CARDBOARD: Better Than CAD - Van design refined

Alterations to design, changes in concept, failed ideas are some of the most welcomed issues in building a van! If...you're building with cardboard first! How wide should the galley be? Is the hallway too narrow? Where will we eat? These questions will be answered by living it. Walking through it, feeling it, touching it. Cardboard, better than CAD.
#onahumbleroad
#vanbuild

[@pawlet]

I love watching your creative process. Collaboration + inspiration = cool van builds.

[@HumbleRoad]

More to come!

[@johndigiovanni]

CAD: Cardboard Aided Design.

[@peterwhitcomb8315]

OMG, he better steal that acronym :)

[@maur2far]

Love the pantry idea, especially because you said two of them will be installed instead of 1 tall one. I made that mistake in my kitchen - too heavy and wobbly. Smarter to go with two separate roll outs stacked. Way to go Mrs. Sprinter!

[@Blackwater_House]

For a Man who builds inside a Box, you certainly Think outside of it at every opportunity.

[@HumbleRoad]

I like that expression!

[@BarryDuttonSellsHomes]

I literally just sit here and shake my head in awe at so many of your videos and ideas George, on the stuff you come up with building Wheel Estate solutions for people. Like, I do it a lot.

[@HumbleRoad]

Wow, thank you! Wheel Estate! I love it!

[@dlg5485]

I liked your little dig on cancel culture.

[@haze8223]

You deserve all the credit I can give ya.. i love how you experiment and make some amazing new ideas 💡 love it

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you so much!

[@srameypr]

So many questions ... Where will the front seat's foot rest be if that toilet has to come out? And won't that side rail on the left side of the toilet slide become a trip hazard when the person gets up? And where are you getting your large cardboard sheets? (It doesn't look like you are cutting up refrigerator boxes.) I think you could definitely turn that bed panel into a book display or a place to put art/photos, which would add color and they could switch things out for variety. As usual, a wonderful video that gets my brain going ...

[@CPB111]

you just made everyone who foregoes building in a bathroom want to do this. Its brilliant.

[@stevenwolfe2279]

Great ideas George.! Can you trade mark those ideas so that the big camper companies will pay you some royalties?

[@bjbhehir]

A few weeks ago I watched some guy doing a van tour of his $150K 2020 Winnebago Van and all the new features he was so excited about I've seen in van builds for years!

[@matejrotovnik6979]

Incredible idea... space saving... I hope you will make it happen some day... :-)

[@statewidefilms]

excellent .. can't wait to see the bed transformer.. optimus bed .. ? LOL

[@minutemark]

I think it's funny (and maybe a little sad) that you have to throw in all those caveats because people just can't wrap their heads around the idea of a "mock-up." Great ideas, George!

[@Reality_TV]

I was thinking the SAME thing! He KNEW he would get comments about the table, so he quickly made it clear that the foam wasn't the table! LOL...he knows that some will go crazy in the comments!

[@HumbleRoad]

Last week I had a guy ask if you open the armoires, is there room to get in the shower? I answered, "no, you have to climb into the galley sink and hop in from there..."

[@minutemark]

@@HumbleRoad On behalf of humanity, please accept my apology!

[@HumbleRoad]

😁

[@_GntlStone_]

Could be made out of the foam though. I've seen videos where they've made all the cabinets out of foam reinforced by fiberglass mesh - uber strong and lightweight.

[@charlesmoman]

I just bought 5 10' x 6' cardboard sections from a manufacturer. We got them in my new-to-me 2018 Ford Transit 250 medium roof and soon will start mocking up to start my KZbin van0build series. It will include a potty with shower setup, kitchen and living space with two sofas that turn into a spare bed for us. We will continue to tow our Runaway Camper 6x8 fiberglass RangeRunner as our very comfy bedroom. I hope to be done by February - no plumbing that needs to be winterized and power based around EcoFlow Delta 1300's that run anything and also can switch over to shore power. I am getting great ideas from you - thanks so much. Retired elementary music teacher - not interested in going full time at all - we love camping trips AND our home of over 30 years! : )

[@colleenkaralee2280]

:-)) Well, shut my mouth :-))

[@drewsbenmad]

You are like the Leonardo DaVinci of van design , working with cardboard not clay and inventing new ways to enjoy life 😀

[@HumbleRoad]

Wow, thanks!

