3rd Floor Attic Build-Out in Garner, NC
3rd Floor Attic Build-Out in Garner, NC
Adding 1,000+ Sq Ft of Functional Living Space
Turning Unused Attic Space Into a Fully Functional Living Area
Most homes have untapped potential sitting right above them.
For this project in the Garner area, the goal was to transform an unfinished attic into a fully functional third-floor living space—adding approximately 1,000 square feet of usable living and storage space.
This wasn’t just about finishing a room.
It was about creating a space that felt intentional, functional, and seamlessly integrated into the home.
Project Overview
Location: Garner, NC
Project Type: Attic Build-Out / Third Floor Addition
Added Space: ~1,000 sq ft
Scope Included:
Structural framing and layout
Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC integration
Insulation and air sealing
Drywall and finishing
Full bathroom installation
Custom built-ins and storage solutions
Skylight installation
The Vision & Client Goals
From the beginning, the homeowner had a clear vision for how this space should function.
One of the primary requests was to incorporate built-in features throughout the attic—maximizing both storage and usability without sacrificing open space.
Key goals included:
Functional living space
Dedicated work area
Efficient storage solutions
A full bathroom
Natural light integration
The Challenge
Attic remodels come with unique challenges that require careful planning and execution.
This space needed to be completely reimagined to support daily use, including:
Designing around sloped ceilings
Creating usable floor space while incorporating knee walls
Integrating electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems
Ensuring proper insulation and comfort
Maximizing storage without overcrowding the space
Every detail had to be intentional to ensure the final result felt like a natural extension of the home—not an afterthought.
The Build Process
From Structure to Finished Space
This project involved a full transformation from raw attic to finished living area.
The process included:
Framing the layout to define living areas and storage zones
Installing insulation and air sealing for long-term performance
Completing electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems
Drywall installation and finishing
Final trim, flooring, and built-in installation
Throughout the project, coordination between trades and attention to detail were critical to achieving a high-quality result.
Craftsmanship & Key Features
This project is a great example of how thoughtful design and execution come together.
Custom Built-Ins Throughout
Built-in storage was incorporated on both sides of the space, creating a symmetrical and functional layout that maximizes usability without cluttering the room.
Dedicated Work Area
An 8-foot built-in desk was installed along the back wall, providing a clean and functional workspace within the attic.
Skylights for Natural Light
Three VELUX skylights were added, featuring:
Solar-powered operation
Integrated blinds
These bring in natural light while maintaining comfort and control.
Bathroom Design
The attic includes a fully functional bathroom featuring:
3 ft x 6 ft custom tile shower and bath floor
4 ft recessed shower niche
Built-in shelving integrated into knee walls
To maximize space, shelving was built into the structure rather than taking up floor space.
Finished Storage Areas
Two dedicated storage areas were fully finished with:
Drywall
Lighting
LVP flooring
This ensures these spaces are clean, usable, and consistent with the rest of the home.
What Homeowners Don’t See
Behind every finished space is the work that makes it last.
This project required careful coordination of:
Structural framing
Insulation and air sealing
Electrical and lighting layout
Plumbing and HVAC integration
These are the details that directly impact:
Comfort
Efficiency
Long-term durability
It’s also where many projects fall short when corners are cut.
A Focus on Quality and Execution
This project was led by our team with a strong focus on execution from start to finish.
From coordinating materials to working closely with our trade partners, every phase required attention to detail to ensure the final product met our standards.
We also utilize JobTread to keep projects organized and clients informed throughout the process. This allows homeowners to see progress, access updates, and stay connected from start to finish.
At McLeod Home Services, one of our core values is excellence—and that means delivering a finished product that we stand behind.
The Result
What started as an unfinished attic is now a fully functional third-floor living space that adds both usability and value to the home.
The space feels intentional, comfortable, and fully integrated—providing the homeowner with additional living, working, and storage space without expanding the home’s footprint.
Building Clients for Life
Projects like this are about more than just construction.
They’re about building trust, delivering quality, and creating spaces that homeowners enjoy for years to come.
Thinking About Your Own Project?
If you’re considering finishing an attic or adding usable space to your home, we’d love to help.
👉 Reach out to McLeod Home Services
👉 Let’s plan your project the right way
