It's Time to Remodel the Van...

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  • Опубликовано: 30 янв 2025

Комментарии • 229

  • @808MANAKAI
    @808MANAKAI 5 лет назад +9

    Hey Buddy, I started my Van Life in 1973, I bought a 1959 VW Panel Van. I was 16 and loved the “Freedom” Life. I’m Now 62 and I love the Freedom Life, ( In a 2019 NV200 SV) In Hawai’i. Now, I’ve Remodeled Houses and Condos along the way, But, I just Love the Feeling of being Open. Anyways, My Point is your doing a great Job and you truly love fixing and changing things and you inspire People. Last, Everyone of my Friends in the 70’s thought I was Nuts, living in my Van. Now all my friends say “I wish I Had your Life” Keep Inspiring People. 🌴🤙🏼🌴

  • @jesussamurai8433
    @jesussamurai8433 5 лет назад +54

    Swivel seats. Opens up the space a bit, extra comfort, extra sitting room. They are very multi purpose.

  • @TheDanVan
    @TheDanVan 5 лет назад +32

    I always say, your van teaches you how to live in it.

    • @loveitloveit122
      @loveitloveit122 5 лет назад +2

      soooooo true, love your quote🤗👍 I'm always re doing mine, to make it 'work' for your needs, after awhile you need things to be efficient 😁

  • @markconger8049
    @markconger8049 5 лет назад +3

    Nate - what makes your channel great is seeing your willingness to change and adapt. Bob Wells (Cheap RV Living) advocates this all the time. Get something in place, try it, change what doesn't work, rinse and repeat. Otherwise you'll spend forever in the analysis paralysis prison!

    • @24ZEN
      @24ZEN 5 лет назад +1

      Mark Conger I agree. Chrome from vancityvanlife encourages the same. I have a foamy on the floor while I figure out how I use the space.

    • @taradead
      @taradead 5 лет назад

      @@24ZEN "foamy on the floor" will motivate you to change real quick. I started out with that...and it was an organizational disaster.

    • @24ZEN
      @24ZEN 5 лет назад

      tarasdead It absolutely can be! 😂 Thankfully I have stow and go storage and a minimalist outlook. I am designing a modular system so it can be taken out easily. Right now I am grateful there is a place for me to rest after exploring or to get out of the sun. How long have you been vanlifin' it?

    • @24ZEN
      @24ZEN 5 лет назад

      Oh and I am not full time yet.😂🙊🍻

    • @taradead
      @taradead 5 лет назад

      @@24ZEN I only take mine out for short 3-4 day trips. Full-time would be a major hassle with mail (registration, drivers license, etc), bathing, parking, water, bad weather...plus, I think the novelty would grow old real quick.

  • @BlueVanDan
    @BlueVanDan 5 лет назад +19

    I have plenty of room, along with tools, power etc. If you need it...

    • @janicehart5397
      @janicehart5397 5 лет назад +6

      Nice of you to offer your help, Dan.

  • @thizizliz
    @thizizliz 5 лет назад +18

    Sounds like a lot of great ideas. I'm looking forward to your results.

  • @sswwooppee
    @sswwooppee 5 лет назад +8

    For a van that size with the pop top, the old timey, VW bus layout is tough to beat for keeping the space versatile.

    • @rayfletcher3683
      @rayfletcher3683 5 лет назад +1

      Absolutely agree , that basic plan can not be improved on! The table and swivel seats work extremely well . Have spent months at a time with 2 people and never felt crowded. Have also had a40 foot class A which was no where near as enjoyable. Still find that hard to believe myself!

  • @MrMinimalst
    @MrMinimalst 5 лет назад +3

    I was laughing aloud at you showing the pain of watching videos in bed, and then again when you displayed your discomfort being crammed in the corner in your travel chair! Looking forward to your new build Nate. Have a good weekend!

  • @CrystalVanner
    @CrystalVanner 5 лет назад

    *I'm excited to see it come together. Looks like it'll be a great set up. I'm in the process of "building" out my new to me van myself. Thanks for sharing with us!*

  • @markconger8049
    @markconger8049 5 лет назад +3

    While you have a carpenter shop at your disposal, perhaps make your cabinet top have an additional piece of plywood under it that slides out like a drawer. This would give you an adhoc desk or additional counter space. Still do your free standing table too but have the option of the slide out one. Versatility and compactness for sure.

