George Barris opened his first custom shop in the suburb of Bell back in 1944 and later on Compton Avenue in Los Angeles with his brother who was discharged from service after WWII. Their business grew into Barris Kustom Industries which is now a mecca for any individual enthusiastic about custom cars. The Barris brothers developed a number of famous TV and movie cars such as the Batmobile, Munster Koach, Beverly Hillbillies, KITT from Nightrider and more.
In late 2014 we found ourselves exploring Los Angeles, California with T’s Bucket List in hand. The first place on his list was Barris Kustom Industries. He was keen to meet George and have a sticky beak at the cars in his shop. It was the holiday season so we were a little worried that the shop wouldn’t be open. We were blessed to find the shop open!
Whilst George was away celebrating the holidays his lovely assistant was in and was lovely enough to show us around the shop. Whilst I am not a car enthusiast like T, I was excited to come face to face with the original Batmobile and then the Munster Koach. It was a great way to introduce the kids to retro TV shows too (we watched a few episodes on YouTube later that night).
Barris Kustom Industries can be found on 10811 Riverside Drive, North Hollywood, California 91602. It’s easy to find even for us Australian’s. Parking spaces are limited.
My son spotted the batman car picture over my shoulder and wants me to drive one like that! Haha
He has good taste!