Interesting question on an open, barn-style layout vs. a midas-style multiple bay layout. I see pros and cons on both sides here:
Open style pros:
- Cheaper to build
- Cheaper to heat with one door (important for you up in Mass)
- Able to centralize and move about the shop easier
Midas style pros:
- Looks better from the street (subject to opinion, but most would agree that this appeals more than this)
- Vehicle are in and out much quicker, no traffic jam at the door (the shops in our city do 50-60 cars a day)
Personally, I'm a fan of the Midas style, and we are actually in the middle of renovating our building as such. However, we are in Atlanta. In Mass, weather becomes a concern, which makes me understand the open style.