A client referred us to new homeowners in Evanston who had a healthy goal in mind: to create an enclosed gym from a car port-turned-garage. This project did not neatly fit our typical engagements in size or type, but we were intrigued from the start. There is something about solving new problems that appeals to us. Retrofitting a space built for one purpose into a new space for a different purpose presents the kind of challenges we like. Also, we like to lend a hand to our Northwestern peeps when we can.
We’re glad the results exceeded our client’s expectations.
The former garage comfortably holds a treadmill, rowing machine, heavy bag, TRX system, and more, all on a 3/4” thick rubberized floor. No more excuses for skipping a workout when you have this attached to your home.
A view of the entry to the gym, with closed storage, new exterior door, new windows, and lockers. The clients can check their form in the 6’ x 4’ wall mirror, too. Heat is drawn from the main ductwork inside the home, and the walls are coated in a special scuff-resistant paint.
The former garage started as a car port before it was enclosed by the previous owners. Our first task was to remove the rolling garage door, create an insulated sub-floor, and frame the walls and ceiling. A minimally functional garage often has limited electrical installed and no insulation. They are drafty with exposed framing and uncomfortable during the Winter with no heat supply.
After running the new electrical, we insulated the sub-floor, walls, and ceiling with closed-cell spray foam to provide an air-tight insulation seal. We added lighting and electrical outlets to ensure the new space would function well as gym, and we also took steps to ensure that the gym could be returned to a garage in the future if new owners needed it.
Under the 3/4” plywood sub-floor is a vapor barrier, stud platform, and closed cell foam insulation. A minor amount of disassembly and demolition would be required to revert to a functional garage in the future.
We were delighted to help these new owners build the gym they envisioned and take advantage of an extra car spot they didn’t need. What used to be a basic garage is now a functional gym for owners who use it every day. We wish them and you a healthy and active 2019!
