Many RV manufacturers choose standard white for the design of their RVs: a typical, safe choice. And why not? However, as Jorrit Scheepers, Design Co-creator at Euramax, points out, there are many reasons to choose something else. Here, he introduces you to the world beyond standard white – and dares you to consider a broader colour palette.
Many RV manufacturers choose standard white for the design of their RVs: a typical, safe choice. And why not? However, as Jorrit Scheepers, Design Co-creator at Euramax, points out, there are many reasons to choose something else. Here, he introduces you to the world beyond standard white – and dares you to consider a broader colour palette.
‘White has been a popular option for RV design for years, as it reflects sunlight rather than absorbing it. Moreover, it is a timeless look, which means your RV will retain its resale value’, says Jorrit, Design Co-creator at Euramax. Euramax is the world’s leading producer of coated aluminium for the mobility sector and the architecture industry.
Previously, Jorrit only focused on the architectural applications of aluminium. Today, he also supports RV designers and manufacturers. His aim is to apply what he has learnt to the world of RV design, enriching it and helping to create vehicles that are as iconic as the buildings he has contributed to, such as Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, the Royal Christiania Hotel in Oslo and Isala Hospital in Meppel, the Netherlands.
‘I think we can safely speak of individualisation: consumers want something unique and new target groups are emerging. With customised colours and coatings, you can tailor your RV design to match the tastes and preferences of your target segment, adding significant value to the intended design at relatively low cost. A very interesting option.’
‘Even within the white colour range, there are many options,’ Jorrit continues. ‘Euramax offers a spectrum of nuanced shades to work with, a great way to subtly deviate from standard white. With the range of whites we offer, we can help bring the trending, off-white colours to campers and caravans.’
Jorrit believes that there is a lot of untapped potential in colour use for RVs: ‘The diversity of colour we see in car design can easily be applied to RV design. In addition to the various shades of off-white, Euramax’ customer approach encompasses countless colour options. We can develop colours based on the RAL or NCS colour standards. Metallics are another possibility, besides the usual solid colours. We can make a design even more distinctive by adding striping and patterns. In short, we have everything a designer might need to appeal to new target segments. After all, standard white is just… standard.’
‘Another way to stand out is by combining colours’, Jorrit says. ‘For example, you can combine a bright colour with a shade of white. By doing so, you create a contrast that helps the vehicle stand out and gives it its own personality. Think of the famous two-coloured Volkswagen vans or Mini Cooper cars. It doesn’t get much more iconic than that!’ Jorrit seems determined: you can make one, powerful statement by combining two colours.
The potential that lies beyond standard white is undisputed, in Jorrit’s view. ‘I’m challenging everyone to think out of the box and consider the many possibilities to make the RV landscape more progressive’, he adds. ‘Compare it to how the camping industry was enriched by the introduction of glamping. The RV industry, too, can evolve and attract new generations of RV users.’
Jorrit believes that he and his colleagues can help the industry to expand into new areas: ‘At Euramax, we have a customised solution for every RV design. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions, since no two projects are ever the same. We listen carefully to the client, make a real connection and craft creative responses to each unique challenge. It’s this approach that helps us build lasting relationships and deliver truly exceptional results.’ The wide range of possibilities – and staggering results – become clear when Jorrit reflects on the work that Euramax for Architectural Envelopes has done on Isala Hospital in Meppel: ‘When we showed the architects the possibilities offered by our coil coating, they reconsidered their vision and chose two custom colours for their project. In the end, the building won the MDG Architecture Prize.'
A rich colour palette seems to be the answer for those calling for a way to give their RVs a truly unique character. Nonetheless, it doesn’t mean you need to resort to bold colour combinations or harsh contrasts. Subtle shades or a well-chosen colour combination can give your vehicles a unique identity – making it easier for future owners to spot their RV in a crowded car park or campsite. And to say, with pride: ‘That one’s mine!’
Are we not on your side yet? We would love to discover in a non‑committal, personal conversation how we can shape our partnership plus. One thing is for sure: with us on your side, you are never alone.