I’ve been wrestling with this exact question for a while. We’ve got an attic that technically could be a bedroom, but the sloped ceilings are a pain—like, I can’t even stand up straight in half the space. I keep wondering if it’s worth the cost to try and fix that, or if I’d just end up with a weird, cramped room. Has anyone actually managed to make an attic feel spacious? Or is it just better to focus on the garage, even if it means dealing with the concrete floor and figuring out heating?
Or is it just better to focus on the garage, even if it means dealing with the concrete floor and figuring out heating?
Attic conversions are tricky, especially with those sloped ceilings. I’ve been there—my house is 120 years old and the attic’s got barely any headroom in half the space. Here’s what I learned: if you can’t stand up straight in most of it, you’ll always feel cramped, no matter how nice you finish it. I tried making mine into a guest room and honestly, it just ended up as storage. The garage was easier to insulate and put down a floating floor, even if it meant dealing with the cold concrete at first. If you’re after usable space, I’d lean garage unless you’re ready for some serious (and pricey) roof work.
GARAGE BEDROOM VS ATTIC: DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE ATTIC’S POTENTIAL
I get the appeal of the garage—flat floors, easier access, more obvious insulation options. But I think attics get a bad rap, especially when it comes to creativity and coziness. Sure, low headroom is a challenge, but have you ever considered how those sloped ceilings could actually work in your favor? I’ve seen some really charming attic bedrooms where the angles made the space feel like a tucked-away retreat, almost like a treehouse for grownups. It’s all about how you use the space you *do* have.
What about built-ins under the eaves or a custom platform bed that fits right into the slope? Sometimes, a little architectural quirk becomes the best part of the room. And natural light—attics usually have potential for skylights or dormers. That’s not something you get in most garages, unless you’re ready to punch in new windows and mess with permits.
Heating’s tricky in both spaces, honestly. Garages tend to be colder, and unless you’re raising the floor and insulating like crazy, you might still end up with chilly toes in winter. Attics can get hot, but with good insulation and maybe a ductless mini-split, it’s manageable. I’ve worked on a few attic conversions where just adding a couple of well-placed vents and some spray foam made a world of difference.
I guess my question is: what kind of vibe are you going for? If you want something bright and airy, and you’re up for a bit of creative problem-solving, I’d say don’t count out the attic just because it’s awkward. Sometimes the most interesting spaces come from working with what seems like a flaw at first glance. And if you’re worried about resale, a finished attic with character can be a real selling point—way more memorable than a basic garage bedroom.
Just my two cents… sometimes the “harder” project ends up being the most rewarding.
Totally hear you on the attic’s hidden charm. I’ve done both—converted a garage and an attic—and honestly, the attic ended up being everyone’s favorite spot in the house. Here’s why your take makes sense:
- Those weird angles? They’re a pain to drywall, but once you get past that, they make the space feel super cozy. My niece calls it her “hobbit hideout.”
- Skylights are a game changer. Natural light pouring in beats the heck out of the fluorescent garage vibe.
- Storage under the eaves is a lifesaver. Built-in drawers = less clutter, more floor space.
- Heating/cooling: yeah, both are tricky. But at least in the attic, heat rises, so you’re halfway there in winter. Garage bedrooms always felt drafty to me, no matter how much insulation I stuffed in.
Honestly, the quirks end up being what people remember. Anyone can slap up some drywall in a garage, but making an attic work feels like a real win. Plus, you get bragging rights for pulling off the “awkward” space.
Attic conversions really do have a certain magic, don’t they? I’m with you on the “hobbit hideout” vibe—there’s something about those sloped ceilings and odd corners that just feels inviting. But I always wonder: did you run into any issues with insulation or air sealing up there? In my experience, older attics can be a nightmare for energy efficiency unless you’re meticulous about sealing every gap. The heat rising helps in winter, sure, but I’ve seen summer temps spike unless there’s solid ventilation or a mini-split system.
“Skylights are a game changer. Natural light pouring in beats the heck out of the fluorescent garage vibe.”
Couldn’t agree more about skylights. They’re fantastic for daylighting, but I’ve had to caution folks about UV exposure and heat gain—did you end up using any low-e coatings or shades? I’ve seen some people regret skipping that step when July rolls around.
On the garage side, you’re right about the draftiness. Even with spray foam, it’s tough to get a garage as comfortable as a main-floor bedroom. Plus, garages often have that cold slab floor. Did you try any radiant floor heating, or just stick with baseboards? I’ve always been curious if the extra cost is worth it for a secondary bedroom.
One thing I’d add: attics often have better potential for passive solar gains if you orient the windows/skylights right. Garages, not so much—they’re usually at ground level and shaded by fences or shrubs. But then again, garages are easier to access for plumbing if you want an ensuite bath. Attics can be a pain for running new lines unless you’re already doing major work.
I guess it comes down to what you value more: quirky charm and light, or straightforward utility. Either way, both projects are a ton of work... but when you pull it off, it’s hard not to feel a little proud.
