With summer approaching, garage organization is top of mind, especially as homeowners look to sort and store winter items and to organize their recreational gear and tools for summer hobbies. A winning project in the 2025 Top Shelf Design Awards highlights how to create a space designed for functionality and visual appeal.

Elizabeth Sterenberg at The Tailored Closet/Premier Garage of DC said her project, “Garage Makeover Provides Storage and Organization Zones with Appealing Functionality,” shows how a garage under 600 square feet can be transformed into a sophisticated, multi-purpose area.

According to Sterenberg, the Maryland client wanted to change their existing garage into a well-organized, functional space with plenty of room for hidden storage while maintaining a streamlined look. Previously, the garage featured an existing built-in closet that lacked organization, making it difficult to efficiently access tools, outdoor equipment, and everyday items. The goal was to address these challenges by creating specific zones for different activities, including a dedicated workbench area and places to store shoes and hang coats.

To achieve this vision, custom cabinetry was used to maximize storage and to create a clean, modern look. The primary cabinetry system features JT Carter Silver Frost paneling with sleek slab doors and drawer fronts. For interior quality and durability, dove-tailed birch drawer boxes were used along with Richelieu undermount soft-close glides for smooth operation.

Organization was central to the project’s success, Sterenberg emphasized. So, in her design, the cabinetry includes concealed storage for tools and everyday equipment, enhancing accessibility and efficiency. To complement the hidden storage, she incorporated Storewall Grey Slatwall and a wide range of accessories. This system includes a rotating J-hook, hook bundles, basket bundles, an 18-inch Grab & Go tote bag, and various specialized hooks, including cradle, double loop, disc, and heavy-duty tool and universal hooks to keep items off the floor and within easy reach.

One key feature of the renovation is the functional workbench area. Designed to be spacious and equipped for various tasks, the workbench was outfitted for the client’s specific needs, Sterenberg said. To enhance this zone, the design integrated Hafele LED strip lighting with a touch dimmer directly into the top shelf, providing more lighting for detailed projects. The workspace also features Slate Modern handles in multiple sizes and a convenient waste bin pullout with two 36-quart bins to keep the space clean.

Sterenberg’s design also includes a drop zone with designated sections for hanging coats and storing shoes. This layout allows the garage to operate as a secondary entryway that can remain organized and clutter-free.

Flooring was another key aspect of this garage renovation. Sika epoxy and polyaspartic resin flooring was selected to provide a durable, low-maintenance surface that supports the garage’s functional needs while also complementing the cool, modern tones of the Silver Frost cabinetry.

Developed using DVI design software, the final result is a functional and visually appealing garage that supports both hobbies and household management, transforming a previously cluttered space.

For more information, visit premiergarage.com.

RESOURCES

Silver Frost paneling & slab doors     

JT Carter | jtcarter.com

Undermount soft-close glides

Richelieu | richelieu.com

Slate modern handles               

Hafele America | hafele.com

Grey slatwall & accessory kits              

Storewall | storewall.com

Epoxy & polyaspartic flooring                

Sika | sika.com