When the Hymer Group asked us to think about the future of camping trailers, we didn't use any fancy tools, just the usual statistics. Designers may not be known for studying figures, but it is possible to derive interesting product strategies from them.
The average age at which a caravan is purchased is 39.6 years. These are mainly families with one or two children aged 3-5 years. A caravan is used for an average of 12-18 years. During this time, children will live through their childhood and adolescence, reaching the age of 15 to 23. While children seek closeness to their parents during the day and at night in their early years, this relationship and the associated closeness to parents changes. As a result, the living space must adapt. IKEA is well-positioned to benefit from these circumstances.
This raises an important question: what does this mean for a caravan that can only offer very limited space? When on holiday, every member of the family wants to pursue their interests – and they deserve to. The solution is clear: the interior must be flexible enough to transform and create separate areas for each family member. The biggest challenge is to realise this concept consistently, despite the compelling logic.
We have used two existing concepts. The first caravan from Dethleffs was a game-changing innovation: a caravan with a lifting roof that could be modified in height after the journey. The second idea was to create a split-level house with all the necessary functionality. This involves creating different levels with easy access and different uses. The lifting roof allows users to utilise an additional level and benefit from an intermediate level. We had another idea: the rooms of a caravan should look like our home. Many of the solutions available to date are simply not fit for purpose. They are reminiscent of public transport in trains, buses or aeroplanes. Overhead lockers, permanently installed benches and ladders are familiar from couchettes and aeroplanes, but not from flats. We have installed stairs with storage space, seating and storage options that you can move around, and interior accessories that are reminiscent of a flat. We have also installed a panoramic window in the rear area that can be opened completely so that you can enjoy the view of nature. Our ideas were realised in the Venture S motorhome from Hymer.
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