Every great restoration seems to begin with a little heartbreak — and a lot of vision. After losing a beloved 19-foot Holiday House in a fire, the opportunity surfaced to purchase something even more unusual: a rare 24-foot, double-axle Holiday House. Larger, harder to find, and full of potential, it was exactly the kind of project that rewards patience and imagination.
When it arrived, it was clear this trailer had lived a very different life. Used for years as a hunting lodge, it wore its past plainly — bunk beds framed from 2x4s, plywood replacing windows and closet doors, missing fixtures, and an exterior door secured by an iron padlock bolted on for “security.” It wasn’t pretty, but underneath the wear sat solid bones and unmistakable mid-century charm.
Back to the Bare Bones
Once underway, the restoration began with what many vintage trailer owners know well — a full clean-out and reset. Bee nests, rodent debris, and years of neglect were cleared away before the creative work could even begin. From there, the trailer was taken down to its skeleton. Interior wall panels were beyond saving, and everything that could not be restored was carefully removed.
Rather than replicate the former trailer, this build became a fresh interpretation. Bamboo was selected for the interior walls and cabinetry, offering warmth, durability, and a sustainable twist on mid-century styling. The front dinette was refinished and reimagined with new bamboo plywood, while missing table hardware was thoughtfully sourced to preserve period authenticity.
Underneath, the stance was corrected with custom springs, wheels, and hubcaps fitted by Sacramento Spring, giving the trailer the height and stability it deserves. Before reinstalling the aluminum skins, one-inch Styrofoam insulation was added between the studs for improved comfort in varying climates.
A Clean, Modern Galley
The galley reflects a smart blend of vintage style and modern convenience. A marine-grade IsoTherm AC/DC refrigerator — designed for boats — was installed, making it ideal for the movement and angles of travel. Compact, efficient, and even capable of making its own ice, it fits beautifully into the footprint of a classic trailer.
Propane was intentionally left out of the equation. In its place: a storable induction cooktop and a drawer microwave that gives the look of a traditional oven front. This choice keeps the countertops clear and flexible, ready for a crockpot, air fryer, or coffee setup. An over-the-counter vent with lighting completes the streamlined, open feel.
Flexible Living, Thoughtful Layout
Vintage photos showed the trailer once housed a queen bed and dresser. Instead, this restoration opted for twin beds that double as lounge seating — perfect for hosting friends during rallies and offering easier nighttime access when needed.
The bathroom was completely rebuilt. The original fixtures were long gone, so a fresh layout was created with a private toilet room behind its own door and a separate sink set atop a custom cabinet featuring a creative skateboard-deck design element. A pocket door with small opaque windows allows light to pass through while maintaining privacy.
Notably, this trailer does not include a shower — and that’s entirely by design. For a trailer of this caliber, its owners prefer enjoying the comforts of well-appointed RV resort bathhouses rather than boondocking. The approach keeps the interior feeling open and refined. That said, the layout leaves room for a future wet bath conversion should a new owner want that flexibility.
Exterior Details & Finishing Touches
The distinctive curved front window was replaced with Lexan, and new Hehr-style window frames were fabricated to bring clarity and authenticity back to the façade. Replacement aluminum skins were sourced during a memorable trip to Hemet Valley RV, and the exterior was finished in a stunning blue that closely matches the original factory tone.
The completed trailer recently made its public debut at the Midnight Mass Car Show in Woodland — Northern California’s legendary summer hot rod gathering. Surrounded by chrome, neon, and classic steel, the Holiday House felt right at home. The reception from car enthusiasts and vintage trailer fans alike confirmed what the builders already knew: this is a special coach.
Ready for Its Next Chapter
With rallies on the calendar and a maiden voyage planned for Trailerfest in South Lake Tahoe, this rare double-axle Holiday House is poised for a season of memories.
Even more exciting? It is currently available for sale in the VCT Classifieds.
For someone seeking a standout vintage trailer with modern upgrades, flexible living space, and show-quality presence — without sacrificing the charm that makes Holiday House models so beloved — this one represents a rare opportunity.
Because sometimes, the best restorations aren’t just about bringing something back. They’re about building something even better for the road ahead.
