ABOUT BST CLASSICS
For over 14 years, BST Classics has been the premier destination for classic car restoration and customization in Iowa. Our team of passionate craftsmen combines traditional techniques with modern innovation to bring automotive dreams to life.
OUR STORY
Founded in 2010 by Brandon Tjaden, BST Classics began as a small shop with big dreams.
What started as a personal passion for classic cars has grown into one of Iowa's most respected restoration facilities, serving clients across the Midwest and beyond.
Every classic car has a story, and every restoration should honor that story while enhancing it for future generations. We've restored everything from family heirlooms to rare muscle cars, each project receiving the same level of attention and craftsmanship.
Today, our 14,000-square-foot facility in Norwalk, Iowa, houses state-of-the-art equipment alongside traditional hand tools, allowing us to tackle everything from complete frame-off restorations to custom engine builds and modern performance upgrades.
OUR JOURNEY
From humble beginnings to becoming Iowa's premier classic car restoration facility.
The Beginning
BST was founded in a one and a half car residential garage at Brandon's house on the south side of Des Moines.
First Major Expansion
BST Classics moved into a 1,200 sq ft 2-bay shop on Army Post Rd in Des Moines.
Shop Renovation
Exterior and interior facelift of existing building, appealing to new customers!
First Full Restoration
1981 Firebird complete engine, driveline, suspension, interior, paint, and body.
First Hemi Swap
1968 Dodge Charger with a 40-year upgrade to an '08 5.7 Hemi.
Worldwide Recognition
1959 Chevy Apache shipped to United Kingdom.
BST Classic Rod and Custom is Born
With the overwhelming amount of custom and classic work, Brandon decided to split into 2 separate entities.
The 2nd Major Expansion
Renovation of car wash across from Tjaden Automotive gave us flexibility between businesses.
Acquisition of Current Property
Brandon bought his grandfather's farm and turned the dirt floor barns into the current BST and Bullet Racing facilities.
Open for Business
Dissolved Tjaden Automotive, sold building in Des Moines to focus solely on restorations.
Continued Growth
Moved all paint and body services in house with the addition of a 4,800 sq ft body shop, bringing total footprint to just shy of 14,000 sq ft!
MEET THE TEAM
Our team of passionate craftsmen brings decades of combined experience to every project.
Brandon Tjaden
Founder & Lead Craftsman
With over 20 years of experience in automotive restoration, Brandon leads our team with a passion for perfection and an eye for detail that sets the standard for classic car restoration in the Midwest.
Trae Bruce
Lead Body & Paint Specialist
With extensive experience in collision repair and custom painting, Trae ensures every restoration achieves show-quality finishes. His work has won awards at regional car shows.
Katie Wicker
Lead Technician
Katie leads our technical operations with precision and expertise. Her systematic approach ensures every project meets the highest standards of quality and authenticity.
Luke Clewell
Mechanical Specialist
Luke brings deep mechanical expertise to every restoration project. His attention to detail and passion for precision ensures that every engine, transmission, and mechanical system operates flawlessly for years to come.
OUR VALUES
The principles that guide every restoration project we undertake.
Quality First
Every project receives the same level of attention and craftsmanship, regardless of size or scope.
Preserve History
We honor the original design and character while enhancing performance and reliability.
Trust & Transparency
Clear communication and honest pricing throughout every step of the restoration process.
OUR FACILITY
Our 14,000-square-foot facility in Norwalk, Iowa, is equipped with everything needed to bring classic cars back to life. From our climate-controlled paint booth to our dedicated engine shop, every aspect of our facility is designed for quality and efficiency.
Climate-Controlled Paint Booth
Professional paint application in a controlled environment
Dedicated Engine Bay
We understand the intricacies of engine performance
Complete Tool Set
Traditional hand tools alongside modern diagnostic equipment
BY THE NUMBERS
Our track record speaks for itself.
READY TO START YOUR PROJECT?
Now that you know our story and expertise, let's discuss your classic car restoration goals and create a plan to bring your vision to life.