[@theresalind8031]

Hey Humble, how about a little trompe l'eoil on the Sprinter step panel ? I occasion a small Irish pub that has it on a tight wall and it totally blows open the space and is entertaining as well. 🤓

[@JeffErdmann]

Awesome design & ergonomic functionality, not easy to accomplish but worth it!

[@awake2truth511]

For the first van, I wonder if you could install a nautilus pull door for the shower because it doesn't take much space and could fit in behind everything.Yes- to fold out candelabra. Brilliant as always George. TY.

[@michelthibodeau8550]

I have to agree with you ... I guess it worth the time. Specially if tou wear a belt and suspenders ! ! ! Just kidding I love your work, you're the best ! ! ! Now since I've listened to all your videos and I'm addicted to them, I guess I'll have to do like others and wait for the next one !

[@dcurleyifa]

Glad to see you took up my idea of a Lagun Table mount etc, but Why not just mount another lagun mount by the bed for the dining area, then you don’t need the weight of 2 tables just one, is it likely that 2 tables will be in use at the same time ?. I wish I had seen your Cardboard prototype idea before we started our conversion, I still may use your swing out cupboard from shower area idea, such a great use of space. Keep pushing yourself vids out I learn something new on every one. Dave

[@LocdnessMomster]

Plan is to combine the two, but use a twin sized bed over the dinette set and have the peninsula on the passenger side so I can have a gaming set up that uses the kitchen counter top. Just gotta figure out how to double the battery capacity and add a small oven and top loading fridge, but you've given me soooo many ideas!!

[@pcat1378]

Just thinking about the table (I love the shower/loo idea....what a space saver) my concern about the table is cables? say you have a laptop on there or are charging a phone etc and want to move the table out the way, what about the cabling? Going up the leg? power outlets on the wall (where you said the TV would be?) Power outlets on the table?

[@davidmccormick9022]

What do you think about helping someone design a floor plan for a casino Shuttle with wheelchair access

[@_GntlStone_]

Love the progress update. Some constructive feedback. Sprinter build; Look at stair storage in tiny houses. Maybe a sliding staircase using that awesome linear actuator setup from the promaster. Could act as support also. Access to storage from galley when slid forward. Stepped could add visual interest and ease of access to that seat when table is in place. Promaster build; how will toilet slide work with false floor/ foot support? Folds in center whe toilet slides out automatically? Manually fold up towards shower wall or seat? If permanent it seems it would disallow slide actuation. Wish I could be your apprentice for a while. Your cardboard mockups remind me of my 3D design class at RISD where main project was to make a folding, transportable desk and chair out of cardboard that would have to support your weight through entire 6hr critique class at end of semester. Can't wait for the next video!

[@HumbleRoad]

My daughter went to RISD. I should be teaching there! I would live on a Tug Boat in Newport, commute in an Austin Healey 3000.

[@_GntlStone_]

@@HumbleRoad I loved Newport & Kingston area, so close to the city but so serene

[@scottnormand5858]

All right. So the wife loves the idea of tucking away the toilet out of the shower stall when showering. How do you keep water from entering the drawer face leading out of the shower? Such an awesome idea.

[@edwardvarga2017]

Love your "squirrel" moments and, like my spouse, ALWAYS thinking....

[@TheHogJockey]

Love this idea for using the space in the shower!

[@HumbleRoad]

Me too!!

[@rosed7989]

Very good ideas.. i’ve been watching other videos too.

[@danielvanmourik5247]

the dimensions of the Mercedes sprinter are also the same as the volkswagen crafter. thank you in advance

[@kaoskev]

I need to get some cardboard... and a van.

[@JediScum420]

Your the mad scientist of van builds.

[@SN-qu2gz]

I am pretty sure you might be a genius. Loved the vid thanks.

[@idbek]

Ingenious combo unit - toilet, closet, shower. Really interesting design!

[@HumbleRoad]

Glad you like it!

[@idbek]

Humble Road You are convincing me to do it the cardboard way first. So much work, but it is something I would do.