  • @quirkyclarke6423
    @quirkyclarke6423 5 лет назад +2

    Im excited for the new setup and the videos documenting it! Change is always fun.

  • @ZEVONLIN
    @ZEVONLIN 5 лет назад +10

    IF you can put up with some heat! i am about 90 miles from your current local and you can use my tools power and driveway.

  • @gpgopher265
    @gpgopher265 5 лет назад +1

    My friend, I have a tri-fold twin mattress in my nv200. Enough for 2 extra people to sit in and gives you enough leg room when you aren't sprawled out.
    I also have it facing the back doors for the views when we park somewhere. That might be a great option to go with

    • @SuperDeut4
      @SuperDeut4 5 лет назад

      Eddie Hearns' Tears Sounds intersting, really.

  • @jeremysomeone
    @jeremysomeone 5 лет назад +9

    Swivel seat bases dude. They will change your life. Yes, they’re not perfect for city dwelling, but you’re not always in the city, and window tint helps with that!

    • @carlaifera5254
      @carlaifera5254 5 лет назад

      ......yeah,......got my swivel from the base of a seventies swivel rocker.......free!.......'tour' some of those used furniture stores......just sayin'.......🙂

  • @SuperDeut4
    @SuperDeut4 5 лет назад +1

    Awesome. No offense, but I always thought it was rather cramped and limited. So happy you are going to renovate. You will be able to enjoy the hightop space now. With a swivel..... heaven!!!!!!

  • @Cornishvandweller
    @Cornishvandweller 5 лет назад

    Yep - your planned layout is exactly what I've gone for in my (smaller: shorter, no pop-top) Citroen Berlingo. I actually have unused storage space in it with that design! The knack is to get the under-bed storage as useable (i.e. easily accessible) as possible. My under-bed storage is half empty simply because I have very little stuff that I only need to get at occasionally and that I would sensibly stick under the bed.

  • @BikeTall
    @BikeTall 5 лет назад

    Definitely swivel seat. Comfortable & saves space. Also gives extra seating for when you’ve got guests. Your new bed/couch is great idea. Much better than your current Murphy bed set up. Good luck with the build!

  • @graceiovine3080
    @graceiovine3080 5 лет назад

    I’m excited for you...I can’t wait to see it complete! 🚐

  • @doofdoofsf
    @doofdoofsf 5 лет назад +3

    Good luck. Looking forward to seeing the remodel.

  • @janicehart5397
    @janicehart5397 5 лет назад

    I am so happy that Ron is helping you. I remember his van, and it was so well built and he really utilized all the interior space in it. I cannot wait to see your new interior. I'm sure you will be happier with it. Robin from Creativity RV began with a Murphy bed also, and she came to discover it wasn't all that easy to keep having to put it up and down and traded it in for something better. Safe travels, Nate.

  • @californiadreamin9212
    @californiadreamin9212 5 лет назад

    Can’t wait to see the rebuild. Safe travels!!!

  • @jerrycaughron7378
    @jerrycaughron7378 5 лет назад +4

    I can't wait to see the new design! Good luck!

  • @melvinbarrier1902
    @melvinbarrier1902 5 лет назад +1

    Can’t wait to see what you do. Ron does have very nice build in his van. Between the two of you I think you’ll have a very useable van.

  • @bradfordleroy3527
    @bradfordleroy3527 5 лет назад

    His luck buddy, you will make it work. From watching your there Element series, I knew you would be changing what you built. Not that your idea was bad, just not completely functional. You toured so many awesome vans, and there are thousands of great RUclips builds to learn from. Don't rush this time, seek more help, look heard at the big picture. You can give yourself loads of storage living space. You inspired me to purchase an Element, Ana next month I'll be starting my build. Planning is everything.

  • @jordanelias9156
    @jordanelias9156 5 лет назад +2

    You must have slats/holes under the mattress or you will end up with condensation & mold.
    Also not sure why you need two beds? Just use the one up top to sleep on and make the back area set up for eating and having friends over.

