Garage Conversion Specialists
Garage Conversion Specialists in Surrey & South London
Your garage is often one of the most underused spaces in the home, but with the right vision it can become so much more than storage. A well-planned garage conversion allows you to unlock the full potential of your property, creating extra living space that is both functional and stylish. From adding value to your home to improving everyday comfort, a conversion is a cost-effective way to enhance your lifestyle without the need for a major extension.
At Happy Building, we specialise in designing and building bespoke garage conversions across Surrey and South London. Our team transforms cold, unused garages into warm and practical rooms tailored to your needs. Whether you want a dedicated home office, a private guest suite, or a welcoming family room, we provide the expertise to deliver it. Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward making your garage a true part of your home.
About Our Garage Conversion Service
A garage conversion is one of the smartest ways to create extra living space without extending your home. By adapting an attached or detached garage, you can gain a functional new room while increasing property value.
At Happy Building, we offer three flexible service options:
Just Design
Architectural drawings, planning applications, and building regulations.
Concept development and spatial planning
3D visualizations and rendering
Interior layout and material specification
Coordination with structural and M&E consultants
Just Build
Professional construction based on approved plans.
Project management and site supervision
Quality assurance and compliance checks
Coordination with subcontractors and suppliers
Health, safety, and environmental management
Design and Build
One team managing the entire process from design through to completion.
Seamless collaboration between designers and builders
Cost and time efficiency through integrated project delivery
Single point of contact for clear communication
With a 99% planning approval rate, clear budgets, and a local Surrey office, we provide a service trusted by homeowners across South London and Surrey.
Garage Conversion Design Services
Good design is the foundation of every successful garage conversion. Our experienced architects and designers ensure your project is not only visually appealing but also structurally sound and compliant with regulations.
Detailed site surveys and feasibility checks
Every successful conversion starts with a thorough site survey. We assess the existing structure, including load-bearing walls, ceiling heights, and access points, to confirm whether your garage is suitable for conversion and identify any potential challenges early.Concept designs and tailored space planning
Our architects create bespoke concepts based on how you want to use the space. Whether you’re planning a home office, bedroom, or gym, we prepare layouts that maximise comfort, functionality, and flow.Support with planning permission applications
Many garage conversions fall under permitted development, but when planning permission is needed, our team manages the entire process. We prepare all documents, liaise with local authorities, and increase your chances of fast approval.Building regulation drawings and submissions
Every conversion must meet building regulations to ensure safety and compliance. We produce the technical drawings required and handle submissions directly with building control, saving you time and stress.Structural calculations for walls, lintels, and floors
If structural changes are required, such as new openings or reinforced flooring, our structural engineers provide detailed calculations. This ensures your conversion is safe, stable, and fully certified.Insulation and thermal upgrade planning
To make your new room warm in winter and cool in summer, we design insulation solutions for floors, walls, and ceilings. This also improves energy efficiency and reduces long-term running costs.Advice on natural light, ventilation, and fire safety
We help you create a bright and comfortable living space by planning windows, skylights, and ventilation systems. All designs meet fire safety standards, including escape routes and smoke detection requirements.Integration of plumbing and electrics where needed
If your garage conversion includes a bathroom, kitchenette, or utility space, we design safe and efficient layouts for plumbing, drainage, and electrical systems, ensuring they integrate seamlessly with your home.Garage Conversion Build Services
Once your plans are ready, our construction team delivers high-quality workmanship and smooth projects and management from start to finish. Every build is carefully managed to avoid delays and hidden costs.
Full project scheduling and management
From the first day on site, our experienced project managers oversee every stage of your garage conversion. We create a clear schedule of works, coordinate trades, and keep you updated with progress reports, ensuring the build runs smoothly and on time.Structural alterations and reinforcement
If your conversion requires changes to walls, ceilings, or foundations, our team carries out all necessary structural work. We install RSJs, reinforce existing structures, and make sure the garage is fully prepared to support its new purpose.New windows, doors, and roof improvements
To bring in light and improve access, we fit high-quality windows and doors that match the character of your home. Where required, we also upgrade roofing elements to improve insulation and long-term durability.External insulation and damp-proofing
Garages are often poorly insulated. We apply external insulation and damp-proofing systems to transform the space into a dry, comfortable environment, protecting your investment for years to come.Floor levelling, insulation, and membranes
Uneven floors and cold concrete bases are common in garages. We level the surface, install damp-proof membranes, and add insulation, creating a solid foundation for your new living space.Plumbing, wiring, and heating installation
Our qualified trades handle all essential services, from electrical wiring and lighting to plumbing and drainage. We also fit efficient heating systems, including underfloor heating or radiators, to make the space fully functional.Internal walls, plastering, and finishes
We construct and finish all internal elements, including new partitions, ceilings, and plastering. The result is a high-quality finish that blends seamlessly with the rest of your home.Fitted storage, joinery, and kitchenettes
If your project includes bespoke features such as built-in wardrobes, storage units, or compact kitchenettes, our skilled joiners design and install these to maximise space and usability.Final building control certification
Every project is signed off by building control to confirm safety and compliance. We liaise with inspectors and secure the final certification, giving you complete peace of mind.Six-year structural warranty
All garage conversions we build are covered by a six-year structural warranty. This long-term protection ensures your investment is secure and demonstrates our commitment to quality and durability.Popular Garage Conversion Uses
Every home has different needs, and a garage conversion can be adapted in many ways:
One of the most common reasons homeowners choose a garage conversion is to create a dedicated home office or studio. With more people working remotely, having a quiet, purpose-built space designed for productivity can transform your daily routine and improve work-life balance.
