LAYOUT & DESIGN
STEP 2
CHOOSING A LAYOUT
Choosing your van layout is one of the most exciting parts of the process and it’s of the upmost importance. It’s critical to spend time mapping out your layout while being precise with your measurements BEFORE you begin the build. Take your time during this phase as this is the time you can change your mind and try out different layouts and envision how it would feel to live in. But once you start the build, changing the layout last minute is a big no-no. Placement & multi-functionality is everything when living tiny so it’s imperative you get this just right before build begins. Read the factors to consider before starting the design process so that you can hone in on the layout best suited for your needs to get the most out of your tiny home on wheels.
NUMBER OF TRAVELERS: How many people will be sleeping in the van? There are many ways to structure the bed set up to fit up to a family of four comfortably!
STORAGE: You’ll need to examine how much you plan on bringing. The main thing to consider here is if you need a big “garage” to store large equipment such as bicycles, snowboards etc. If you go this route you’ll need a fixed bed. If you want a breakdown bed and don’t want the garage but still want to bring your bike or surfboard you can install exterior racks to hold your equipment to save room inside the van.
KITCHEN: What would you like to cook on? Are you comfortable with propane or do you prefer all electric? Would you like to cook inside the van or outside? Think about what is the minimum amount of kitchen appliances you need to comfortable get by while enjoying daily cooking.
BATHROOM: Are you planning on having a bathroom inside the van, if so are you okay with just a toilet or do you also need a shower? Does your showing need to be indoors or will you be in warm climates suggesting an outdoor shower? This leads to the question, how big would you like your water tank to be? The bigger the tank the longer you can go without having to find a place to fill up. Keeping in mind, the bigger the tank the more space it will take up. We have 37 gallon water tank and find it can last us 10+ days without refilling (we also only shower once to twice a week).
WORKSPACE: If you plan on working full time while living on the road, it’s important to have a comfortable and easily accessible work station. In reality, you won’t want to do a lot of work to get your work setup ready, so make sure it’s easy enough to setup so you won’t dread doing it every morning.
WINDOWS: It’s important to think about how many windows you would like in your van, how much natural light you’d like to have as well as how stealthy you’d like to be. The more windows also means worse insulation, so if you are in extremely cold temps maybe cut back on a few windows to help keep the van warm.
MUST HAVES: The best part of the design process is taking time to think about what’s uniquely important to you. Do you have a particular style you’d like to get across? Are you a book lover and must have a book shelf? Do you need a full length mirror etc?
But first, if you already know you want to design your van with a similar layout to ours, be sure to check out our ‘Van Layout & Dimensions’ Guide.
We’ve curated a list of common layouts that focus on specific lifestyle needs below. Designing your van layout is extremely personal so these layouts are not a one size fits all and are more a starting point for inspiration. Be sure to go through each factor listed above and write down the answers that relate to your specific needs BEFORE designing. Last thing we’d like you to keep in mind when designing is weight distribution. Be sure the weight of your van is fairly distributed when placing heavier items such as water tanks, showers, ovens, cabinets, etc.
*Once you’ve narrowed down to your favorite layout, go on YouTube and find videos with that layout to help you better visualize what it’s like living in it. We did this when choosing our design and it was a great source!
FIXED BED PLATFORM
This layout is known for being the most “gear-friendly”. If you are big into mountain biking, rock climbing, backpacking then a fixed bed is for you. This will offer the most amount of open storage space. There are many different layouts with a fixed bed.
Factors to consider with this layout:
You will need to go outside to access the “garage” space.
CONVERTIBLE BED/DINETTE
This is similar to the layout we went with. Not needing the big garage space, this style offers multi-functional use to create a large dining or work space area. This layout can be raised or flush with the floor.
Factors to consider with this layout:
Multi-functionality to offer a large dining table or work space
EXPANDABLE BED/COUCH
This layout features a lengthwise bed with your size of choice. When done properly, it’s an easy “pull-out” transition from couch mode to bed mode. The unique feature of this layout is the open floor down the isle throughout the whole van.
Factors to consider with this layout:
When in bed mode, the space can tend to feel cramped in
FAMILY OF FOUR
Here are two different layouts to fit a family of four, including a convertible bed/dinette layout and a fixed bed layout.
Factors to consider with these layouts:
Where will you be traveling with your family of four, warmer or colder climates. If you plan on being in the cold and would like a cozy place for everyone to comfortably have dinner then the dinette option may be for you as with the fixed bed layout, meals would most likely be outside.
WANT US TO DESIGN YOUR VAN?
Nervous about getting your layout just right and would like to save yourself time and stress? We offer custom design layout services based on your lifestyle, specific needs and taste. Click the link below to fill out the inquiry form to set up a consultation for your full van layout and design.
This service covers everything in the design process from layout consultations to 3D renderings with precise measurements which provide clear instructions for a smooth and efficient build.