  • @garrycole9187
    @garrycole9187 5 лет назад

    Very smart to use sketch it and a very good tool to master Nate. I used it to visualize my backyard and it works very well. Smart to use Ron, I follow him and he is very skill, has all the tools, and is very experienced, innovative, and creative. Should also consider using a sliding desk top at the cabinet that you can slide out and sit on your sofa and work.

  • @randywilson6869
    @randywilson6869 5 лет назад

    Could u cut the side window panel out and build a box/cabnat that sticks out a foot

  • @eugottabekiddin3772
    @eugottabekiddin3772 5 лет назад +1

    Gosh... Has it really been 3 months already? Wow. Great new vision for the van. Ron will be an awesome partner for the makeover

  • @singh5004
    @singh5004 5 лет назад +7

    Told you right at the start that Murphy bed was a bad idea in a van this size, you were not saving space but actually loosing it.
    Good it finally dawned on you 🙏

    • @markconger8049
      @markconger8049 5 лет назад

      For Nate, I think you're right. But for someone who travels and needs to sleep in there regularly, but otherwise doesn't live in it - it's a great way to be comfortable.

  • @lennyp4782
    @lennyp4782 5 лет назад

    Its good to see you in expand mode again. hope you stay in that mode til youre comfortable. nothing wrong with that. please keep us posted.P.S, for netflix viewing on the phone i got a phone "arm" from a friend that she in turn got from ebay. its a flexible, long material with a phone houser gripper on the tip of it. it also has a light on the back of the grip for either night lighting or reading, {its surprinsingly bright}. she got it for like 20 bucks and its the best hands free product ive seen anywhere.

  • @gerardpritchard657
    @gerardpritchard657 5 лет назад +7

    Looking forward to seeing what you come up with! Good luck 👍

  • @jbrat1967
    @jbrat1967 5 лет назад +4

    Smart move. It’s part of the game. Relax mode is an important component to living well

  • @noras.5355
    @noras.5355 5 лет назад +4

    Swivel seats...yes! I love how excited you get! lol enjoy your adventures!

  • @followingbreadcrumbs
    @followingbreadcrumbs 5 лет назад +3

    what about something like a Westfalia set up? the couch folds up and you have the that for hanging out and the swivel seats create more seating for friends and you can have your table set up in the middle?
    can't wait to see what you end up with :-)

  • @maxh4195
    @maxh4195 5 лет назад

    I thought the same thing just watching your videos. It’s always nice to have a place where you can lounge to half work and half lay on the couch

  • @MM-fe9mz
    @MM-fe9mz 5 лет назад +5

    Definitely sounds like some good improvements. While I liked the Murphy idea it does limit the usable non sleeptime space.

  • @NicoVeenkamp
    @NicoVeenkamp 5 лет назад +2

    In my ProMaster City type van I have a couch where the wooden can slide out on a rail. I have backrest that then can fold down to fill the gap. If you want I can provide you with pictures.

  • @vernellbristow8823
    @vernellbristow8823 5 лет назад +1

    This is so exciting! I look forward to seeing the result.

  • @georgeleakos954
    @georgeleakos954 5 лет назад +3

    I kinda saw that problem during your murphy bed build and install. Lounging space is important for all the reasons you addressed. Looking forward to your remodelling job!

  • @susanweistart8980
    @susanweistart8980 5 лет назад +2

    The swivel seat, I think, would make a huge difference. You would have somewhere comfortable to kick back. Good luck!

  • @Mr.Mcclane
    @Mr.Mcclane 5 лет назад

    Glad to see this. When I saw the original design it seemed like you aimed more for the bed then anything else. Love the build videos and we learn from our mistakes.

  • @MacgyverSharon
    @MacgyverSharon 5 лет назад

    Good luck! Lookin fwd too your next revision!

  • @Julian-do7bv
    @Julian-do7bv 5 лет назад

    If you do a swivel seat just make sure its safe if you are in a wreck but I think it's a great idea to change the van around to fit your needs

  • @andrewconway7730
    @andrewconway7730 5 лет назад

    The layout I thought you should have done from the beginning. Kind of like the old vanagons, except the bed is along the wall instead of along the back. The swivel seat will open things up also.

