Research by Compton Garages reveals that only 50% of UK domestic garages are used to store the family car.

Instead, garages are increasingly being used as an extension to the home or utility room, or simply as a secure covered space for storage and hobbies.

More than half of the people surveyed use their garage to store garden tools and furniture, with almost 30% reserving the space for their workbench and DIY activities. Tumble driers, fridges and freezers are also located in the garage, which is obviously no longer reserved exclusively for the car!

The changes in use are reflected in the improvements some consumers request when they purchase a new Compton Garage. 28% required a painted floor, so making the space easier to clean and losing the utilitarian look of concrete, while 16% opted for painted walls too.

While over 75% request lights and electricity points, a combined 8% select lined walls and roofs for added energy efficiency and cosiness