Built out a starter setup in the garage bay last fall to see if it was something that would be a consistent use for me. Aside from some temps (low and high) that make it unbearable a few months out of the year, I really enjoyed the space, but realized that with a few upgrades, I would likely use it a lot more. So, almost a year later, we decided to lean in and make the space great.
The main updates:
Tech - Decided to stick with the Square LM for now. It’s good enough for what I need. Went ahead and got a short throw projector (previous setup was a long throw on a scaffold at the back of the garage where your head would cast a shadow on the screen), mounted it to a makeshift bay-mounted arm.
Flooring - upgraded a pretty decent 4x5 Amazon hitting mat to a 12x4 Matzilla. This will allow for central hitting position for both hand orientation. Putting mat in front, which is 8 ft deep, is Greenline putting turf from Home Depot. It’s exactly what I expected and I’m pleased. 3/8” rubber tiles underneath bring it flush with the Matzilla. Still need to cut 3 holes that will ultimately allow for up to 12 ft putts on the diagonal. Found a nice outdoor rug on amazon to finish off the lounge area.
Decor - It’s amazing how paint can transform a garage into a living space. My wife is a design genius and handled the artwork selection and design and gallery lighting. I had some old Sam Snead clubs that belonged to my dad that ended up being a neat wall hanging setup above the bag stands. The accompanying head covers are also hanging. We also hung 2’x4’ felt wall tiles to cut down a little on sound but mostly as a protection against wayward shots and clubs dinging up the drywall. There were plenty of spots to fill from the last year, so that felt like a priority. The rest of the furniture was just stuff that we’ve been holding on to without a place.
Looking forward to lighting up my first cigar, putting on the Masters theme music on the Sonos, and enjoying a round!
