Santa Barbara, California–based Innovative Spaces gave this 1984 triple-axle Excella a complete gut and shell-off renovation—and the result is a cozy retreat for a young family in San Antonio, Texas. The renovation focused on maximizing space in the 34-foot-long trailer and making it off-grid compatible for weekend getaways and long-term vacations.

To renovate the chassis, Innovative Spaces removed the shell and added a lift kit that introduced at least five inches of headroom throughout, and 8 inches to the areas where skylights are located throughout the trailer.

“The original factory layout was completely redesigned into a more functional space for the family,” says Nate Stover, Innovative Spaces owner and lead builder. An open-concept layout, high ceilings, and 12 automated skylights make the 225-square-foot living space feel spacious and bright.

“A large bathroom and kitchen were also very important aspects of the layout,” Stover says. A wraparound kitchen is situated in the front of the Airstream, out of the way of traffic flow, with plenty of space for food prep and storage.

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In the middle of the trailer, the living and dining area is the hub for the home on wheels. A dinette converts into a baby crib, and a large, custom leather sofa offers up plenty of seating.

A central pass-though wet bathroom is sandwiched between the living space and rear bedroom. “The pass-through bathroom is a unique feature not often seen, making for a large, oversized spa-like experience,” Stover says. The wet bath includes teak flooring, Carrera marble penny tiles, and four skylights. “The bathroom is much larger than most typical RV spaces.” 

Just beyond the bathroom, the bedroom is nestled at the rear of the Airstream. The sleeping quarters are equipped with a custom memory-foam queen bed, a side table, dresser drawer storage, and reading lights.

As for the aesthetic, “they wanted it to be farmhouse style with touches of modern lines, warm woods, and some color,” Stover says.

The walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee, and details like custom maple cabinetry, brass hardware, and neutral textiles give the interior a cozy, contemporary feel.

The electrical and plumbing systems are thoughtfully hidden away in custom cabinetry and underneath furnishings. For instance, batteries that provide off-grid power are tucked away beneath the custom leather sofa, and a furnace is hidden out of sight under the bed.

“They also wanted the capability for off-grid living, but still sought the connectivity and technology available in the comfort of their home,” Stover says.  Thanks to 200-watt solar panels, a 600aH lithium-ion battery bank, a charge controller, and a 2,500-watt inverter, the trailer can go off-grid for three to five days.

“This allows them the freedom of being able to stay anywhere they would like without having to hook up to power,” Stover says. “The unit also has its own cell phone signal booster, as well as an independent Wi-Fi system.”

Related Reading:

An Adventurer and Her Pets Find Solace in a 1973 Airstream Tradewind

A 1973 Airstream Gets an Organic Remodel Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright

Project Credits:

Builder/General Contractor: Nate Stover, Innovative Spaces / @innovativespaces

Interior Design: Lauren Ravenhill, LF Design Studios

Cabinetry Design & Installation: Nate Stover, Innovative Spaces

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