The garage attached to my house wasn't technically a "garage" at first because it had no door. Like so many other houses in this neighborhood, this house had only a carport, and a rather empty one at that. The first step in making this space functional was to have a garage door installed, which was done in May 2009. Next came additional storage improvements in the form of "Gladiator" adjustable shelving. By the door leading into the house, I added a small shelving unit to hang things like the brooms, a dust pan, and a step ladder. On the other side of that door, I added two wire-mesh shelves. On the other walls, I added more Gladiator shelving mainly for hanging stuff.

I have said many times in the past that Lowe's can be a really dangerous place. Last week, I picked up several more shelving tracks, a mesh basket, a few more hangers, and a small wire shelf. The mesh basket seen in the photo above now serves as a home for my shop vac accessories.

I also spotted the magic word - "Clearance."

Lowe's had several Gladiator parts and accessories marked "Clearance." I'm not sure if they are making room for new parts and accessories, or if Lowe's is actually going to discontinue the whole line. All I know is that this Gladiator Utility Cabinet that normally sells for $230 was on "Clearance" for $127.

"Some assembly required."

I bolted the parts together and anchored it directly to the wall.

The cabinet door is hinged at the bottom and folds downward so it can be used as a "work station," and feels quite solid. When not in use, the door folds upward and latches in the closed position.

By locating the cabinet next to the garage door, I was thinking I could use it for stuff like gardening supplies and car wash/wax accessories.

Below the cabinet, I added one shelving track and some small hangers. Gardening stuff will fit nicely here as well.

Next, I added two more shelving tracks and a bunch more hooks and hangers to the existing track on the other side of the utility room door.

I'm quite happy with the results.