A well-built garage can add both function and character to a property. This 20×26 Empire Series custom garage built in Moultonborough, New Hampshire is a great example of craftsmanship paired with thoughtful design. With its barn-inspired style, durable materials, and practical layout, this structure provides reliable storage while complementing the surrounding landscape.
The combination of classic barn doors and a traditional insulated garage door gives this building a distinctive country look while still offering modern convenience and security.
A Custom Garage with Barn-Style Character
This Empire Series garage was designed to blend rustic charm with everyday usability. The double sliding white pine barn doors create a traditional farmhouse appearance, making the structure stand out while fitting naturally within a rural New England setting.
Alongside the barn doors, a 10′ x 9′ insulated Homestead garage door with glass panels adds functionality. The insulated door helps improve interior comfort while the windows allow natural light to enter the space.
The result is a garage that looks timeless while still meeting modern needs for storage, parking, and workshop space.
Strong Framing and Structural Integrity
Durability begins with the framing. This custom garage was built with materials designed for long-term performance in New England weather conditions.
Key structural features include:
- 2″ × 6″ walls with 10-foot height
- Wall studs spaced 16 inches on center
- 2″ × 8″ rafters spaced 16 inches on center
- I-joist system supporting the second floor
- 3/4″ tongue-and-groove LP Legacy sheathing on the upper floor
The strong wall and roof framing provides the stability needed for heavy snow loads and changing seasonal conditions common in northern climates.
Quality Roofing and Weather Protection
The roof structure plays a major role in protecting the garage and its contents. This Empire Series garage includes several layers of weather protection to keep moisture out.
The roofing system features:
- 7/16″ plywood roof sheathing
- Ice and water shield on the first row
- Synthetic underlayment for the remaining roof surface
- GAF Timberline architectural shingles
- Rapid Ridge vent system
Together, these components help improve ventilation while protecting the structure from rain, snow, and ice buildup.
The garage also features a 10-pitch roof, giving it the steep barn-style profile that defines the Empire Series design.
Exterior Details That Add Character
Beyond strength and function, this garage includes attractive exterior details that give it a refined appearance.
The siding uses vertical ship-lap white pine, which adds texture and natural beauty to the building. On the front of the garage, #1 cedar shingles with a 5-inch exposure create additional visual interest.
Other exterior highlights include:
- White vented soffit
- 12-inch overhang on all sides
- 8-inch white pine corner boards painted white
- 32-inch decorative cupola
These features contribute to the classic New England barn aesthetic while also improving ventilation and roof protection.
Bright Interior with Natural Light
Natural light plays an important role in making a garage more comfortable and usable. This custom build includes several windows that brighten the interior during the day.
The garage features:
- Five 36″ × 30″ white awning windows
- Two additional 36″ × 30″ awning windows with tempered glass
These windows allow sunlight to fill the space while maintaining durability and safety.
A 3-foot pre-hung fiberglass entry door with nine-lite glass panels provides convenient access to the building while matching the clean exterior design.
Functional Second Floor Space
One of the standout features of this Empire Series garage is the usable second floor loft area. Access is provided through an L-shaped staircase with handrail, making it easy and safe to reach the upper level.
This additional space can serve many purposes, including:
- Storage for seasonal items
- Workshop space
- Hobby area
- Future finished loft
The I-joist system and LP Legacy sheathing provide a strong and stable floor, allowing the upper level to handle heavier loads.
Built On-Site in Moultonborough, NH
This custom Empire Series garage was built on site in Moultonborough, New Hampshire, allowing it to be tailored to the property and local building requirements.
On-site construction provides flexibility in design and allows builders to carefully assemble the structure with precision and attention to detail.
The result is a garage that fits seamlessly into the property while delivering long-term reliability.
Design Your Own Custom Garage
Every property has different needs, and a custom garage can be designed to match those needs perfectly. From size and layout to materials and exterior finishes, the Empire Series offers a wide range of customization options.
If you are considering a new garage for your property, you can explore design possibilities and pricing using the online builder.