  • @purvis70535
    @purvis70535 5 лет назад

    It's a good idea to want to revamp the design of the interior.. as you live in the van,the better sense you get of how it works best for you...looking forward to the rework...

  • @SweetTone76
    @SweetTone76 5 лет назад +4

    Do the recon camper bed, a day use couch and fold it down to a bed at night...

  • @j.rdirtyfivethirty1673
    @j.rdirtyfivethirty1673 5 лет назад +3

    Thats very nice of Ron. I remember him and his van from your tour videos. Good luck on the changes

  • @MattBroquard
    @MattBroquard 5 лет назад +3

    Yup sometimes it takes a little bit tell you find out the set up you really want! Thanks for the video enjoyed as always!

  • @PaDutchRunner
    @PaDutchRunner 5 лет назад

    Memory foam can easily be cut down to fit a custom bed size. I wouldn’t use a futon mattress. Plus memory foam mattresses can be had on the cheap from amazon and they are quite comfy.

  • @tinyelliott1728
    @tinyelliott1728 5 лет назад +4

    Life is all about change...even van life.

  • @monusbrewer4911
    @monusbrewer4911 5 лет назад +4

    Sounds cool! Good luck and enjoy the adventure.
    ✌️

  • @carlaifera5254
    @carlaifera5254 5 лет назад

    ....eagerly awaiting your build....no pressure....yesterday will be fine....🙂

  • @shadowmen21
    @shadowmen21 5 лет назад +2

    Do you think you could do a video on how you used sketchup for the design? Even if it’s rudimentary, it would be really helpful to see a vehicle specific design process. Thanks!

    • @angelambca
      @angelambca 5 лет назад

      Just Google it. Some ppl even have sketched up their van dimensions and made it shareable so if you have that make and model its read for you to just add the interior.

  • @KatyInNH
    @KatyInNH 5 лет назад

    Hi
    I am very interested in your new build. Best of luck!
    I have a table set up for my van similar and am thinking of doing Two shorter boards for the table for both storage ease and to provide two tabletops that I can use for a cutting board and a desk with a Lagun table and two mounts for the couch and for the swivel seat.

  • @ringomayhem
    @ringomayhem 5 лет назад

    Anxious to see the remodel!! After seeing you murphy bed set up, thats the way Im going in my cargo trailer conversion. Gotta get the bike in there!!

  • @patrickpps
    @patrickpps 5 лет назад +2

    You'll get it done. It will be a nice change for you. I'll have to go follow Ron now. Have fun with it. Hello from Palm Springs.

  • @thexxit
    @thexxit 5 лет назад

    When you first bought NV I was wondering how it would look and I checked out some online pics, and I saw a few builds that look similar to what you have planned out. My only thought is the counter - it takes up a great deal of space and you would have to either make it very narrow in my mind, or potentially move it. I know the NV isn't very long, but would a small counter fit behind the driver's seat? And must have a swivel seat for sure in the new set up! I feel like you'll miss that comfy mattress, but I see what you're saying! If this is your home, I have to be able to enjoy it when you're doing more than just sleeping and working!

  • @nosnerd1967
    @nosnerd1967 5 лет назад +6

    The passenger seat could /should be your workstation edit could

  • @TheDawnofVanlife
    @TheDawnofVanlife 5 лет назад

    Looking forward to the rebuild.

  • @MickeyMouse-bo5hj
    @MickeyMouse-bo5hj 5 лет назад

    You Sound Really Excited! Sounds Great!! Good To Hear From You!!!

  • @mike817fw
    @mike817fw 5 лет назад +3

    Would you ever think about getting a bigger van

  • @suesorensen2440
    @suesorensen2440 5 лет назад

    It sounds like the new set-up will work out much better for entertaining guests, as well as flying solo! Can't wait to see the new and improved version... peace!

  • @thisismaso
    @thisismaso 5 лет назад

    Hi I love how you set up up your van. Please message me how to get in touch with you I work in the city and thinking of doing the van fulltime. Hope to hear from you soon.

