the layout feels like a masterpiece of space planning, where every square inch has been meticulously utilized. The interior is cleverly divided into four distinct yet seamless sections: a cozy living room for relaxation, a sleek and functional kitchen, a serene bedroom, and a combined laundry and bath area.

The attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the thoughtful flow between spaces to the premium finishes chosen to elevate the experience. This is far more than your average guest suite—it’s a high-end mini house designed to delight and impress. Whether hosting family, friends, or travelers, this luxury escape promises comfort and sophistication.

Christina: Oh, absolutely! But it wasn’t just one thing—it was a collection of finishing touches that brought it all together. The beams in the ceiling are definitely a standout for me. They add so much warmth and character to the space.

I also fell in love with a vintage 1960s light fixture I found at a local antique store for just $75. It’s one of those pieces that has a story and personality, and it fit perfectly in the design.

Another favorite is the 100-year-old vintage door we repurposed in such a unique way. We turned it sideways and used it as a partial wall to separate the living area from the bedroom. It served three purposes: First, it’s a beautiful visual element that adds depth and charm. Second, it allows airflow from the mini split in the living room to move into the bedroom, which was a clever functional solution. And lastly, repurposing something with history ties this new space to the 1920s main house it belongs to. (Plus we were able to salvage something and give it new life!)

Christina: Oh, definitely! One unique aspect was how we approached the plumbing in the bathroom. To save on costs, we decided against jackhammering the existing concrete slab. Instead, we got creative and built a raised box to house the plumbing. It’s about a 7-inch step up—kind of like the height of a step riser—and it worked out beautifully.

To keep the space feeling open and functional, we paired it with a sleek pocket door. It was a practical solution that not only saved money but also added a bit of architectural interest to the bathroom layout. Sometimes those out-of-the-box fixes end up being the most satisfying!

Christina: Thank you! My vision was all about timeless sophistication and creating a space that feels rich and inviting. I was inspired by the classic tones you’d see in a Ralph Lauren palette—deep, moody colors that feel luxurious yet grounded. It was important to me to use materials that stand the test of time, avoiding anything trendy or flimsy. Everything had to be solid, well-made, and built to last.

I also wanted to break away from that typical “boxy” feel you sometimes get in small spaces. That’s why I leaned heavily on glass doors, large windows, and reflective materials to open up the space and let the light bounce around beautifully.

The hip roof was another big inspiration. It created this natural opportunity for higher center ceilings, which I knew we had to highlight. Instead of a drop ceiling, we embraced the roofline’s architecture and added faux beams—crafted on-site—to draw attention to those elegant four points leading to the center. It brought so much character and warmth to the space. I wanted every detail to feel intentional and special, and I’m thrilled with how it all came together! REMEMBER: Inspiration can come from anywhere. Even a restaurant bathroom!