It starts with a conversation,
with people who don't want to conform. They want to do it different, do it well. They want something timeless, charming, rewarding, and most importantly unforgettable.
Design consultation
For full restorations, we like to consult with you to ensure every detail is cared for and our vision for the end product is aligned.
If you already have a mini you'd like to restore and modify, we would give it a thorough inspection once the car arrives at our shop.
We are also always working on a couple shells in preparation for a build, in case you are not able to source one locally. We favour late model minis for better manufactural methods from factory and chassis updates they've made over the years.
After that is the fun part, picking and choosing colours and materials for your restoration. Our conversation about design is then filtered through the SMCO lens, ensuring cohesiveness with our brand and ensuring the value of the car.
Hand-drawn renderings are available for the more design heavy builds to give you a better idea of what the final product will look like.
Bodywork
Through working with a team of local experts, we media blast the entire shell to get a clear picture of the canvas we are starting with.
We then begin restoration of the body using OEM heritage panels. meticulously massaging the piece to achieve better than factory fitment and finish of the doors, bonnet and boot. Often times cutting and disassembling the entire door for that perfect door shut.
We prep the bare shells with Wurth spray sealers, seam sealers and rubber guard undercoat before finishing the body with either heavy coats of single stage paint for that vintage look or modern multistage paint for ease of maintenance.
PPF and ceramic coating are offered as well for years of carefree enjoyment
Mechanical Work
Every nut and bolt is removed, catalogued, and then refinished or replaced with higher quality components before reassembly.
After we are done, the car will roll off the line better than when it left the factory; and with three times the horsepower
Interior
We exclusively work with a local upholstery shop whose work is decorated internationally. Based on our initial design consultation, we can execute the design with a world-class level of craftsmanship and attention to detail using OEM materials from Bentley to Ferrari. Extended leather options are available where we apply leather from seat buckles to toggle switches.
Seats are refoamed and reshaped, and floors are levelled with foam before a specific mixture of sound deadening materials are applied through out the car.
Testing
Often times, this part of the project takes the most experience and patience to ensure the quality of the build.
We put the car through its paces with a series of tests on the highways, in town, and a rigorous idling test to mimic traffic jams. Every car is thoroughly tested and issues fixed. All the new owner needs to do is turn the key and enjoy.