Are these the caravans of the future? New ‘capsules’ that are more like a luxury hotel could launch across the UK
FORGET everything you know about holiday parks – as a new age of caravans could change them entirely.
Caravan holidays have been a popular, and low cost, alternative to holidays abroad, for the last 100 years.
Yet new designs could change the design of them, with many having not changed in decades.
Welsh designer Craig Ledwards has revealed his own creations, likening to them a luxury hotel room instead.
He told local media: “Caravans haven’t changed over the past 70 years.
“They’re exactly the same style as they’ve always been – no insulation so there’s always condensation in it, smell damp, and the layout is the same.
“But this is totally different, it’s open-plan living. It feels like you’re entering a luxury hotel room.”
Like hotels, guests can access them using key cards which are then slotted in for the electricity.
Inside are marble bathrooms and projectors in the ceiling, as well as full glass walls.
Small balconies are also part of the outdoor space, as well as a rooftop window for stargazing while inside.
He has already introduced them to north Wales last year.
He added: “It’s as far away from a static caravan as you can get – the only thing that’s the same is the size, we’ve designed it to be the same size so it can replace an old one without having to change the footprint or service connections.”
Each one, costing around £35,000 to build, is fully insulated so they can be stayed in all year round.
Not only that, but he says they have a lifespan of 50 years – much longer than standard caravans which is between 15 and 20 years.
They have been met with some skepticism, however.
Some have said that the all-glass models may not retain heat during the colder months, even if well insulated.
And a National Caravan Council spokesperson said: “New designs such as ones imported from China may appeal to a niche audience, drawn to contemporary styling and different layouts,” they said.
“But widespread appeal will depend on how well they meet the expectations of the UK holiday park market, the access to spare parts, the availability of reliable and timely after-sales service and those who are responsible for licensing their use.”
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