Most people who take on the enormous feat of renovating a vintage Airstream have spent months, often years, of planning before hiring the construction team. Others see the aluminum homes-on-wheels by chance and immediately realize something that has been missing in their lives. That was the case with Salt Lake City resident Jordan Menzel when he saw a 1976 Airstream Ambassador sitting on the side of the road while riding his bike. He tells Houzz, “While I hadn’t been planning to take on a restoration project, let alone live in an Airstream, it only took a few hours for me to commence scheming.”
After the renovation, Menzel listed his Airstream for rent on Airbnb. While re-designing his trailer, he aimed to create a space that had the feeling of a modern studio apartment and less like an RV. It is located in the Central Ninth Neighborhood District, an up-and-coming epicenter of contemporary, urban living near Downtown Salt Lake. Just a short walk away from great eats and local attractions, why would you opt to stay anywhere else?
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When designing a small space, multi-use functionality is key. The owner has achieved that throughout the whole Airstream. You'll first notice the openness of the living room which serves as as a seating area for six during the day and a bed for two at night.
With a minimalist aesthetic in mind, the Airstream's design focuses heavily on the power of materials such as warm woods, polished metals, and soft textiles.
Although it looks like this Airstream has undergone a complete makeover, some of the vintage elements were saved such as the kitchen's original gas stove.
These bright green cabinets provide a well-needed pop of color against the stark, white walls.
The wooden paneling on the walls was created through the deconstruction of old wooden pallets. In the back, you will find a welcoming twin bed. Under the twin bed, you will find more than enough storage.
During the renovation process, all unnecessary clutter was removed so that every inch of the Airstream serves a purpose. The kitchen counter features bar seating that doubles as an office space. Stools can be concealed and out of the way when not in use.
Bathrooms are always the toughest part of an RV renovation, but this clean and functional powder room makes it seem effortless. With the addition of an eco-friendly composting toilet, this Airstream is not just pleasing to look at, but is sustainable too.
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