Interior design trends for RVs are constantly changing. RV ownership has increased 62% in the last 20 years, and with every new group of owners, styles and tastes take on a new meaning. New technological advancements have resulted in changes in materials, creating lighter-weight RVs with easier-to-maintain and more durable components. RV users’ preferences have also changed as different things become important to them.
Meeting these demands is essential to attract customers and provide them with the amenities and aesthetics they need for their travels.
Trends in the RV industry are as varied and exciting as the RVs themselves. Traditional RVs were simplistic and focused on providing travelers with a place to sleep while on the road. Today, RVs can be anything from basic accommodation to luxury homes on wheels, complete with all the fittings. Contemporary aesthetics has a marked influence on RV living, with many travelers seeking the “home away from home” feel.
RV design encompasses challenges like safety measures and space considerations, and designers constantly work with specialist vendors to source the right materials. Alongside all the technological advancements of modern RV design, interiors have become more luxurious, boasting high-end fabrics and materials in various pallets to suit every traveler. In recent years, RV interiors have had a minimalistic and modern feel, though that may change in the coming years.
Consumers want an RV that reflects their unique style. They also want refreshing designs with a timeless feel, giving them longevity so fittings and upholstery don’t become outdated too quickly. Some of today’s RV interior design trends include:
Like many homes, the kitchen is the centerpiece of an RV. RV kitchen design trends feature the color palette as a fantastic opportunity for RV owners to let their personalities come through. They’re looking for more vibrant colors and plush textures that evoke a sense of comfort and style.
Work-from-home trends are on the rise, and 22 million people are working from home full-time as of 2023. As more people have the freedom to work while on the road, RV kitchens are also functional spaces that can be used for taking video calls and getting work done.
As we move away from minimalistic and monochrome design, RV owners are looking for texture variations that create depth and spark interest. Visible wood is a warm and dynamic addition, and the weave of the fabric on the furniture contributes to each area’s tactile design. Trends toward different textures and finishes make RV spaces more dynamic and inviting.
Textiles and other surfaces must also be functional, giving a residential look and feel while being easy to clean and durable. A clever blend of visual appeal and functionality is a definite trend in RV design.
The trend of having extra space is becoming increasingly popular as more people work from home. They want to connect with nature while working and enjoying other aspects of their lives. Many of these spaces feature functional elements, like offices, classrooms, and workout spaces. However, the desire to enjoy the outdoors underpins every element of their design. These bright and functional areas give users extra usability from their RVs. Many also offer easy access to nature, allowing users to step outside into the fresh air.
Much of an RV’s appeal lies in the ability to explore the outdoors, and trends toward bringing the outside world in are on the rise. Patios, larger windows and functional outdoor kitchens give users multiple opportunities to connect with nature and bask in the freedom an RV brings.
In line with their rustic focus, these spaces often favor neutral or natural tones, light-colored walls and natural fibers for a lived-in look. We’re seeing more natural elements incorporated into modern RV design, like stone, wood and organic textures. The underlying goal is to meld the indoor and outdoor experience, achieving a seamless transition from one to the other.
Maximizing space is a common challenge in RV design, and the size of livable space is a critical factor for people looking to purchase an RV. Clever interior design can transform a space, and trends toward arches, curves, linear details and textures that add depth are likely to continue.
These trends also focus on smart and efficient storage solutions, from multifunctional furniture to hidden compartments. The design must allow users to make the most of every inch of their space, providing flexibility without compromising comfort.
The shift toward sustainability is driving many RV design ideas. According to a study conducted by McKinsey and NielsenIQ, a massive 78% of consumers in the United States say that a sustainable lifestyle is important to them, and RV design must meet these requirements while maintaining a connection with nature. RV designers and manufacturers are already looking for innovative ways to reduce the environmental impact of RV production, including the use of sustainable materials and shifting to electric vehicles.
Many manufacturers are integrating sustainable practices from the design phase, collaborating with like-minded partners and organizations to repurpose, recycle and upcycle RV fabrics and other interior design elements. For example, Swavelle Group has eliminated the use of poly-fluoroalkyl chemicals previously used in coatings and finishes.
In consciously designing for a sustainable future, RV designers are incorporating upcycled, recycled and natural yarns for RV interiors. These biodegradable or recyclable fabrics come from environmentally friendly resources and aim to reduce landfill buildup and other negative effects on the planet.
RV fabrics must be more than aesthetically appealing. They have to withstand the rigors of travel, inclement weather and regular use. They should also be stain- and water-resistant and easy to clean to fulfill consumer desires for simple and attractive travel.
Many fabrics undergo extensive hydrolysis and wear testing before being declared suitable for RV applications, minimizing degradation and decomposition and providing additional longevity. Polyurethane fabrics are particularly popular in RVs due to their longevity and easy cleaning. The challenge for designers is to provide these benefits while maintaining the feelings of comfort and home that users expect.
High-performance fabrics provide the following benefits:
An RV’s interior should encapsulate the “home away from home” feel and keep users comfortable no matter the season. As consumer demands change, RV design must rise to meet these trends. Swavelle Group is at the forefront of RV design, redefining the possibilities with one of the most diverse selections of quality textiles for RV interiors for various budgets and applications.
We’ve delivered innovative solutions to RV industry leaders since 1971. Our experienced design team will work with you to create unique spaces that appeal to the next generation of RV consumers, helping you realize your vision and stay within your budget. Ready to get started? Contact us to learn more about designing the perfect RV interior today!
