Borradori Garage I

Perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean in Cayucos, CA, this simple yet elegant retired machine shop has captivated the Central Coast. While I can’t speak to why others are drawn to it, there is no doubt why it resonates with me. It embodies all the qualities I admire: its solitary position with no other buildings in sight gives it the “notice me” factor that I discussed in relation to Portland. The design is functional yet intriguingly quirky, featuring a false front and a partially buried ground level.

The font used for its signage adds to its charm, seamlessly integrating with the building’s façade. Whether the signage influenced the design or vice versa, it works so well that it’s hard to imagine the building without it. The building’s clear self-representation underscores its dedication to its original purpose, which I find deeply appreciable.