Hidden among the trees and rolling hills within the mountains of Central California is a gem of a cabin with a spectacular first floor. It is, of course, a garage. No Garage Majal, the floors are simple concrete, the ceilings are open beam, the walls between them are in white above and simple plywood below, which creates a unique, open look that’s reflective and airier than most wood-walled garages we’ve seen. Plenty of windows allow in natural light and provide views of the surroundings, which furthers the sanctuary feel the garage provides. It’s a fabulous setting for enjoying some time with the cars and tidbits spanning a lifetime of collecting. It’s simple, clean, well kept, and organized enough for the owner, Richard, to know where everything is.
Within the walls is his collection comprised of a modern Porsche 911 Turbo, a Continental Mark II, and a Maserati Ghibli. Among these gems are a multitude of tools, an arsenal required for any keeper of classic cars, and Richard uses them all, from time to time. Upon the wall are a smattering of pictures and posters, most from days gone by, most with stories attached to them. Old Chilton and Motor manuals are set among others upon a wooden bookshelf, and a wooden workbench sits sturdily by the window for that great view while working on a part. Here and there are freestanding rack-shelves holding a myriad of odds and ends.
While Richard’s cars seem to be Concours ready, the garage is a working place, a space for him to unwind after work, get a few jobs done, enjoy some alone time, and reconnect with himself. He also admits to enjoying sharing it with likeminded people, hosting get togethers with friends and enjoying some refreshments and time chatting or maybe polishing up a car, getting it ready for a show or cars and coffee.
Richard’s garage is proof positive that it doesn’t need to be perfect to be perfect.
