Adding a bed to the van is the second, larger interior project that I’m working on and probably the most important addition to the RV.
The bed has a simple design, with many complicated requirements added to the construction. I decided a long time ago, that living space is crucial for a well-designed recreational vehicle. My experience reminds me that inclement weather can prevent you from leaving the vehicle for multiple days or longer and having enough floor space to move around (and standing straight) is the primary objective for this conversion.
A Murphy bed seemed to me the logical solution, where the floor space could be retained during the day (and keep a messy bed out-of-sight). To make optimal use of the interior space, I added a collapsible desk, where one can sit comfortably during the day, working or just surfing the Internet. A retractable monitor/tv is built-in above the bed and accessible from the desk or the passenger-side swivel seat. And with some design flair, I Incorporated a picture into the design.
Design Details
Features
On the right side, at the bottom of the cabinets, a floor vent is visible. The cabinets to the left of that, and under the bed itself, can be used for batteries or to store the bed linens. The top-right overhead cabinet holds the retractable 17 or 20 inch monitor/tv. In a closed position, the bed shows a picture frame.
Working Desk
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Previously, I wanted the desk to be perpendicular to the bed/wall, but the height and position of the bed did not allow for that. This would have offered better views through the sliding door windows, when sitting at the desk.
The Bed