Wednesday 27 August 2014

Classic Caravan Martinborough

The Classic Caravan in Martinborough

Just a little old caravan from outside. Like the caravans towed around by the small humpy cars in the 1950s; - usually in point of fact, being towed by Morris Minors more often than not. But the Classic Caravan in Martinborough needs to be experienced from the inside out, rather than the outside in! Like a Christmas package it may be a little rough round the edges and badly wrapped on the outer, but what a thrill when it opens up into something rather special on the inside. 

The first thing you will notice about this quirky little caravan is the beautiful colours. Whites complimented by a wonderful use of highlights make this haven just a  pleasure to be in. Stripes, turquoises, magentas and subtle patterns light up the space. 





The furniture in the caravan is a fascinating mishmosh of old and new, found and bought,with a collector's guiding eye leading the way. The Moroccan cabinet instantly draws the eye  but take a moment and you will start to see the care that has gone into the decoupage on the drawers and the lampshades, the attention to detail in turning the birdcage into a pristine display case for some of the treasures in the caravan; the cushions have been beautifully hand-made with glorious patterns and colours.


Yet above all these things the real highlight of the Classic Caravan is the amazing array of curiosities that have been assembled and are on display. From giant birds eggs to hand shaped soaps, from a butterfly collection to a skull on a chain ...      


The creation of a New Zealand recognized artist, Jane Kellahan, the Classic Caravan is small but perfectly formed. It is situated right in the heart of Martinborough,  and is a great place to stay.