I contacted 5 Caravan manufacturers as suggested, and asked them what I asked the forum:
Can anyone tell us why the backs of the seats have to be made up of 2 cushion rolls, (or more,) with one overhanging the other like the flab on a very obese persons gut? Also, why do the seats have a large roll along the front edge that cuts off circulation to one's legs and, if you've done a ham string at any time, tends to create an unpleasant numbing sensation to the back of one's thigh. Is there a reason why the back and seat cushioning can't be made in one piece and smooth, like those of a settee that we all have in our lounge rooms?
So far, one has replied. Roadstar said:
Hi, You can generally have the upholstery to suit your needs, and from what you are saying you can have it done. It sounds easier to make, but I do not think that it would be the preferred way. Regards .......... Design
Straight up back rests in caravan seating is hell on the back. My old van had loose cushions on seat and upright, and they moved all over the place and weren't very comfortable. I had them recovered with some nice upholstery fabric and that improved things slightly. It has a lot to do with the fabric used to cover the cushions/padding. The best deal is to get outside, sit on the comfy camp chair and go for a walk to check out the countryside you're parked in. That's what I want to be doing, but not right now.
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20ft Roma caravan - Mercedes Benz Sprinter - SA-based at the moment. Transport has no borders.
Management makes the decisions, but is not affected by the decisions it makes.
Even when I was young and fit the seating in my vans was uncomfortable. Even the folding chair from KMart felt better. It is a waste of time putting better closed cell rubber and covers onto a base designed by a carpenter. There are obvious reasons why caravan makers will not improve the set-up, which would require seating design and supply from a furniture maker.
The only solution is to choose the original lay-out and colours to suit pre-selected quality swivel chairs and fit them yourself (if the van maker cannot) after ensuring that the van maker leaves out its boxes. Housing apartments and offices have become smaller and the swivel chairs have shrunk to suit. Maybe someone has already 'legged it' and can recommend.