[@southhillfarm2795]

Some excellent, space utilization.

[@knockknockbusted]

PR: toilet operator could still be productive on laptop.

[@rhondawaldron]

😄

[@agustinmarioascanio1260]

I like the carboard desing/creative system, sit and feel

[@mayinnlin1879]

Thank you George! Love to watch. Amazing van build as always. 👍😍

[@ernielatham-brown774]

Mock ups are great I was in automotive and it’s used all the time to prove out a concept

[@cpw8191]

7:39 - cycling content appreciated!

[@mrgropius66]

BIM. Better than CAD or cardboard.

[@quepaso568398]

Great ideas. Thanks for sharing.

[@TN-jj3lg]

I have a “Bumble Bee” 3500 promaster, brand new of 2018. I love to have it build as a full time camper van, specially build by you. How do I get in touch with you? And when will you have time for it?

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you for thinking of me to build your van. I have two van builds in the shop now, which will take me through Spring 2021. After that, I will be building several spec vans and shuttle buses. I will offer those up for sale as I complete them. You might be interested in one of those. Stay tuned!

[@stuartstuart866]

Neat video, thank you. Two questions: 1) Would the aluminum angle support for the toilet drawer catch on your left foot when leaving from the sitting position? 2) What about installing struts that would support the lifting of a non folding mattress, up and out of the way, when you want to sit at the rear table? Kind of like a vehicle engine hood. Would there be enough head clearance for this to work? Anyway, I really like your origami style interiors, very creative, getting so much function out of limited space.

[@HumbleRoad]

The angle support is right on the toilet, so it's not likely to catch a foot. If so, I think you have a bigger problem... 😁 Angle the mattress upwards like a car hood? I haven't seen that in the Plaza, nor the Waldoff...

[@stuartstuart866]

Humble Road Regarding angle support, must have been viewer perspective. Haha, no I don’t imagine fancy hotels would need to do that. I’ve seen some RV beds done this way to access storage under the bed.

[@thinmen]

You have inspired me to build my own van! I have been bingeing on your videos and I admire your eye for design, your thoughtfulness about the process, and the advice to enjoy the process! You have convinced me that making a cardboard mock up is the best way to really visualize how the build will look and feel, but where do you get all of your cardboard? Yours looks so smooth and pristine; clearly you’re not just using old refrigerator boxes!

[@HumbleRoad]

Go for it! Source your cardboard locally. It's too expensive to ship!

[@deniseclarke2009]

love the cardboard I always use it

[@LisaRenewsLife]

That table design? BRILLIANT! So impressive.

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you very much!

[@tomm6789]

I am sure you can use the table and toilet at the same time.😅😅👍👍

[@nazeryoshi]

The stairs your doing for the bed maybe they'll pull out to form steps to the bed but also open up for storage? Love the ideas and OPTIONS!!

[@HumbleRoad]

Yes! Darrell! Maybe the drawers ARE the steps...

[@danaschoen432]

You make some very nice (and helpful) vids regarding these van builds. I have a 1974 Airstream that I will likely start remodeling in earnest next year. I have found them very helpful and oft times more than a little inspirational toward that goal. Your videos benefit greatly from your professional photography experience. If you will forgive me I will suggest that that could be the source of plenty of really good content (as some of us have this dream of making interesting and informative you tube content when we can get loose from the yoke!). This viewer believes that you might very well have something to teach about building GOOD "How Too" videos. I have looked for these several times and the creator never seems to hit the right note on the artistry or the technical facets of this very interesting craft. Watching your videos one gets a sense that you have the right blend of artist and technician to be great teacher of this subject. What say? I'll be watching you!

[@HumbleRoad]

Very kind of you and I am humbled that you have that opinion of me. I'm going to have to clone yet another George! What shall we call this one!?

[@shabazan]

On the ProMaster, why not a NAUTILUS Retractable Shower Door to close off the shower when the cabinets are open?

[@HumbleRoad]

The Nautilus housing is too large for that area. +/- 5 inches

[@Fixajo]

I thought jacked dude in the front was your son 7:39. I like your ideas. My plan is to have a rotating front seat with a lagun table and a screen that's mounted to the wall. But I wanted to utilize the legroom somehow. And I also wanted to save the space above the toilet (without having to slide the toilet to the middle of the van), and my main goal was to not lose the shower space when not showering. I'm designing my tiny van on CAD. Will make it by the end of 2021.

