Kristian Campbell, a coach builder from Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire, England, always had a passion for craftsmanship. Together with his wife Emma, a nurse, and their two sons, Jared (13) and Kian-Sky (2), Kristian sought to create a trailer that would meet the needs of their growing family while traveling to national VW shows and enjoying holidays on the road.
The result was the Skyla trailer—a personal project that would not only serve as a functional space but also be a tribute to their late daughter, Skyla Louise Campbell, who was born still in 2011. The name Skyla was chosen as a meaningful way for her memory to live on.
Inspired by the Airstream and Bowlus-style trailers, Kristian designed the Skyla trailer to complement the vintage VW and hot-rod lifestyle. His love for retro style and unique design elements shaped the entire build.
Building from the Ground Up
Kristian’s journey with the Skyla trailer began in his 30 x 15 ft garage, where he dedicated evenings and weekends to the project. Working alone, with occasional help from his eldest son, Jared, Kristian meticulously crafted every detail of the trailer. From bending and forming the chassis to hand-cutting the aluminum skin, no detail was overlooked.
“Everything you see on the Skyla trailer has been built by me, from the ground up,” Kristian says. He built the trailer frame, installed the windows, added external lights, fully insulated the interior, and even made the curtains. The trailer was outfitted with essential utilities, including a Zig unit, water system, lights, and power options.
Vintage American Diner Meets Classic Style
The interior of the Skyla trailer is a nod to the American diner theme, evoking the vibrant spirit of the vintage era. The contrasting red leatherette upholstery, chrome trim, and checkered floor create a nostalgic ambiance. The blue and white star curtains were inspired by the American flag, and the trailer is equipped with all the comforts of home, including:
- A two-ring gas burner
- A 3-way fridge
- Stainless steel sink with tap and 45-litre fresh water tank
- Leisure battery-powered lights with remote control, color-changing and strobe features
- A sofa that converts into a double bed
- Ample storage behind glossy red doors and shelves
The trailer’s exterior is equally impressive, with a shiny aluminum shell lined with 2,300 precise rivets. The trailer boasts unique angles, curves, and a splash of red on the bumper and wheels. One of the standout features is the front door, which sets the Skyla trailer apart from others built during the same era.
Overcoming Setbacks and Celebrating the Journey
Despite some minor setbacks, Kristian is incredibly pleased with the final product. The Skyla trailer was recently completed and debuted at the “Dubfreeze” VW show in Staffordshire, where the family camped in comfort for the first time.
This year, Kristian plans to take the Skyla trailer on an exciting adventure to Turin, Italy, where his 1964 VW Panel Bus was originally from and served as a delivery van for much of its working life. With the addition of the Skyla trailer, the family can now travel across Europe with ease and comfort.
