The design for the van conversion keeps evolving, while it is under construction.

The Murphy Bed/Desk is slowly taking shape, but many of its intricate details face constant scrutiny. When work on the bed frame started, I had to make sure, that the adjoining closet would fit well in the overall design. Two issues reappeared:
Sufficient storage width for a kayak is limited by the cabinets on both sides of the interior.
Walking space inside the living area must be maximized.

Two reasons for the same problem. A closet to hang clothing was planned next to the bed, and was sticking out about seven inches. The overall depth of about 20 inches, is due to the fact the cloth hangers are about 16.5 inches wide. That makes the cabinet protrude into the walkway.
To solve or reduce its impact, I decided to rotate its layout by 90 degrees, increasing its width, and at the same time reducing its depth by four inches. That doesn’t seem that much, but in a confined area, like that of a conversion van, every inch has a huge impact on the design.
This setup results in the clothing hanging parallel to the wall and virtually unaccessible from the living area. To solve this, I’ll install a drawer slider to the ceiling of the cabinet, that allows my attire to be pulled out, ready to be selected.

Bed Supports and Legs

I have also struggled to find a good solution on how to implement the two legs of the Murphy Bed. Common practice is a metal bar that rotates from the top (inside the bed) down to underneath the bed; sometimes the legs are integrated into the front (outside) of the bed. Neither option appealed to me.
Where the bed frame is normally composed of two ¾ inch boards to support the weight of the bed, I choose one full-length ½ inch board, plus two added ½ inch boards on the inside of the frame up to the horizontal elevation of the bed. This would still provide the necessary support for the bed, yet leave enough room above these supports yo store each leg.

These issues seem trivial, but they keep me awake at night. And remember, that they may have been solved on paper (and in my head), but I am realistic to know that execution isn’t always so easy. You’re here to follow the progress, and watch how it works out!