[@HumbleRoad]

No my son is the little kid racing against the jacked dude!

[@higbeedoug]

Real knee-jerk thought here but here, that portion that folds up, if you were to split it A,B, & C, and use a quality marine (like bathroom door latch) to join them, when you fold up the bed, the far ends of A and C can be latched to the wall and B, once unlatched, can fold back down as a table instead of adding a table. Yes, you'd be looking at the underside of the mattress but not if you ran a piece of sheathing across the bottom from A to C so you won't see it. I've also seen steps made from drawers like you have already on the right there. Can the bottom one, or maybe even two be pulled out and have a detent to stay and step up. Age is a consideration for this but fold out steps... Also, another table I'm sure you've seen is the pullout from under the bed. 1) this could be the table itself or, 2) a 'T' is pulled out to support the 'B' section of that bed that, again, folds down to form the table, with rounded corners to enable entry to the seats. Then again, the most common is a table that folds up from the bulkhead and is strong enough to be used to support the bed folded down instead of 3/4 -1" plywood base going completely across. Also, you know when in bed, its body width we need and can afford to trim a little by the head and feet. How about, once the bed is folded down, the corner is slightly cut off in order to utilize the dining seat as a step for each side of the bed along with each side dedicated hand-grip to pull and and steady at the same time. Don't know the audience, hence the reason for the extreme thoughts.

[@HumbleRoad]

Keep’em coming

[@raychambers3646]

CAD cardboard aided design ?

[@OrganicHealer]

Gotta be able to poop without missing a moment of tv

[@mreis221]

This is all really inspiring, but also intimidating. I want to do my build on my own with some help from family and friends, but I think I might need some help from someone like you!

[@HumbleRoad]

You can do it!

[@YahDude]

As a CAD Op. I'm offended.

[@Greybeardmedic]

#1 I would put the tracks inside the cabinet, and have the toilet extend out like an extension drawer. However, since this is a shower that may not be possible. But it was the thought I had when I saw your first toilet design in Vagabond

[@HumbleRoad]

This exact plan was to go in Vagabond, but they changed their minds at the last minute.

[@mnsignr]

G; have you ever come across a PM van with a passenger side, bench seat; to be removed and replaced with a drivers seat (that unfortunately has the air bag on the left side, but, needs to be on the right side)???

[@HumbleRoad]

I will not mess with the chassis in any way. To go up against the Federal Highway Safety Commission, you have to be a lot taller than me...

[@jobar4170]

When the person will be seated on the toilet, his right side gonna be to tight against the cabinet. You should offset the toilet to his left side or maybe a double slide system. Sorry for the bad english.

[@HumbleRoad]

Certainly, there are some refinements to be made.

[@rudivandoornegat2371]

And I'm wondering where the toiletpaper, wood chips and vinegar spray bottle will be situated. Plus additional cleaning equipment.

[@HumbleRoad]

This Nature's Head is only a stand in. The actual toilet type has yet to be determined, but I don't think it will be a composter.

[@pepelepew4117]

@@HumbleRoad It'll be interesting to see how get a different type of toilet to work on the slide.

[@WillaPowellGraceInTheWild]

Doesn’t the composting toilet have a fan and vent to outside? Do you use flexible hose and extra electrical wire to proceed through the slide?

[@HumbleRoad]

Yes, the hose provided with the toilet is much like a vacuum cleaner hose. Very easy to have it move in and out with the sled. You'll see!

[@mackenmd]

Simply brilliant! Love the interative process.

[@HumbleRoad]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lynnettemilleville9517]

Can you tell us more about the I beams?

[@kiloohm]

Cardboard Aided Design

[@jeffkinsel191]

What about the slide out stairs that just fold out of a single piece of plywood? Then you still have room for some small drawers.

[@HumbleRoad]

What if the drawers ARE the stairs! Stay tuned.

