'We wanted a GETAWAY HOME'

Buying a faded, tired caravan and transforming it with a cheerful retro vibe has given Jilly the ideal spot to relax

-  ALISON GIBB

We bought the caravan as a treat while I was recovering from an operation,’ says Jilly, ‘and it was such a positive focus. It kept me entertained while I was recovering, as I researched on my iPad how to decorate the interior.

‘From my hospital bed it felt like a fantasy – a bit of fun – but over the following year it slowly became more of a reality. I started by tracing the interior from photographs and adding colour and patterned wallpaper digitally.

Making it homely

David began by gutting the caravan on our driveway. He replaced the roof light and repaired all the windows, as well as raising and re-laying the floor to create space for new pipework, and removing all the rust from the wheels. He was able to salvage the original sink, oven, hob and fridge, which were in surprisingly good condition. I think a lot of caravanners probably eat out if they can and just make salads and sandwiches in the van, so the appliances were relatively unscathed.

Getting cosy