RE: [A/S] Trailer Switch

["Oliver Filippi" <ofilippi@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hunter,

I have a '76 25' Tradewind with rear bath. I think the older (perhaps
ancient) floor plan in this size is much more practical than the current
floor plans.

The major mistake, in my opinion, is putting the stove and sink on the same
side as the entry door vs. opposite the door.  The older models with the
sink and stove opposite the door pick up about 15" or so since the forward
edge of the cabinet can be moved forward and does not have to end at the
door jamb - and thus doesn't have to push the bulkhead aft into the sleeping
area. The result is significantly more storage space and a roomier sleeping
and bath area, while still having an adequate cooking, eating and
entertaining area.

Although I am an avid fan (and owner) of a substantial amount of Mid Century
Modern furniture and accessories, I find the CCD models to be very cold and
not very cozy.  Kind of like living in a 50's diner.  I think the interior
designer could have done better. Good modernist design can be functional,
even minimalist and still provide a warm cozy atmosphere. (Frank Lloyd
Wright houses being a classic example) I think Mr. CCD failed to exploit
many of the new materials which did not exist in the 50's.  [For example,
polypropylene carpet, acrylic resin impregnated wood flooring, etc.] Cold,
dark blue-grey Breawood veneer could just as easily have been light "Birds's
Eye Maple", or "Cherry" Breawood. (Breawood is a man made, real wood,
composite veneer which utilized a unique manufacturing process to simulate
exotic woods from fast growing, sustainable woods. It is also available
prefinished on a phenolic backing, like Formica.) Frankly, I think Airstream
ought to investigate lighter materials for their interiors (but ones that
have a warmth and richness about them).

While my trailer was being serviced in Tucson at Oasis RV (highly
recommended) I looked at the new models as well as had an after dinner
social hour with another Airstreamer whose trailer was also being worked on.

This couple had a recent model 28 footer which was very nice. It had a side
bath and rear Queen size bed and a decent amount of storage. Yes, it had
more room than my 25'er, and my wife and I could go for the larger bed, but
I'm not so sure I would like to haul the extra length and weight around.

I suspect that much of your fondness for your 25 footer is similar to mine.

Oliver Filippi