[@kaoskev]

Great trick to get a dry bath in a van

[@esparka]

I used to think my house near uptown in CLT was small. (1931, craftsman bungalow) But, after immersing myself in the, “Humble Road”, way of thinking, I now realize that my wonderful home is HUGE!! George, now, you have given me only enough info to be dangerous to myself & to others; nevertheless, the new fit looks and feels great….! Thank you

[@esparka]

That dining table. That amazing, movable, gourmet table of yours! You’re killing me with the level of innovation, and unending dissatisfaction, you demonstrate with each new session I visit.

[@esparka]

Technical correction @ the end: “Here we go. We’re off for another week.” Just thinking you were probably not off. You? Off? For a whole week? The next vid will prove my doubting suspicion once & for all….

[@timtim-ef7xu]

Would you ever consider venturing into enclosed trailers? Awesome videos.

[@HumbleRoad]

I'd like to build out a flatbed trailer. I need to make my own walls. Could be fun.

[@davec5209]

When i saw the other video that presented the sliding toilet beneath the Lagun table at the front i wondered where the raise floor would go when you want to slide out the loo. Did you say how the sliding toilet floor would come out and replace the false raised floor, would it just be a removable section of floor or maybe hinged at the van wall side or chair side ? Great video and i like the way its presented.

[@HumbleRoad]

Toilet tracks live under the raised floor. Long thin guide slots for travel.

[@johngrant1337]

Flat screen TV or computer monitor in that back( front ) of the the folding bed In the sprinter Van

[@HumbleRoad]

mounted on the side of the fridge wall.

[@Xalta_Sailor]

Fabulous natural storytelling like yours is a beautiful art. Thanks you, sir.

[@HumbleRoad]

Many thanks!

[@vidguy007]

You gotta love cardboard and blue tape interior mockups

[@HumbleRoad]

Yep.

[@David_11111]

my coffee came late today

[@adamboozer9204]

I saw a vid from a couple who had a "pass through" bathroom. Is that something you'd consider in a build? It looked like a great use of space to me, plus it was a sizable private bathroom with slider doors on each side. They have the Extended Sprinter. I'd be interested to see how it would work in the longest Promaster.

[@chipbrown433]

It's too bad Curt didn't video the build of that van. The filtered recirculating shower is awesome. I would have loved to see his cardboard mockups, if he worked that way. But George's videos have a panache that no one else comes close to.

[@sandygraham7943]

Your ideas are awesome! You got me thinking hard on my build as I build

[@HumbleRoad]

Go for it!

[@Xalta_Sailor]

Would love to support an Affiliate Link for “linear bearings” and other items you utilize and explain. You’re likely too busy but maybe a revenue share with a local computer geek would be mutually beneficial; and helpful to views too! 🥂

[@HumbleRoad]

Here's my Amazon Affiliate page: www.humbleroad.tv/?p=965

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you!

[@-joe90]

The best !!!!👍🏻😀

[@arielfetters5662]

The sprinter van's folding bed-wall thing you were thinking of putting a recess in. Maybe a decorative mural? You could make one big shallow recess, use magnets on a frame with inset glass or plexiglass to hold in a picture, then that way you could have a picture mural that can be changed at-will easily that wont be easily damaged and could just be wiped down for cleaning.

[@HumbleRoad]

I like the way you think!

[@arielfetters5662]

@@HumbleRoad Thanks :D

[@philwilliams3817]

George, when are you coming to the UK? We need you.

[@corvair69]

Have you ever installed an InvisaCook under the counter induction cooktop system? If you have, what is your experience.

[@HumbleRoad]

I am not familiar with InvisaCook.

[@corvair69]

@@HumbleRoad Apologies. I saw the product on Matt Risinger's channel. I was attracted to its installation under the countertop which opened the countertop for other uses when cooking wasn't the priority. Thank you for sharing your videos and build ideas.

[@lylestavast7652]

will the toilet slide above the foot platform you mentioned being there when using the table from the reversed driver seat ?

[@HumbleRoad]

Yes.

[@chipbrown433]

I was wondering about how that would work. Perhaps have the foot stool fold down from the side of the toilet cabinet and fold up before pulling out the tray when ya gotta go. I guess it depends on how high the footstool needs to be so the owner doesn't feel like Edith Ann.

[@lylestavast7652]

@@chipbrown433 and THATs THA TWRUTH !!!