  • @trdh5465
    @trdh5465 5 лет назад +5

    Glad you'll have some help for the remodel! It will be better in the long "Ron"... ;p

  • @G-ra-ha-m
    @G-ra-ha-m 5 лет назад

    At some point the NV300 is going to be the next step. They are awesome vans in Europe (also known as the Renault Trafic) and give you about twice the space but still fit into a parking slot just fine.
    In the meantime as mentioned: get your seats swivelling and _then_ redesign the bed. If you make the bed with bed slats you also stop rot/damp buildup and can make it shorter during the day for sitting on just by removing some slats. Add in a relocatable travelling backrest across the bed and you have a very flexible solution.

  • @adamhlj
    @adamhlj 5 лет назад +1

    Have you ever seen or used one of those backpackers' guitars that are super compact?

    • @ElementLife
      @ElementLife  5 лет назад +1

      I have! I'm not a fan of them though. I do like the Little Martin and have thought about switching to it to gain space, but can't seem to let go of my Taylor!

    • @taradead
      @taradead 5 лет назад

      Good for practice...but sound like shit.

  • @georgiacorey954
    @georgiacorey954 5 лет назад

    Good luck. Sounds good.

  • @derykmacleod4979
    @derykmacleod4979 5 лет назад

    I agree, a more open floor plan and the swivel passenger seat and you can easily have 4 people in your van. I am converting a 2010 ftc and building the same as your new floor plan concept. But the beauty of doing it yourself, if you don't like it, drive over to Home Depot and pick up what you need and redo it!

  • @psychologicalsigma9917
    @psychologicalsigma9917 5 лет назад

    What about a long comfey couch in the back? Or a newer model futon, memory foam mattress?

  • @optionsexplored3239
    @optionsexplored3239 5 лет назад

    The first thing that stands out to me is how thick the mattress is. Is that a typical house type mattress? I'd want to cut its thickness in half or more.

  • @calihustler08
    @calihustler08 5 лет назад

    Right on! Love the channel, this is Awesome that you're giving it a face lift. Cant wait to see what it becomes.

  • @angelambca
    @angelambca 5 лет назад

    Interesting. I just drew up a couch with a Murphy bed that opens over top it. The top 7+ inches I was going to use for pillow storage during the day and couch backrest storage at night. I based the couch dimensions on my favourite armchair (just longer/wider?) in my sticks and bricks. I only camp in my van and have a big tent to set up in my campsite to hang in. Mosquitoes in my part of the world. Lol. Need a tent!

  • @JackieL7474
    @JackieL7474 5 лет назад

    I still look forward to your videos! It's interesting to see what a person can do with changes for the better. I'm still in the process of "thinking" but afraid to make a change. Keep up the good work because your videos are great!

  • @djcolt100
    @djcolt100 5 лет назад +1

    This is the most excited I’ve ever been.

  • @sloburnnn
    @sloburnnn 5 лет назад

    Did you ever get a swivel seat ? Also, that’s cool that you will be meeting up with Ron ( Ron In A Van ) for a remodel. I still watch his old van tour videos .

  • @TowelAtTheReady1
    @TowelAtTheReady1 5 лет назад

    Enjoy watching your videos. I lived in my 5th wheel RV for 6 years while I was in the Army. I'm somewhat familiar to the challenges you face daily. You're just doing it in a much smaller scale and I commend you for your hard work. I'm from San Antonio and have moved back and love it here. My question to you is... How do you live without Whataburger?!

  • @DeerheartStudioArts
    @DeerheartStudioArts 5 лет назад

    your plans sound great and you have put a lot of thought into them. life evolves and your projected social interactions will require your remodel. I get it. You go, Nate! let us see it happen and then invite us to a small van party.

  • @aldeen3
    @aldeen3 5 лет назад

    Your new setup seems pretty good

  • @haidyevans2682
    @haidyevans2682 5 лет назад +1

    I absolutely love your reenactments!

  • @philcapling8268
    @philcapling8268 5 лет назад

    A Swivel seat in a small van is almost a must. With a swivel seat you can have two work areas with your new configuration because you can work a micro fold down desk top that fits a laptop or iPad when your passenger swivel seat(s) face backward. And, you’ll be surprised how much space TWO swivel seats open up when facing toward the back of your van. Best wishes in your layout update and have safe travels!

    • @Regi869
      @Regi869 5 лет назад

      What about air bag issues?