Another popular choice is to convert the garage into an additional bedroom or guest suite. This can be especially valuable for growing families or for welcoming visitors, and with the option of adding an en-suite, it provides privacy and comfort for long-term stays.
Families often use garage conversions to create a playroom or family room. This provides children with their own safe, creative space while freeing up other areas of the house, making day-to-day living more organised and enjoyable.
Many clients also transform their garages into personal home gyms. With tailored equipment, proper ventilation, and durable finishes, you can enjoy the convenience of exercising at home without sacrificing space elsewhere in your property.
Finally, a garage conversion is ideal for practical purposes such as a utility or laundry room. This allows you to move noisy appliances out of the main living areas, while creating organised storage and functional space for household tasks.
Benefits of Converting Your Garage
Garage conversions offer a range of benefits for homeowners:
One of the greatest benefits of a garage conversion is the ability to gain additional living space without the stress or expense of moving house. Instead of going through the upheaval of relocating, you can adapt the space you already own and make your home work better for your lifestyle.
Compared to a full extension, a garage conversion is a far more cost-effective way to increase space. Since the external structure already exists, you avoid the major expense of new foundations and walls, making it one of the most affordable home improvements available.
Converting your garage also allows you to make use of an underutilised part of your property. Many garages sit unused or simply act as storage areas, but with the right design they can be transformed into warm, functional rooms that add genuine value to everyday life.
In many cases, garage conversions can be carried out without the need for full planning permission. This makes the process faster and simpler, allowing you to start enjoying your new space sooner. Our team can confirm requirements during your consultation and manage any applications if they are needed.
Our Garage Conversion Process
We believe in keeping things clear and straightforward so you know exactly what to expect:
Consultation and Feasibility:
During our Initial Project consultation we will discuss your aims and assess the potential of your property.
Design and Planning:
Our team creates detailed drawings and manages submissions.
Budget and Scheduling:
Transparent pricing and timelines are agreed.
Construction:
We carry out the build with full project management.
Final Approval and Handover:
We secure certification and provide warranties.
Why Choose Happy Building
Happy Building is not just another contractor. We are a local design and build company with a reputation for delivering exceptional results.
At Happy Building, we are proud to be a truly local team with a dedicated studio in Cheam Village, where clients can meet us face-to-face. Our reputation is backed by over 200 five-star reviews from satisfied homeowners, reflecting the quality and reliability of our work. With a proven 99% planning success rate, we give clients the confidence that their projects will move forward quickly and efficiently. We provide a complete service from concept to completion, ensuring every stage is managed by one expert team. All budgets are fixed and transparent, so there are no hidden surprises along the way. To give you complete peace of mind, we are fully licensed, insured, and accredited by leading industry bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion?
In many cases, planning permission is not required as most garage conversions fall under permitted development. If approval is necessary, our experienced team will prepare and manage the entire application, ensuring a smooth process.
How much does a garage conversion cost?
The cost depends on the size of the garage, structural changes, and your chosen finishes. At Happy Building, we provide a clear, fixed-price quotation after your free consultation, so you know exactly what to expect.
How long does a garage conversion take?
Most projects are completed within six to ten weeks. The exact timeline will depend on the complexity of the work, but with our detailed project management you can be confident your conversion will finish on schedule.
Can you convert detached garages?
Yes. Detached garages are ideal for creating self-contained annexes, studios, or rental units. We assess structural requirements, secure planning where needed, and deliver a high-quality finish tailored to your goals.
Will my garage conversion need building control approval?
Yes, building regulations approval is always required to ensure safety, insulation, and structural integrity. We prepare the technical drawings, liaise with building control officers, and obtain the final certification for you.
Start Your Garage Conversion Today
Ready to unlock the potential of your garage? Book a free consultation and let our expert team guide you through the process.
Phone: 0207 118 0035
Email: office@happybuilding.co.uk
