Ordinary cars take you from point A to point B. Exceptional cars, however, are far more than just vehicles—they bring both joy and challenges. Like fine art, they require care and attention. And like well-aged wine, their value often grows over time. These cars are fueled not just by gas but by their owners' dreams, memories, passion, and devotion. When buying one, people are guided more by heart than by reason. The English call this a "passion investment"—a choice made not for financial gain but for happiness. Only those who’ve invested in such a car understand the delight of taking a classic Aston Martin out for a weekend drive, even if only once a year.
English collectors entrust their rare, old, and incredibly valuable classic cars to the skilled hands of Lithuanian expert MONIKA ŽIŽIŪNĖ. Eight years ago, she founded her company, MKN UPHOLSTERY, specializing in car interior restoration. In a field dominated by men, Monika earned respect and trust one step at a time. “Of course, new clients still stare in surprise, wondering how I’ll manage,” she laughs. “But sometimes I’m the one surprised by how little some men know about cars.”
A New World
When I visited the garage in Grays, Monika was in the midst of restoring a 1960s Jaguar. “This one is tricky,” she explains, “since it’s a European model, not British. It has a modified gearbox and central systems, so I collaborate with mechanics who cut, weld, bend and hammer the structure. Then I handle the upholstery, carpets, leather, and assemble the interior.”
Next week, a new Volkswagen van awaits her, followed by a 2017 Range Rover. “I work constantly, but it’s engaging, not stressful, when you love your work. I even answer clients' calls during vacations. I never say no to a new project, whether restoring aeroplane seats or an antique sofa. If I don’t know something, I research and learn. No job is beneath me.”
One of the toughest aspects of running MKN Upholstery is the physical challenge—lifting massive parts or unscrewing rusted bolts. “I try to do as much as possible myself. I’m determined: I want to unscrew, drill, cut, and polish everything myself. But sometimes, despite my stubbornness, I do have to ask for help.”
Monika began restoring cars in Lithuania as a teenager, assisting her father. However, her journey into the world of classic vehicles only started after she moved to England. “There weren’t many classic cars in Lithuania, so I didn’t have the chance to work with them. When I moved to the UK, like many immigrants, I took any job I could to get by, but I kept searching for work with cars. Within six months, I had my first orders.”
Restoring an antique car usually takes about two months, sometimes longer. “At first, the car’s value sometimes made my hands tremble. But over time, I got used to it. Now, I focus only on the work—what I can improve—not the car’s price.”
First Impressions Are Misleading
Next to Monika’s office is a showroom for classic cars that feels more like a museum than a store; casual visitors rarely wander in. A meticulously polished 1911 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost gleams in soft lighting, valued at £1,425,000. Nearby sits a 1938 Jaguar SS100 (£750,000) and a 1964 Bentley S3 Continental Chinese Eye Convertible (£325,000). Even a striking red Ferrari doesn’t capture as much attention here as it might on London’s streets. The showroom is dominated by Bentley and Rolls Royce models, beloved in England, though an American Cadillac in the corner hints at a growing fan base for them, too.
Monika admits that sometimes she assumes she’s speaking to an agent rather than the actual owner about a car’s restoration. “I still expect a well-dressed gentleman and get a little nervous before the meeting. But then the door opens, and it’s just a regular, friendly guy in worn-out shoes and casual clothes. Yet his garage holds several classic cars.”
Over English tea, these gentlemen often share stories about their treasured cars. “Most of my clients are in their 60s or 70s. In their youth, they could only dream of these cars, which they now can finally own. These vehicles aren’t just transportation but memories of their youth, nostalgia.”
Conversations rarely stop at the details and costs of restoration. “The topics, naturally, are about cars. Clients often talk about their families too, but mostly, it’s about their past and current cars, how many they have, and where they drive them. It’s fascinating and helps me understand their expectations.”
Some stories are even funny. One client, the proud owner of a Rover favored by the royal family, shared how he and his wife took the car out for a Saturday dinner. The restaurant was buzzing; some cars had to move to make room for his massive Rover. The owner greeted them, offered the best table, and people took photos of the car. On the way home, however, the car broke down, and they had to wait hours for recovery service. They arrived home late, exhausted. After this “romantic” outing, his wife nagged him, suggesting maybe it was time to sell the Rover.
“Imagine, Monika! How could I sell my masterpiece?” he smiled. And he still thought the evening was fantastic despite the hiccups. English humour is alive and well!
For those thinking about a classic car because a neighbour has one, disappointment is inevitable, Monika says. These cars demand passion; otherwise, the maintenance, expenses, and worries become overwhelming.
MKN Upholstery doesn’t just focus on classic cars. Monika has many Lithuanian clients who want custom interiors for their business vans, complete with leather, embroidered company logos, and specialized layouts. “I tend to forget faces, names, and voices—but I remember each car,” Monika notes.
Self-Taught and Driven
Monika began her career in car restoration very early. As a teenager, she was stitching car interior details instead of doll dresses. “I didn’t attend any specialized courses or schools; I taught myself.”
Her father worked on car interiors, and at sixteen, Monika was drawn to the independence that came with earning her own money.
“I helped my dad here and there, but I’d often lose interest because the work seemed dull. But the independence that came with earning money kept me going. Over time, I learned new things, did more serious tasks, and discovered there was more to this work than I first thought. My father used traditional methods while I explored innovations, attended exhibitions and discovered new suppliers in major Lithuanian cities.”
Monika’s determination to improve led her to rent her own space and start her own business, even becoming a competitor to her father. “The market in Panevėžys, Lithuania, was small, but there were enough clients to keep the business going for 12 years. I mainly worked with car resellers and saw that car culture differs vastly between England and Lithuania.”
Amidst the constant orders, Monika still makes time for her hobbies, enjoying salsa dancing, nature outings, and bike rides with her children. “Greenwich is my favorite place in London; the changing seasons are so beautiful here. The pink blooms in spring, and the colourful leaves in autumn. Each season brings its own wonder.”
Lithuanian Business Link. This project is partially funded by the Lithuanian Media Support Fund.
