Master cabinet maker Kevin Molick of Grand Junction, Colorado, has reimagined a 1951 Spartan Spartanette, blending modern functionality with the trailer’s classic aesthetic. Rather than restoring the interior to its original mid-century design, Molick chose a simplified contemporary style that pays homage to the Spartan’s timeless lines while enhancing its durability and practicality.
A Craftsman’s Approach to Interior Refinement
With his expertise in woodworking, Molick had the ability to create materials not commercially available—such as custom maple veneers—allowing him to improve upon the already well-crafted Spartan structure. All interior walls and ceilings have been replaced with Maple rather than the standard Birch paneling. Maple, a harder wood, offers superior scratch and dent resistance while displaying a denser, richer grain that absorbs varnish more deeply.
Because ⅛” Maple plywood is not commercially produced, Molick veneered his own plywood in his shop. This custom fabrication resulted in a more durable finish without adding extra weight. Complementing the maple walls, all cabinetry is crafted from Rift Sawn White Oak, chosen for its uniform grain pattern, which pairs elegantly with the natural Maple. Every piece of woodwork is finished with an ultra-low VOC finish, ensuring a safer, faster-curing alternative to traditional lacquers and varnishes.
Preserving the Spartan’s Exterior & Classic Design Elements
While the interior has been updated for longevity, the exterior remains as close to the original as possible. The trailer has been polished to restore its iconic aluminum finish, and the screen doors were completely disassembled, refinished, and reinstalled—modernized with improved structural techniques to eliminate weak points in the original design.
Throughout the build, Molick incorporated curved elements in the cabinetry and bed to subtly echo the original Spartan aesthetic. The window frames were redesigned as single units to allow for quick removal when screen replacements are needed. Additionally, rather than leaving the window jambs as exposed aluminum, Molick opted for an all-wood finish, creating a warmer, more polished interior while maintaining the trailer’s industrial exterior.
Modern Comfort Meets Vintage Functionality
True to the original Spartan design, this restoration does not include freshwater or greywater storage tanks. Instead, it is intended for use in semi-permanent locations, with fully functional plumbing and electrical systems that connect easily to standard campground utilities.
The corner table is crafted from solid White Oak, featuring a diagonal grain pattern for a distinctive look. The bathroom retains its original shower configuration, but the walls and ceiling have been stripped and refinished with durable epoxy paint. The flooring is penny tile, and a new Dometic toilet has been installed for modern convenience.
For the main flooring, Molick chose Marmoleum, a floating floor with a cork underlayment to provide cushioning and insulation while offering a natural contrast to the wood-paneled walls.
Updated Electrical & Climate Control Systems
The electrical system has been completely rewired with modern 3-prong grounded outlets and a new circuit panel with updated breakers for safety. To ensure year-round comfort, the Spartanette is equipped with a mini-split HVAC system, which provides both heating and air conditioning. Paired with Colorado-level insulation, this setup ensures a comfortable living space in any season.
About Kevin Molick
With a background in custom woodworking and general contracting, Kevin Molick founded a teardrop trailer company, nine years ago. After selling the business last year, he built a personal shop behind his home, where he continues to apply his craftsmanship to passion projects like this Spartan restoration. Through this journey, Molick has connected with a vibrant community of vintage trailer enthusiasts, continuing to refine and celebrate classic designs in new and innovative ways.
This 1951 Spartan Spartanette now stands as a masterful blend of vintage and modern craftsmanship, maintaining the Spartan’s original character while embracing thoughtful updates that will stand the test of time. It is currently offered for sale on the Vintage Camper Trailers website. A video of the trailer, more details, and Kevin’s contact information are in the ad.
