Designing the specification for your van conversion is one of the most exciting parts of the journey. Whether you're taking on the project yourself or commissioning a professional build, making smart decisions early-on will shape everything from your day-to-day comfort to how far off-grid you can go. In this guide, we’ll walk through the key considerations for designing your layout, choosing your spec, and bringing your style to life.
Layouts:
When it comes to van layouts, there are two primary directions we typically design around: dinette layouts and fixed bed layouts. Each has its own advantages depending on your lifestyle and priorities.
Dinette Layout:
A dinette layout features a convertible seating area, usually at the rear of the van, that transforms into a bed at night. The biggest benefit is how sociable and open it feels. It makes great use of the full length of the van for daytime living, allowing you to walk through the space freely. The table area is perfect for socialising, such as playing cards, or working remotely where it can become your day-time office. You also benefit from multiple sightlines through the van, with potential for windows on both sides and at the back.
However, storage can be more limited. The electrical system and bedding often needs to live in the bench seats, which takes up valuable room that could otherwise hold adventure gear. Making the bed each night can also be a minor inconvenience if you're living in the van full time.
Fixed Bed Layout:
On the other hand, a fixed bed layout offers unmatched convenience. You don’t have to rearrange anything in the evening - your bed is always ready to go. More importantly, it allows for a generous "garage" space underneath the bed, which is ideal for storing large items like bikes or bulky gear. We've even had clients install folding e-bikes with charging sockets underneath.
Regardless of whether the bed is a dinette style or fixed, we always design our conversions with the bed at the back of the van. This way, you can maximise views from the expansive dual opening of the back doors, as well as from the sliding door - which we believe is one of the van's best assets.
Layout Tips:
We recommend that you don’t try to reinvent the wheel. There are thousands of tried-and-tested van layouts available online. Search Instagram or Pinterest for “van conversion layout” and start with something that already works, then tweak it to match your needs.
To test layouts, use digital tools like SketchUp or Vanspace 3D, which lets you drop in pre-made units to visualise your space. Alternatively, draw your layout to scale on graph paper. No matter how you do it, make sure it's all to scale - it's easy to think everything fits until you measure properly.
Your Spec:
Your van spec includes everything from electrical systems and insulation to furniture and soft furnishings. It’s a wide-ranging list, and the cost can vary massively depending on the choices you make.
Here’s what goes into a typical spec:
- Exterior features
- Cab area
- Insulation and wall/ceiling linings
- Electrical system (batteries, solar, inverter)
- Water system (fresh and grey water tanks, pump, heater)
- Gas system (if applicable)
- Furniture
- Soft furnishings
- Certification and safety elements
Some components, like heating, solar, and large lithium battery setups, can push material costs way into the tens of thousands, especially in high-spec builds. If you’re building your own, start with a professional specification list. These are tried, tested, and use reputable brands. We too share our own model specs on our website, which you can use and adjust to suit your needs.
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Safety and Compliance:
If you're adding belted seats, get expert advice. These need to be anchored properly with the correct spreader plates and fixed under the chassis. Ventilation is another essential feature. Aim for both high-level (e.g., roof fans) and low-level ventilation (such as drop vents for gas lockers). Proper airflow helps prevent condensation and keeps your van safe.
Appliances, especially gas and electrics, should be professionally installed and certified. Use reputable brands and work with experts. For example, we partner with Tiny Build Electrics for small-space electrical setups. For general vanlife consultancy, The Road Two Spoons offer advice based on their years of full-time van living experience.
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Electrical Systems: Lithium vs. AGM:
A common question we get is about batteries. AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are cheaper but heavier and less efficient - you can only discharge them to 50% before risking damage. Lithium batteries are lighter, last longer, and let you use more of their capacity. While lithium costs more upfront, prices have come down recently and the long-term value is much higher. We use Roamer lithium batteries and highly recommend them.
If you’re going gasless, for example, using induction cooking and diesel heating, your electrical demands will be higher. You’ll need a larger battery and inverter, which again increases cost. In this case, we often recommend boosting alternator charging (so your battery charges while driving) and increasing solar capacity to make up for the reduced winter sunlight.
Style:
The style of your conversion is what turns a vehicle into a home. Whether you're after something rustic, modern, or Scandi-inspired, the best place to start is with a moodboard. We use Canva to gather inspiration - pull in your favourite colour palettes, textures, tiles, fixtures, and soft furnishings to see how they all work together.
Try not to rush this step. The materials you choose will define the atmosphere inside your van, and it’s far easier to make changes digitally than halfway through a build.
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Designing your van spec is a big process, but it doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Start with proven layouts and specifications, understand your energy needs, and take your time planning the look and feel. Whether you’re building your own dream conversion or working with a professional, a well-thought-out spec is the foundation of a van that’s comfortable, practical, and uniquely yours. For more expert advice, email us at oli@vanlifeconversions.co.uk
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