American Retro Caravans (ARC) have almost completed transforming an Airstream caravan into a bar, as part of a project with Sharp’s brewery.
ARC, the UK’s leading Airstream restoration specialist, was formed only in 2009 and yet has already renovated countless Airstream caravans, making them suitable for a range of uses including family camping, an extended guest house, an outdoor office and, in this unique case, a bar.
The ARC website introduced the exciting new project via its regularly updated and insightful blog which is filled with photographs of the construction process.
The airstream, which is currently being turned into a bar, initially appeared to be in particular need of reparation, with one commenter stating “you’ve got your work cut out on this one.”
Indeed, ARC spokeswoman Kathy Morrison said: “The Airstream came to us in a sorry state with damage to a front end panel and the underbelly and chassis.”
To be able to work entirely from scratch, ARC removed the original aluminum and replaced it with entirely new insulation and high polished aluminum.
The interior basics such as electrics and plumbing also had to be entirely redone. This was soon followed by redecorating the interior specifically with a bar in mind, with two serving hatches, worktops, staff area, storage, tinted windows, safety flooring and, of course, the bar area.
When asked how long it took to renovate the caravan, Kathy explained:
“Time was our major hurdle. Our work was bespoke which is good for the client as their Airstream is unique to them but it does mean everything takes time as none of the fit out is off-the-shelf.
“Also you are dealing with a vintage Airstream and just like a vintage car it takes time and skill to get them back to their former glory.”
Although the Airstream caravan is still receiving its final polish, it received its pint-serving debut at a rugby match in Cardiff recently serving Sharp’s Doom Bar ale to a great response from the thirsty rugby fans.
But we were keen to find out what else the ARC team has in the pipeline?
As well plans to renovate a retro classic American style diner, create a luxury camper for a veteran of the music business to take a fishing trip, and build a caravan beauty parlour, they are also renovating a luxury 30ft Airstream designed for holiday lets.
Take a look at the Airstream bar renovating process in the slideshow and post your thoughts in the comments box below.
