Modern Detached Garage: Custom 3-Bay Design in Phoenicia, NY
Modern Detached Garage: Custom 3-Bay Design in Phoenicia, NY
Phoenicia is nestled in the heart of the Catskill Mountains in Upstate, NY. In the Spring of 2024 we set out to build a custom three-car detached garage on a large acreage property located on the very top of a mountain.
Surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests and creeks now stands a stunning example of Timber’s stylish engineering and design.
Before we get into this rewarding yet challenging construction project let’s take a look at the rich history of the region. From its early Native American roots to its development as a hub for industry and tourism, Phoenicia’s story is one of transformation.
Located 100 miles from New York City Phoenicia is rapidly becoming a desirable place to live while getting away from the city. Doing a project in this area opened up our eyes to both the topography, the rich historical background and the booming cultural development.
Image Source: Google Maps
Given the location of this garage-build on a mountain we had to consider seasonal challenges, materials, and how to actually get large trucks and equipment up to the top.
This project was originally planned to start in the Fall of 2023 but as permits and unforeseen circumstances pushed the start date back we realized that a steep and icy road wasn’t ideal for a winter start. As a result we pushed the project to Spring of 2024.
THE PROJECT
The Transformation: From Old to New with Utility and Practicality in Mind
Before the construction of the 3-bay modern garage began, this property housed an
outdated structure that no longer met the homeowner's needs. As an avid outdoor enthusiast and hunter a larger and more functional space was needed for our client. The original compact 2-car garage had served its original purpose but it no longer aligned with the homeowner’s vision of a more modern and versatile space.
The transformation from the modest structure to a stunning multi-use garage provided the necessary space and functionality to house tools, machinery, and equipment for all of their outdoor interests.
Architectural Vision
The new building was envisioned as more than just a storage space for vehicles and equipment; it was designed to blend in with the natural surroundings while simultaneously making an architectural statement on its own.
The philosophy behind this project sought to create a build that wouldn’t be a “period piece” but would maintain a sense of classic timelessness, balancing contemporary design elements and the rustic charm of the Catskills’ landscape.
The garage site location sits in a perfect position on the property for renovation. As you come up the long driveway trees surround you on both sides. There is a beautiful forest floor filled with native rocks and ferns. You can see that over the years hiking trails have been cut through certain areas to explore the gifts of nature.
As you approach the building site and near the apex of the mountain there is a wide clearing with a pond in front of a stunning country home. Turning around provides a panoramic view of the Catskills.
From the inside of the garage when the doors are wide open the angle and view of the surrounding mountains is breathtaking. It’s actually so serene that we joke around with the client that he might end up spending more time in his new garage than in the adjacent home.
Interior Innovation
From the beginning of this project, the main goal was to have an open floor plan without any space obstructions. We were able to achieve this by using heavy-duty steel I-beams to carry the weight load.
Using this method of steel engineering created a more functional space for the homeowner to move about. SUVs, ATVs, trucks, and equipment could now be easily housed.
At the completion of the job the customer set up a dining table in the newly modeled garage and served us a delicious lunch from Woodstock Brewing. None of us anticipated sharing a meal in such a stunning space. This demonstrates that Timber’s functional designs transcend the ordinary, turning a garage into a multifunctional space.
Strategically placed occupancy-sensored lighting ensures that the interior is well-lit whenever occupied. A wall-hung propane fired heater was installed to take the chill off in the cold months.
THE DESIGN
This design prioritizes clean lines without being too flashy or over-reaching.
The building incorporates neutral tones and natural-style materials to ensure a seamless blend with the property. The client had been through multiple renovation projects and also worked professionally in industrial engineering. This experience allowed him to be at the forefront of selecting the exterior elements of the structure and his attention to detail was a great catalyst to Timber’s dedication to craftsmanship.
All the details from the garage’s layout to the finishing touches were carefully planned and well-considered to enhance both functionality and visual appeal.
Exterior Inspiration and Material Selection
We classify this garage as transitional and timeless.
The extended dormer that projects out from the classic roof line adds style and natural light. Protruding over the center garage door is a separate roof that not only adds some cover from the elements but also contains elements of texture and style. The awning is accented with beautiful cedar beams and a standing-seam metal roof that contrasts nicely with the Pewter Timberline UHDZ Shingles.
The base of the garage is clad in locally sourced fieldstone and finished off with a Bluestone cap, an ode to the history of the Bluestone industry in Phoenicia.
Horizontal siding by James Hardie makes up a majority of the exterior aesthetic. Products made by Hardie are synthetic and made to look like wood but built to withstand the elements.
Together all of these factors create a beautiful structure that emerges out of the mountain and blends in with nature.
The Challenges
All construction projects have their own unique challenges.
Besides the obstacle of getting machinery and material up a long and steep driveway, the excavation phase was riddled with slow-downs.
The first challenge we faced was that the entire footprint of the garage-to-be-built was not on stable ground.
Under the surface were huge boulders that had to be moved away from the construction site as well as garbage from the original house build and tree strumps from previous land clearing.
Once the foundation was clear of all the unknown debris we were hit with another surprise: There was a natural spring that was basically filling up the foundation hole with water. To remedy this we used a pump to remove the water during construction of the foundation.
Even while facing challenges throughout the project we take pride in problem solving and always put quality and longevity first.
Want a Garage that’s More than just a Garage? Let’s talk.
If you’re inspired by this project and want to create a space that’s both functional and beautiful our team is here to help.
Feel free to check out the Full Video on our Youtube Channel and Contact Us today to start your journey toward exceptional design and craftsmanship.
