Car enthusiasts prefer to drive, rather than park. David Stone of Ketchum runs an indulgent garage that tempts car guys away from the road.
"I wanted the ultimate garage," Stone said.
Stone created a plush 13,000-square-foot facility in Hailey that caters to car fanatics. The Sun Valley Auto Club opened its doors in October as a catalyst to unite car enthusiasts. The business will open its doors for the Hailey Chamber of Commerce "Business After Hours" gathering from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17, in the Airport West business park, 1930 Electra Lane, in Hailey.
"Our motto is 'There's nothing else like it,' and there really isn't anything else like it," Stone said.
Located near Friedman Memorial Airport, the Sun Valley Auto Club offers a storage-based facility that includes an exclusive club membership, car detailing services and a valet-like airport transportation service.
The auto club is the apex of the services offered. The club provides museum-like storage space for car collectors, access to a private lounge and connections to other car enthusiasts.
"What I was looking for was a real club feel," Stone said.
The club welcomes enthusiasts to a custom-built, climate-controlled facility with 14 year-round spaces and additional winter spots reserved for club members.
Members maintain 24-hour access to the facility. Amenities include a lounge complete with cozy seating, a flat-screen TV, wireless Internet access, a poker table, a car-theme library, refreshments and a Double Diamond D slot machine.
A line of classic automobiles, fine sports cars and rare finds park on the metallic acid-stained concrete floors. The line of automobiles conjures the feeling of an exclusive automobile museum.
Two facing rows of parked cars include a 1965 Ford Ranchero, 1957 Cadillac Coup deVille, 1969 Chevrolet Camaro RS, 1971 Corvette Stingray, 1950 Mercury Coupe and 1943 Ford Army jeep.
The owners of all the vehicles share a distinct appreciation for their cars.
"It's art that you see, you feel, you hear. It's art on different levels," Stone said.
A separate wing has space for 40 vehicles.
Stone, who grew up in Ketchum and has remained active in the valley's youth community, said the passion enables teenagers and adults to converse on a level playing field.
"Once you share a passion, everything else goes out the door," he said.
Stone inherited his enthusiasm for cars from his father, Bob, who actively contributes to the business.
"For the first time in 20 years, I really need my Dad," he said.
Stone commissioned Hailey-based artist John Blackman to transform World War II Bomber nose art into wall décor. The classic images enliven the interior.
The walls also boast high-gloss metallic siding. The reflection of the walls accentuates the curvature nuances of each car. Stone's meticulous care of each vehicle reflects from the glistening fenders.
The club's welcoming atmosphere and Stone's congenial personality facilitate the connection of car enthusiasts.
"It's a place for people who want to talk about cars," he said.
Sun Valley Auto Club owner David Stone stands beside his dream car, a 1963 Porsche 356 B.
