Top 40 features of a perfect garage - a large tool chest tops the list
A high-level security system, space-efficient storage options, and even a mini-kitchen, complete with a fridge/freezer, are some of the top things that car lovers would want – in their ideal garage, a survey has found.
The top requirement for a perfect garage would be a large tool chest for storage, stocked with a complete selection of hand tools for car repairs and fine-tuning.
And other high-tech features for the ultimate vehicle storage space would include a car charging port, super-fast internet – and even a Batman-style turntable.
The garage should also be big enough to house two classic cars, as well as custom tool cabinets, a hydraulic car lift, and even a full body workshop.
It comes as a survey of 2,000 car enthusiasts found that 58% currently have a garage – although 42% of those feel it is not up to scratch to help fulfil their passion for motors.
Pet owners driving with dogs face £5,000 fine if they break these rulesAs a result, 64% would consider moving house if it came with the “perfect garage” – paying 4.9% over a property’s asking price for such an amenity.
And in light of the findings, eBay, which commissioned the research, has teamed up with design firm, Bindloss Dawes, to create a rendered image of the perfect garage space, based on the imaginings of those polled.
Laura Richards, for eBay UK, a seller of automotives, and automotive tools and accessories, said: “Garages were originally designed to house cars – but with vehicles getting bigger and bigger, they no longer provide enough space.
“This got us wondering what the perfect garage would look like now – specifically according to car enthusiasts, who spend their weekends undertaking car repairs and modifications. Respondents were not short of ideas, knowing exactly what they want from their ultimate motoring sanctuary.”
The study also found the Aston Martin DB5 (22%) is the car those polled would most like to have in their perfect garage. However, the Jaguar E-Type (18%), Porsche 911 (17%), Ford Mustang (17%), and the Audi R8 (17%), wouldn’t be out of place.
And the ideal garage would also have a tyre changer, air compressor, ventilation for spray painting, and built-in drainage, so owners can wash their car indoors. Pleasingly for neighbours, 79% would want their garage to be soundproof, while 71% would ensure it was eco-friendly.
It wouldn’t just include car-related items or features, however – as a jukebox, a pool table, and even a bar with draught beer on tap, were also deemed as must-haves.
The study, carried out through OnePoll, also found that, of those who already have a garage, 22% spend three or more hours a week in the space.
Laura Richards, spokeswoman for eBay UK, which has more than 60,000 car tool listings, added: “The study helps show just how important garages are to motoring enthusiasts. However, the findings also suggest many UK garages aren’t fit for purpose – at least as far as car fans are concerned.”
TOP 40 FEATURES OF THE PERFECT GARAGE:
'Dangerous' driver sparks fury after placing 'insane' note on back window- A large tool chest for storage
- Space-efficient storage options
- A high-level security system
- A fridge/freezer
- A complete selection of hand tools essential for car repairs/fine-tuning
- Built-in drainage, so cars can be washed indoors
- A car charging port
- Super-fast internet
- A tyre changer
- An air compressor
- Custom tool cabinets
- Every socket wrench available
- Eco-friendly heating and air conditioning, to ensure cars are stored at the perfect temperature
- Task lighting
- A hydraulic car lift
- A mini kitchen
- A top-of-the-range car diagnostics tool
- A jukebox
- A pool/snooker table
- A vehicle inspection pit
- A bar, with draught beer on tap
- Voice-activated lighting
- A full body workshop
- Decorative lighting
- Discrete bicycle storage
- A cinema screen and projector
- Arcade machines
- A petrol/diesel pump
- Ventilation for spray painting/use of solvent-based products
- A wheel balancer
- Welding equipment
- A record player
- Engine hoists
- Plants
- Framed artworks
- The latest game consoles
- A La-Z-Boy recliner
- A Batcave-style turntable
- Professional-standard car paint sprayer
- Ergonomically designed seating