Creating the ultimate garage
From home enthusiasts to global supercar makers, Dura’s experts can create workshop perfection
Since 1997, Dura has been creating dream garages for individuals, and efficient workshops for leading manufacturers and main dealers. “For most, the garage is the biggest and simplest room of the house,” says Adam Clarke, one of Duraʼs residential designers. “Yet the majority of people see it as a dirty, dusty, dark dumping ground.”
Adam has completed thousands of home surveys and garage designs. Regardless of size, layout or location, there is one thing they all have in common: stuff. “Open most garage doors and youʼll find it layered up against the wall,” he explains. “The first thing every person can do – should do – is a yearly clear-out. It costs nothing, but those empty paint tins and broken tools are taking up space.”
Projects manager Claude Berger explains how layout is critical: “The key for any space, large or small, is to define its purpose. What do you want the space to do? We call these ʻanchorʼ points, and in most cases for home garages itʼs a mix of two or three things. The majority of people want storage. Then itʼs a space to work, such as on hobbies or DIY. There are some who want their own workshop, while others use the space to work on themselves with a home gym. Of course, many still want to house their cars and bikes, too.”
With a defined purpose, you can start to look at the garage layout, and this is where Duraʼs value can really be seen. “When we do a survey, we visualise the design with the client,” explains Claude. “For example, one customer was building a fitness space and wanted a bike rack on the back wall, but that would require travelling across the floor to the main door, bringing dirt across the entire area. Garage design is not just about finding storage solutions; itʼs about putting the right furniture in the right places.”
Having developed the modular garage concept, Dura effectively created a new market segment. “Today, there are many solutions,” says Adam, “but few have Duraʼs design touches, and these really make a difference. For example, our furniture has adjustable feet that most people donʼt even see. However, most garage floors are not completely flat, so when you put furniture on top, itʼs not secure and impossible to level.”
“Dura is made in the UK at our facility, using quality materials and components. Itʼs not cheap; itʼs designed and built to last,” Adam concludes. “A residential customer should look at Dura as a transformative product. Most opt to transform their entire garage, but some start with one or two cabinets, adding more over time. Our furniture can be rearranged if your needs change, or even taken with you when you move. Thatʼs the beauty of Dura. Itʼs modular, beautifully designed and built to last. It takes the largest forgotten room in your home and turns it into a space you can be proud of.”