Custom Camper Van Blends a Stunning All-Wood Interior With Ultra-Functional Features

Patrick's latest project is a camper van based on a 2004 T1N Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, which he describes as having "the most bulletproof chassis you can get." He transformed it inside and out – let's see what it's about.

The first thing you'll notice is the bright paint, which is, in fact, exterior house paint. Moreover, Patrick installed climbing holds instead of a ladder to get on the roof. That's where you'll find an enormous roof deck. However, this rig doesn't come with solar panels, but there's plenty of space to fit some if the owners wish to.

Step inside, and you'll discover a beautifully crafted interior made mostly out of wood. It offers a cozy, rustic feel, especially when paired with subtle and calming lighting. The flooring is made of vinyl Lifeproof panels, while the ceiling features mostly cedar wood.

One thing to consider when buying a camper is the equipment the base vehicle comes with. Of course, newer rigs come with improved technology that makes driving easier and, more importantly, safer. In this case, a 2004 Sprinter's technology will significantly differ from a 2023 model, but you can still create a fantastic camper out of it.

Starting off from the driver's cabin, Patrick made some minor changes. He added an upgraded radio and speakers, a passenger swivel seat, and a backup camera that also works as a dashcam. One thing I have seen on many other rigs that he could've integrated was an overhead storage compartment. Indeed, that decreases the headspace available, but you won't be standing up in the driver's cabin anyway.

Dead ahead from the main door, you'll discover the seating area, which is a bit higher compared to the van's floor. It features two spacious benches with a dinette table in between. Under the one near the driver's seat, you'll discover an Anker portable power station with a shore power connection behind it.

Most van dwellers install complex electrical systems, typically with Vectron components. Having this type of solution makes things easier as you basically have all the parts into one package, although, as Patrick says, you need to make some adjustments to the wattages, especially if you have multiple features that are fed with power.

The other bench hides a Cubby composting toilet, as well as a tiny drawer. You won't get any privacy when using it, which isn't an issue if you travel by yourself.

On the seating area's wall, Patrick devised a small window and two nooks for extra shoulder space. To be frank, I feel like most people would prefer a larger window instead of these nooks. However, I can't tell how much of a difference these nooks make as I haven't sat on the benches there, so their addition may be justified.

Because the bench area sits higher up, it leaves room for extra storage underneath its floor. But here's what I really like about this bench setup: you can remove the floor, put the wooden panel on slats, and essentially create a really long bench – it's little details like these that give camper vans the extra edge.

On the opposite side, in the doorway, you'll find two light panels for the van's main lights and accent lights. There's also a grab handle with kind of an industrial look made out of a pipe. Right underneath it, Patrick added a rotating pole to which you can attach a small table. It's perfectly located for the passenger to use it, but it can also be rotated outside the van.

Part of the entrance is occupied by yet another table, which comes with a charging station nearby. Under it, you'll find two small drawers and a water tank.

Next up, we have the kitchen, located on the passenger side of the van. It features a deep sink, an oven with a three-burner stove, various storage compartments in the form of drawers, and a refrigerator box on a free slider. That means you can move it wherever you want – you can even use it as a seat. For extra counter space, there are two flip-up tables you can use.

If you look above, you'll notice a long window complete with a window sill, two tiny shelves, and a small medicine cabinet.

On the other side, Patrick fitted a large closet, a couple of drawers, a shoe rack, and what he calls "the coffee nook." It features a 120 V plug, two USB plugs, and some extra storage compartments, both above and below.

And lastly, the final part of the living space is the bedroom. This is where the van's styling really shines – you'll notice the divider wall between the bedroom and the rest of the areas comes with a striking carved design that resembles the shape of a tree. In fact, the entire design of the van is based on this dividing wall. Another distinctive touch is the bedroom's custom ceiling – it boasts a basket weave look and comes with tiny lights.

There are three drawers underneath the bed, the last of which also serves as a step to get into the bed. The mattress is 6 x 4 feet (183 x 122 centimeters) large, and there's some extra space at both the front and rear of the bed offered by nooks. You'll also find charging stations on both corners, a phone holder, two fans, and two reading lights.

This camper's garage is accessible from the rear by opening the two doors. While there are many storage compartments in the living area, they're all relatively tiny. So, if you need to fit bulkier items, the massive garage is your best bet.

The garage is divided into two parts. One runs deep under the camper's bed, and it holds a propane box and a diesel heater. The other one prioritizes height rather than depth, so it's the perfect spot to store skis, snowboards, or other longer items. I feel like this space could've been perfect for a shower, perhaps if it was a tad bigger.

One feature worth mentioning is a table that can be fixed at the rear of the van – this way, you can sit on your bed and eat or work on your laptop while enjoying the view.

All in all, even though it isn't fitted with crazy high-tech features, this camper is an excellent tiny home on wheels with an aesthetically pleasing yet practical design.