We recently moved into a small circa 1901 farmhouse and I am looking for more personal space. This unfortunate detached single-car garage was added in the 1990's. It is partially finished and heated already. I'm thinking of a she-shed, climate-controlled enough for books, paper crafting, supplies, etc. It would be nice to be able to use it during a planned house remodel, at least to house the cats. Ultimately, I might want to use it as an ADU - totally legal and normal here, so I don't need advice with that.

Would a better, insulated garage door be sufficient and/or a good idea? Do you have recommendations for a different type of door? My contractor wants to remove and enclose the garage door and add a couple of windows.

I would like to consider future accessibility and develop some kind of barn/carriage house look.

Any thoughts?

Thank you!