When we think of garages today, we think of large forecourts, multiple pumps under a large shelter and inside a shop with a deli, but it wasn't always like that. When garages for fixing cars or selling fuel were first built they were a brand new type of building. As garages had never existed before they had no fixed look or design style to fall back on, and in addition, they were providing for the fast and modern motor vehicle. This allowed them to use the new modern building style of Art Deco, which itself was loosley based on Aztec architecture with it’s stepped roof profile. These often overlooked, small, modest buildings can be found everywhere in Ireland, adding a layer of 1930s and 40s architectural design to towns and villages.
Kilkelly, Co. Mayo, with sign at the front, saying 'Ola', Irish for 'oil' and written in the old Irish font.
Norht Circular Road, Dublin
Ballindine, also in Mayo.
Oranmore in Co. Galway
Longwood, County Meath.
Indreabhan in Co. Galway.
Art Deco with Classical columns in Sixmilebridge in Co. Clare.
Portumna, Co. Galway