    • @philcapling8268
      @philcapling8268 5 лет назад

      Since you only use the seat when stopped parking as a lounger, the airbag is not an issue. If you have a passenger or are driving the seat would be in the correct mode to work properly with the airbag in the vehicle. They really did a good job in designing them, but they are a little pricey.

  • @SMITHYSKONTIKI
    @SMITHYSKONTIKI 5 лет назад +1

    Nice van,great location and I like the name of the bed Murphy 😃

  • @livingthedash6727
    @livingthedash6727 5 лет назад +3

    Look at the couch beds in most RVs. Goes from a couch into a bed. Sit on the couch and cook and create the storage on the other side.
    Edit: Your sketch up idea is exactly what I was saying. 🤷‍♂️ Irony.

  • @predator6707
    @predator6707 5 лет назад

    Awesome Nate I hope your next bill will be better this one I thought was great though but if you need more room you got a fix it see you in the next one

  • @bevn362
    @bevn362 5 лет назад

    You should use drawer slides (support heavy-weight lbs) that you can pull out from that cabinet (or whatever it is called) that you can use as a table/desk when sitting on the sofa/couch/bed

  • @DrShonto
    @DrShonto 5 лет назад +4

    NATE...Glad you are getting rid of the Murphy bed...”Murphys Law”...ha ha ha

  • @Spangocico
    @Spangocico 5 лет назад

    Can’t wait to see the build

  • @garygiles63
    @garygiles63 5 лет назад

    Looking forward to seeing the rebuild.

  • @prestofortissimo5417
    @prestofortissimo5417 5 лет назад

    Have you considered a shade with mesh walls that could setup with any of your exterior doors? Add some zero grav chairs, you could have a nice exterior room with easy setup. Of course, I don't think you sit still long enough for this to work consistently, definitely not stealthy either

  • @GeorgePencilArt
    @GeorgePencilArt 5 лет назад +1

    Four people hanging out? Nah, you can fit 15 people in there. lol. Good ideas, Nate! Hope your plans to have Ron help you worked out well.

  • @donoho93
    @donoho93 5 лет назад

    Put a slide out drawer as your desk/eating area across from the couch/bed.make the slide out bed.its easy to build and converts quickly.

  • @GABRIEL_CRAFT
    @GABRIEL_CRAFT 5 лет назад

    Sounds like it's great improvement and set up

  • @catherinep2034
    @catherinep2034 5 лет назад

    I have wondered why U didn't leave fitting out the van until after the canopy was put on, so U could see what the space looked like, then decide the layout.
    Anyway, have fun with the remodeling. I look forward to seeing what you come up with.

  • @CSStonerCS
    @CSStonerCS 5 лет назад

    Yeah having the couch slash bed is nice kinda like what I have in my toyota see breeze class C camper it is nice and I don't know why people complain about jack knife beds I have had no issues with sleeping on mine

  • @jillk2316
    @jillk2316 5 лет назад

    wishing you luck :).. REALLY sounds like great ideas, looking forward to seeing how it all works out :)

  • @LiveInspired24.7
    @LiveInspired24.7 5 лет назад

    I think your ideas are going to be great and work a lot better for you. That being said, It was cool to see the Murphy Bed build :) Thanks for sharing. Peace

  • @zippindoraboutique9182
    @zippindoraboutique9182 5 лет назад

    Good plan

  • @Rtie189
    @Rtie189 5 лет назад +1

    Nate , I take four pillows and put them
    Under my chest to watch You Tube videos .
    Don’t forget , That Montreal Steak Seasoning is good in everything, never worry about taste again .

  • @leoinswlondon
    @leoinswlondon 5 лет назад +2

    You need a RIB bed. Do some research on VW T5 and T6 conversions. You will get a much better set up than couch mode.

  • @lostman65
    @lostman65 5 лет назад

    i thought they didn't make swivel seats for an nv200? can't wait to see the changes

    • @taradead
      @taradead 5 лет назад

      There's an english guy on YT who installed one in an nv200...looked like a pita though.

  • @ALYDAVIDSON1
    @ALYDAVIDSON1 5 лет назад +1

    Hi Nate good move getting rid of the Murphy bed and having a swivel seat, here's a vid of how to do the swivel conversion: ruclips.net/video/ABwmjVxD1fc/видео.html