By Cheri Sicard
Vintage trailer fans got a real treat at the All American Vintage Trailer Rally in Brooks, Oregon. Bob and Jacyn (pronounced “Jason”) Gallagher, from Weiser, Idaho, brought in their custom-built 1950 Starkraft double-decker trailer.
It’s not just rare, it’s a rolling tribute to 1950s style, thanks to the creativity of the people involved and the inspiration taken from the original Lighthouse DuPlex two-story trailers. This unique camper dazzles with its retro lines, clever features, and handcrafted flair that make it stand out at any rally.
In the video at the end of this post, the team from BossaNova Life takes us on a tour.
The story behind the double-decker travel trailer build
Original Lighthouse DuPlex trailers from the 1950s measured a lengthy 35 feet and featured a true two-story design. When Jacyn and her husband, Bob, stumbled on one, it sparked a big idea: What if they could have a smaller, rally-friendly version? Friend and builder Brian Morrow brought that vision to life in 2015, building the Starkraft from scratch. The end result captures nostalgia while still being easy to take on the road. It’s proof that having creative friends can transform a wild dream into a real adventure.
The first thing anyone notices about this trailer is its bold shape and style inspired by mid-century modern design. The signature “swoopy swoops” metalwork on the wheel wells adds playful movement to the classic streamlined body. Metal artist Chris custom-made these for the Gallaghers’ trailer, giving it both flair and a personal story.
Little details bring this rig together. The “boomerang step” at the entrance (created by Bob) adds a touch of retro fun before you even step inside. The combination of creativity and personal touches shows how small things can make a big impact.
Stepping inside, the trailer continues the mid-century modern vibe. The exposed woodwork, angled lower cupboards, and striking wood ceiling beams set the tone. Every detail, from the angled cupboards to the sturdy V-leg table support, feels intentional—melding nostalgia and comfort.
Showstopper inside
Arguably, the real showstopper inside is the sparkling floor, aptly called the “Galaxy Floor.” Everywhere you look, stars embedded in the terrazzo seem to twinkle. As one rally visitor put it during a spirited tour, she flopped to the floor, exclaiming, “Oh, my gosh! This is so great!” The floor became an instant conversation starter, winning laughs and admiration.
Despite its compact size, the trailer’s kitchen feels spacious. There’s plenty of room for baking or simple camping meals. Overhead, the Gallaghers’ builder repurposed old lava lamps, transforming them into custom cabinets with flair. Practical and charming, they keep the old-school spirit alive.
Decor goes beyond store-bought
Decor in this trailer goes way beyond store-bought. Fabrics were custom-designed by Jacyn and produced by Spoonflower, and others were rubber-stamped with handmade patterns.
Past the kitchen, a comfy reading nook awaits, complete with a lamp and plush cushions.
Many vintage trailers skip a bathroom or tuck one in tight. Not here. This trailer features a spacious all-in-one stall, blending a shower, closet, and teak wood floor. The design is practical, with room for extra clothes and storage, making camping that much easier.
A working vintage refrigerator, custom-fitted beneath the stairs, and a Princess stove with an aluminum top keep the kitchen authentic. Found during vintage trailer rallies and refurbished with care, these appliances anchor the retro vibe while staying useful for every trip.
Upstairs: Double-decker trailer sleeping loft
A steep set of stairs leads up to a bright sleeping loft, fitted with a Queen-sized bed and sweeping views of the rally below. Dual windows provide a cross-breeze at night, making for restful sleep even in warm weather. The pink headboard and personal touches add to the feeling of a secret treehouse.
This trailer turns heads everywhere it goes. People at rallies and on the highway honk, wave, and snap photos. New friends find their way over, drawn by the character and uniqueness parked out front. Mid-century details make this build special: the warm wood, angled cupboards, sturdy V-leg tables, and exposed beams all echo the era.
The vintage Starkraft trailer’s transformation proves what’s possible when creative minds and talented friends come together. Every detail speaks of craftsmanship, love for vintage style, and the fun of rolling down memory lane.
Be sure to leave your thoughts on this unique custom-built RV in the comments below.
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RVDT2709
Beautiful workmanship!
Thank you, Cheri, for sharing the video and summarizing it. Sadly, my present cell signal is insufficient to play a video. Hopefully that changes in few days. Have a great day and safe travels!