Inside the Disappearing Garage

Kileen Pitt Kileen Pitt Apr 09, 2024 Found Classic
Inside the Disappearing Garage

Nestled within the prestigious Sierra Star estate on Lake Tahoe, Nevada, lies a hidden gem that car enthusiasts could only dream of – the Carriage House garage. Built by former software engineer and car collector, Tom Gonzales, this underground marvel is a testament to passion, ingenuity, and the ultimate car collecting dream.

The Carriage House garage, part of the Sierra Star estate, is a shrine for automotive aficionados. Spanning 12,000 square feet, with half of the space tucked underground, it offers a sanctuary for a sizable fleet of automobiles, protected from the elements and hidden from the world above.

Accessed via a discreet aircraft elevator or a two-bike lift, the underground bunker is a marvel of engineering, measuring 60 feet in length and 12 feet in width. Capable of carrying up to 250,000 lbs, it seamlessly blends into its surroundings with faux trees and rocks disguising its presence.

Tom Gonzales spared no expense in designing the ultimate garage. Heated, ventilated, and pillar-free, it provides ample space for maneuvering vehicles without constraints. From Audis to Range Rovers, Jeeps to ATVs, the garage once housed a staggering $30 million worth of collectibles, safeguarded from prying eyes.

Yet, amidst the opulence, Gonzales's decision to sell the estate stemmed from its sheer size, acknowledging that it surpassed his needs. Nevertheless, the Carriage House garage remains a pinnacle of automotive luxury, captivating the imagination of car collectors worldwide.

For those who dare to dream, the Carriage House garage stands as a testament to the enduring allure of automotive excellence. It's not just a garage; it's a symbol of passion, innovation, and the ultimate car collector's fantasy brought to life.