What is a bespoke car?

Niels van Roij Design: The Modern Masters of Coachbuilding

Niels van Roij Design stands at the forefront of a modern coachbuilding revival, continuing the legacy of handcrafted, bespoke automotive design. Coachbuilding, a practice that flourished before World War II, allowed owners of luxury vehicles to commission custom bodies for their cars. In the golden age of automotive design, coachbuilders across the UK, Italy, France, Germany, The Netherlands, and Belgium crafted unique bodies for prestigious marques like Bugatti, Alfa Romeo, Bentley, Rolls-Royce, and Jaguar. Iconic vehicles such as the Duesenberg and Hispano Suiza were often sold as chassis alone, handed over to master artisans who would then design and build bodies to exact specifications.

However, with the rise of mass production and the advent of monocoque construction, the art of bespoke coachbuilding was eclipsed. Car manufacturers began producing cars in whole, with bodies integrated into the chassis for efficiency. Handmade, one-off coaches became a rare sight as factories prioritized streamlined production.

The Renaissance of Custom Coachbuilding

At Niels van Roij Design, we are reviving this lost art, offering discerning clients the opportunity to create the car of their dreams. Our bespoke approach allows patrons to experience the same thrill that collectors in the 1920s and 1930s enjoyed when commissioning their unique motorcars. Just as wealthy patrons once acquired a “rolling chassis” from the likes of Rolls-Royce, Bugatti, or Talbot-Lago, today you can partner with us to craft a modern masterpiece. From its very foundation—wheels, engine, and steering—we build a design around your exact preferences.

The Legacy of the Master Coachbuilders

Famous names such as Figoni et Falaschi, Saoutchik, Gangloff, Vignale, and Vanden Plas shaped the golden era of coachbuilding, creating timeless works of art on wheels. Though many of these historic houses no longer exist, their spirit lives on at Niels van Roij Design. We continue the tradition of collaboration between patron and artisan, designing unique vehicles that reflect the vision and personality of their owners. Whether you desire a sleek sports coupe, an extravagant grand tourer, or a reimagined luxury SUV, our team of experts will handcraft your motorcar with unparalleled precision.

Your Vision, Realized

At Niels van Roij Design, everything begins with your vision. From the moment you engage with our team, your dream car becomes our sole focus. Our skilled craftspeople will work with you to reimagine the exterior design, refine the interior details, and perfect every aspect of the vehicle’s functionality and aesthetics. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of a two-door coupe or the bold lines of a completely new body shape, we can design and build it. Choose from a range of premium materials, such as carbon fiber or handcrafted aluminum, and decide on the perfect finishes—from metallic paints to exquisite leather interiors.

Our workshops, located in The Netherlands, Belgium, and the United Kingdom, are equipped to deliver unparalleled craftsmanship. You will be part of every step of the process, with regular updates, photos, and videos to ensure that your car evolves exactly as you envision.

The Future of Bespoke Automotive Design

The revival of coachbuilding isn’t just about honoring tradition—it’s about redefining the future of luxury automotive design. Niels van Roij Design brings bespoke craftsmanship to modern supercars, high-performance vehicles, and luxury SUVs, offering clients the ultimate in personalization. In an era of mass production, owning a truly one-of-a-kind car is the ultimate expression of taste and individuality.

Whether you’re inspired by the golden age of motoring or looking to disrupt the conventional with a contemporary masterpiece, Niels van Roij Design is your gateway to a world where craftsmanship, passion, and innovation collide. Commission your dream car today, and experience the unmatched luxury of modern coachbuilding.