Make the interior work for you
Modern or Vintage
We have seen many retro looking updates made in homes – kitchens with Formica topped tables, chrome legs and padded chairs with seats and backs covered in red vinyl. Some manufacturers now offer round top 50’s style refrigerators and other period appliances. But for some, that great idea at home isn’t always what they want in their vintage Airstreams. They have the vintage exterior and that’s enough for them. The inside can be made as modern as possible, and they don’t miss the aging wood panels and metal corners.
We’ll take a look at some interior updates, some modern – some vintage, and see what works for your taste.
Keeping Vintage with Updates
Our first two trailers show some tasteful updates to the existing interior while still maintaining the original look. The first example, a ’64 Safari, shows a new stove, sink and fridge built into a cabinet. A long bench/bed is handy for enjoying your morning coffee while gazing out the window at the view.
This ’54 Wanderer ‘Whale Tail’ still has its rustic charm even after a few minor changes.
All the new wood was stained to match existing. Original checkerboard flooring was preserved just to keep it real!
Yes, it’s a ‘Whale Tail’… we want one!!
The (kinda) Vintage Look
This trailer’s interior dances in both the old and new. The polished endcap interior of this 1956 Bubble proudly shows off the ’50’s appearance but dark rich wood tones and crushed red velvet is not the first thing that comes to mind in that era. Well, unless you are Marilyn Monroe.
An under counter mounted sink and modern faucets with a custom mixed wood cutting board finishes the story that this owner preferred an updated look. And we must agree that it looks sensational.
Here’s a look at the above trailer before built-ins were added. Those reflective 13 panels almost do away with the need for mirrors!
The modernized space has a very open inviting feel for such a small space.
Hickory Wrapped
The interior of this 1964 Safari is wrapped with real hickory panels.
Did we mention ‘Vintage Fridge?’
Modern
Modern conveniences, like washers and microwaves in your camper can really make a camping trip much more enjoyable. You know darn well that if microwaves existed in the 50’s, they would have had one in the camper. They had a fridge instead of an ice box, didn’t they?
In addition to adding plenty of storage space, this wall of cupboards also includes a built-in baby bed.
A new modern kitchen with aluminum lined walls for easy cleaning. In this case the couple wanted a clothes washer built in. The convenience of this location really makes a lot of sense.
White and clean prevails in this newer trailer buildout. Wood plank vinyl flooring warms the feeling of the space.
Modern with an Industrial Twist
This 1957 Sovereign interior is totally redone with a dark interior which makes the details pop.
Regular chairs instead of built-ins adds to the charm.
A black front fridge/freezer blends it into the cabinetry.
Carrying through with the butcher block counter theme, these bedside tables are a great place to lay your book and set your coffee. Wall mounting reading lamps in black are a nice touch. 13 panel polished aluminum endcap plays with the lighting.
Bathroom Ideas
Just because the bathroom is in a camper doesn’t mean it has to look like a camper bathroom. This layout makes efficient use of space and still looks great. A stainless bowl with a farmhouse faucet looks good in front of the subway patterned ceramic tile. The use of galvanized pipe and fittings for curtain rods, robe hooks and shelf mounts are seen throughout the trailer hinting at an industrial look but blending well with the white modern theme.
Notice the jute rope trim covering the seam.
Now back to our 57 Sovereign, check out this ‘Steampunk’ look for your bath!
All piping is exposed to keep the Steampunk theme alive.
Saloon doors add some privacy.
Yes, she’s a beauty on the outside, too.
We just love the clean appearance of this bathroom.
Yes, Airstream bathrooms can be tiled, too!
It’s all about your Comfort
Can you think of a cozier looking place to curl up with a book and relax?
Published: September 16, 2019 ~ Updated: December 12, 2022 ~ Author: Staff Writer
