Henry II is more than a restored classic—it’s a bespoke coachbuilding triumph. Crafted over two and a half years by Niels van Roij Design, this 1981 Corniche shooting brake pays homage to its storied heritage while seamlessly integrating innovative features like a concealed electric bike carrier, designed for a passionate triathlete’s lifestyle.
In a world where bespoke craftsmanship stands as the ultimate expression of automotive artistry, Niels van Roij Design’s transformation of a cherished 1981 Rolls-Royce Corniche coupe into the Henry II shooting brake is a masterclass in understated luxury and timeless elegance. This one-of-one grand tourer represents not only a restoration but a refined evolution, perfectly harmonising heritage, innovation, and the bespoke needs of a modern, dynamic lifestyle.
A Car Steeped in History and Soul
The story begins with a Corniche lovingly owned by a single family for more than four decades, affectionately known as “Henry.” This classic coupe, emblematic of Rolls-Royce’s iconic blend of stately presence and sumptuous comfort, served as a personal emblem of status and grace since its first day.
Recognising its irreplaceable heritage, Niels van Roij Design embarked on a carefully considered journey to both restore Henry and reimagine it for new adventures. The result is Henry II, a shooting brake conceived not just as a car but as a bespoke statement of identity and passion.
From Coupe to Shooting Brake: A Transformation in Form
The transformation took nearly two and a half years and over 7,000 hours of meticulous craftsmanship, blending cutting-edge technology with the acumen of traditional artisanship. The task was as delicate as it was ambitious: to extend the Corniche’s body from the B-pillar rearwards, creating a new roofline, enlarged C-pillars, and a refreshed rear that retained all the original’s elegance but granted it fresh practicality.
Central to this reimagining is an ingenious, concealed, electric extending bike carrier, seamlessly integrated into the rear design. For the client, a passionate triathlete, the ability to transport two bicycles without disrupting the Corniche’s elegant proportions was paramount. The solution—a bespoke system housed within a hydraulically damped boot lid featuring bespoke glass and period-correct chrome detailing—speaks as much to function as it does to form.
The Art and Science of Bespoke Coachbuilding
Every contour of Henry II’s steel body was shaped by hand and laser-cut wooden bucks, ensuring a perfect balance of strength and fluidity. More than just engineering, this was an exercise in artistic respect, preserving the spirit of the original Mulliner Park Ward craftsmanship that crafted the Corniche’s tin layers and exquisite steel panels.
Niels van Roij’s philosophy centred on collaboration—designing with the client to create a personal masterpiece that honours legacy while meeting contemporary demands. A full 3D scan revealed subtle asymmetries in the original car’s body, a reminder of the Corniche’s storied life, which the team embraced and refined rather than erased.
Resolution of the design challenges, such as relocating the fuel tank to accommodate a fold-flat rear bench and integrating the bike carrier’s electrical systems, required precision engineering and elegant problem-solving—a hallmark of superior bespoke coachbuilding.
An Interior Rich with Memory and Luxury
Inside, Henry II embraces its heritage with restored wooden fascia panels painstakingly colour-matched to the original timber using lacquers and rare wood sourced specifically for this project. The interior reupholstery features a harmonious blend of fine beige leather, rich tweeds, and olive-green carpeting accented by lambswool mats—classic British luxury reborn with a contemporary twist.
Functional touches such as the custom centre stack housing a Brantz rally meter behind a wooden panel, a map pocket, and a softly illuminated map light remind us this car is ready for adventure as much as refinement. The owner’s love of historic rallies is woven into every detail, reinforcing Henry II’s grand touring ethos.
Legacy in Every Detail
From the precision-milled ‘H’ on matching bespoke luggage leather strips to the beautifully sculpted wood window surrounds, Henry II is a symphony of meticulous craftsmanship. It honours its past while confidently embracing its new role as a versatile yet utterly sumptuous grand tourer shooting brake.
The electrically operated rear bench seat and integrated bike cleaning kit are subtle yet profound indications of the design’s thoughtful attention to owner lifestyle.
Henry II transcends mere restoration; it is a living work of art. It is proof of how 21st-century coachbuilding melds tradition, technology, and personal expression into a vehicle that is as capable on the open road as it is stunning at rest.
For enthusiasts with the highest regard for heritage fused with innovation, Henry II is a captivating exemplar of bespoke motoring luxury.
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