[@lylestavast7652]

@@HumbleRoad good channel, good thinking - I figured you had it under control :)

[@T8RTU]

Perfect planning produces perfect product 😎👍

[@HumbleRoad]

Absolutely!

[@dindog22]

I think this is the best use of the shower space. most people who have vans and RV's with showers usually store stuff in there anyway. I'm wondering about the privacy when using the toilet

[@HumbleRoad]

The van is your bathroom. If you personally want more privacy, it's not a problem. You can have a curtain, or walls. Just remember; for every inch you add, must be taken from something else.

[@nicholsceramiccoating8284]

Keep up the good work they're looking awesome

[@HumbleRoad]

Thanks, will do!

[@sowetorecreationalvehicles7658]

Yu need to come down south ... following your designs like the bible... yu gud ...

[@gacattack1234]

Whether you need it or not, now you can use your laptop while on the bowl. A free bonus.

[@HumbleRoad]

That’s not a coincidence! Some of my best work is done there! 😊

[@Reality_TV]

George I love watching you work! Excellent ideas! I love walking through your vision and your thoughts and seeing the final build come together. One of the couples you built for did a walk-through of their van and when I saw the van, I was SO excited because I saw it being built on your channel! It felt like being there for a birth and then seeing the kid all grown up! LOL...I love the process!

[@HumbleRoad]

That's a great analogy!

[@daylight5500]

I came, I saw, I marveled. Your toilet is truly a moving experience. I am confident that you will solve this ....but if you put a shadow box where you indicated on the folding bed piece, that will be where one puts a knee to get onto the bed, once folded out.

[@HumbleRoad]

Yes, so keep that in mind as you brainstorm...

[@BelindaTOV]

Looking good!

[@Greybeardmedic]

#2 I would consider having the toilet sit in a garage door cabinet, like a tambour. Open the garage door, pull out the toilet. That way the occupant doesn't need to worry about clearing their leg/groin around the top edge of the cabinet door.

[@HumbleRoad]

That can still be done.

[@Roobah]

@Eric @Humble Road - I really want to see someone build vertical tambour doors in a van, whether out of wood, or aluminum. I want a door like this to separate my driver area from the back of my shuttle bus.

[@grahamewebber6760]

Love your stuff George but think using the drawer space to store steps is counter to your generally amazing spacial use of every inch in a van build.

[@HumbleRoad]

Maybe the drawers ARE the steps! Stay tuned

[@grahamewebber6760]

Humble Road as I say George when it comes to van build inventiveness “your the man” 👍

[@farishaahmad1517]

About the table, why not use lagoon table instead?

[@HumbleRoad]

A Legun will not travel linear. It moves on an arc.

[@Greybeardmedic]

Otherwise nicely done, but where are the cardboard templates of the clients? If baseball can do it, maybe you should do it.

[@HumbleRoad]

That's very funny! Don't be surprised if you see that in next weeks video. I'll credit you as a writer.

[@Greybeardmedic]

@@HumbleRoad 😁

[@gtg356y]

Where do you get large cardboard panels?

[@HumbleRoad]

WB Mason

[@flyonthewall7026]

You are a 'Triple A' van designer George 👍

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you! I try.

[@fielroht51]

😎

[@MykSr]

You are absolutely Phenomenal❗️ What I enjoy the most is you sharing you logical, methodical thought 💭 process and your dedication to functional perfection. 😎

[@HumbleRoad]

You are so welcome

[@mimasworld1421]

Fantastic ideas, George - as per usual for you! Love to see the thought process. You’ve given me an idea to toy with for my shower/toilet but rather than pulling the toilet out to use it, pulling it out to use the shower/make the shower larger. Thank you!

[@HumbleRoad]

Depending on the leg room, we might be doing the same thing.

[@ZolaBolingo]

Déjà vu. Greetings from France ❤️

[@007nadineL]

Toilet sled? omgosh I'm laughing hard at that one. IMHO sorry I really, really don't want my movie night interrupted with a man pulling out a toilet sled while I'm snacking on my popcorn. Seriously UGGGG GROSS ‼ Plus there is not much room to relax on the bidet relaxed... so far... .