Restoring a classic car is always a journey that walks the line between preservation and modernisation. In the case of this beautifully reimagined Austin 8, the interior refurbishment was nothing short of a labour of love, guided by the unique vision of the car’s owner and brought to life with craftsmanship and care. This blog explores the meticulous restoration process from start to finish, highlighting the techniques and materials used to create an interior that stands apart while still honouring the spirit of this iconic British motor.
At Gigi Auto Upholstery, we don’t just restore interiors — we breathe new life into classic cars. In one of our most detailed and bespoke projects to date, we had the privilege of completely reimagining the interior of a classic Austin 8. Guided by the owner’s vision and executed with our signature craftsmanship, this project blends historic charm with custom luxury. Here’s how we turned a well-loved classic into a one-of-a-kind motoring masterpiece.
A Vision Beyond Original: Bespoke by Design
Unlike many classic car restorations focusing solely on replicating the original, this Austin 8 interior refurbishment took a more tailored route. The vehicle’s owner, a true enthusiast and a friend of the upholsterer wanted something more personal—a truly bespoke interior that maintained the charm of the original design while elevating the overall experience with high-quality materials and detailed finishes.
This was not a standard reproduction. Instead, it was a project led by passion and precision, where every decision was made in close collaboration with the client.
Step One: Restoring the Framework
The project began with carefully restoring the car’s original interior structure. Where possible, original parts were salvaged, cleaned, and repaired.
- Metal seat frames and other key elements—including the armrests beside the rear seats—were carefully cleaned, sandblasted, and painted to ensure they were not only functional but also rust-free and refreshed.
- Unfortunately, the original door panels were missing, so bespoke replacements were created from scratch and designed to complement the new interior theme.
This initial phase focused on laying a strong foundation. Preserving what could be saved was essential, but the craftsmanship didn’t stop there.
The Break – and a Full Car Overhaul
Once the structural restoration was completed, the project paused briefly. During this time, the client turned their attention to other areas of the car:
- The engine was restored and fully serviced.
- Electrical wiring was checked, repaired, or replaced as needed.
- All chrome parts received a refresh.
- Finally, the entire vehicle underwent a full-body respray, giving the Austin 8 a renewed presence on the road.
Only after these vital improvements were completed did the car return for the next phase of interior refinement.
Premium Materials for a Premium Finish
When the Austin 8 returned, it was time to address comfort and luxury. The next chapter of the refurbishment brought in premium, period-appropriate materials with a modern level of finish:
- A brand-new wool carpet was fitted throughout the cabin, resting on a generous layer of underfelt rubber insulation. This improved comfort and soundproofing and gave the cabin a plush, high-quality feel. The wool carpet was hand tailored in the Gigi workshop, and luxruty that does not go unnoticed. Whilst Gigi offers the option to have carpets made elsewhere this custom carpet finishes the entire look.
- The headliner was made of luxurious West of England all-wool cloth, a nod to traditional British motoring materials and a symbol of refined taste.
The Details That Make the Difference
What sets this project apart is the attention to the most minor details – the touches that often go unnoticed but contribute enormously to the overall experience:
- Sun visors were wrapped in leather and hand-stitched, creating a tactile luxury rarely seen in vehicles of this era.
- The steering wheel also received the same treatment, with bespoke hand-stitched leather, transforming a functional component into a centrepiece.
- Although the Austin 8 originally featured a stripped boot, this project didn’t stop at the cabin. The boot was fully lined with new panels and matching carpet, giving it a complete and cohesive finish.
- As a final flourish, a bespoke leather handbag was crafted using the same leather as the interior – a beautifully thoughtful touch that brought the entire refurbishment together.
Final Thoughts: A Classic Reimagined with Passion
This Austin 8 interior refurbishment project is a testament to what can be achieved when passion, skill, and vision come together. Every element – from the sandblasted seat frames to the hand-stitched sun visors – was carefully chosen and executed to the highest standard.
This was not just a restoration but a re-imagination of a British motoring icon, giving the vehicle new life while staying true to its historic charm. The result is a classic car that feels both timeless and unique.
Whether you’re a classic car enthusiast, a restoration specialist, or simply someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, this Austin 8 is a shining example of what is possible with dedication, knowledge, and a deep respect for the automobile’s history.
