Whether your van build is slapped together, or slowly renovated these van build design hacks will complete the look and bring it together. These are all about thoughtful tips and tricks to fall in love with your van every time you see it.
It’s not just about looking good, but also staying clean. Van life can be messy at the best of times, by adding these design hacks, it can clean things up whilst also be functional (see tip 3).
From vinyl stickers, to custom curtains and more, follow along for these van build design hacks, and make your van a home.
Table of Contents
Vinyl Stickers
These multi-functional, easy-to-use vinyl stickers can go anywhere. They can also be used to keep spaces clean. I use vinyl stickers on my kitchen countertop area, and it makes it easier to clean up spills and wipe away messes than it would on the bare wood.
As such, these stickers would also make a lovely backsplash, or wallpaper. Vinyl stickers are also easy (and affordable) to purchase in stores and online. And, there’s plenty of options from modern colours to fun designs. It’s the great way to add personality to a space and feel at home while on your wheels. There’s different options on Amazon for these, just be careful to order the right amount.
Seat Covers (with Pockets)
Finding space in areas with otherwise awkward space options is my favourite part of when design meets functionality. Seat covers are a great way to do this, but finding unique seat covers. This serves as a comfortable seating area, while maybe holding shoes, books, and other small useful items.
There are some online options for personalised seat covers, but if you’re at a loss of, then get into some embroidery and sew on pockets and design your own. Or, if hand sewing isn’t your thing, use a sewing machine.
Custom Curtains
I’ve never seen a van without curtains, and cool curtains are a great way to design a space. There’s fun patterns, colours of all sorts and even trademarked designs up for grabs. Whether you’re purchasing online or making your own, turn up the functionality and design on custom curtains.
For my van build, I added two different materials on my curtains; one is a green and white leaf design curtain fabric and the other is a blackout insulated material. The combination of these two actually keeps the heat and light out. Yes, sleeping in during the summer is possible!
It’s easy and affordable to DIY curtains, or ask a relative/friend after picking up some goods from your local fabric store (or online options). These will make a lasting van build design hack while also keeping your van cool year-round.
Painted Plywood
Custom van build structures come in a variety of materials and methods. Something I’ve used to personalise and create a cozy space is by painting plywood for the walls, flooring and ceiling. The design feature is pretty clear here, vinyl wallpaper could be used after painting for design, or any colour.
I used a mix of a light brown and blue in my DIY custom van build to keep it looking clean, open and bright, while still feeling like a home on the road. Visit your local paint store and see if they sell small jars (around half a litre) also called ‘sample pots’ which can help when you only need a small amount.
Another functionality of painting plywood (aside from it being a literal wall) is that many paints contain ingredients to help prevent the build-up of mould—to which could also be a health hazard. Ensure excess paint and paint containers are discarded safely, which is usually done at local paint stores or recycling facilities.
Blankets, Pillows and More
Whether it’s from a thrift store (op shop) or brand new, design your comfort. This final van build design hack is all about matching, mismatching, or simple colours. Anything goes when it comes to livening up a space with bed linen. Mix things up with different textures, fabrics, colours and design.
A sustainable option is to choose ethically-made and sustainably-sourced fabrics and products. This includes products made responsibly such as Fair-trade, or organic fabrics, and naturally-derived. Meaning cotton, bamboo, hemp, linen, rayons and more. Lighter options can brighten up a space, but may appear dirty or stained easier. While darker designs and colours can create depth and contrast with those light options.
Play around and have fun with these van build design hacks. They can be done on any budget and any level of creativity. What matters most is to have an enjoyable van build to live in and travel around in. These design hacks are meant to add to your happy space and prepare you for more adventures.
Check out more van life hacks such as organising and storage hacks, and the ultimate van life packing list. Or my complete van build guide to see everything done on my custom DIY van build.
