CHOOSING A LAYOUT | Framing Our Promaster & Window Install

[@susiestokely3528]

Definitely NO to the couch and YES to shower/toilet!!!

[@bethschenk2851]

Could not agree more!

[@TottenhamHotspur_32516]

Everything about the layout seems perfect. But would be great to build a separate shower and space for toilet instead of a couch.

[@islboy808]

I totally agree

[@OldJohnT102347]

DITTO I just cant imagine, especially for boondockers, having an RV without a shower YUK having to drive to town for a Gym or Y to find a shower.

[@douglasw5371]

@@OldJohnT102347 maybe they will add an outdoor shower.

[@o.c.smithiii2626]

Maybe a collapsible shower like in a Rialta, maybe omitting the bathroom lavatory, or even a simple removable curtain hanger( hulahoop ?) and a stowaway shower pan like a washing machine overflow/drip pan ( #3 washtub or infant pool ) or possibly even a folding wooden frame with a heavy residential shower pan liner grade membrane and a showerhead to attach to the kitchen sink, all to stowaway when not in use. You might just appreciate a shower after a hike or ride whlle boondocking. A passive solar water heater tube on the roof would give you a nice little bit of hot water.

[@pagecericola7342]

Toilet n shower for me

[@katzsparkly8324]

Love the couch area idea, what about hiding a shower pan under the couch? You could store the curtain under the couch. Just hang it up when you need a shower type thing. This way it’s not a “permanent” fixture. The shower pan under couch area with Glasliner/Plastic Panel. It’s super thin so low weight. You could also set up an outside shower, you just need the shower head and a curtain, use heavy duty magnets from Harbor Freight. Are you doing a water heater? My priority’s for my build beyond basic insulation and such is the biggest water tank I can - with filter system. Hidden toilet/shower. Mucho Solar based on costs and capabilities. Queen fixed bed. Swivel Seat / bench-table area to work & eat.

[@anydirection]

If you could somehow use the dinette area as a dual purpose area for the couch/sitting area and put a shower/toilet where you want your couch. In a space like a van, you have to find ways to use a space in multiple ways. If you have a dinette area and a couch area, when you are using one the other area is just a waste of space. But love you guys and love the van idea.

[@tracy2092]

if you put the sink close to the door you could use the tap faucet as an outdoor shower. Just a suggestion of course 😊😊

[@williambranham6249]

Yes I've seen that. However there are a lot of humans who have to be inside. Not me. It's more enjoyable to bathe outside. It's liberating.

[@1tballen]

If the sink is closest to the van door and has a pull out sprayer you could use it like an outdoor shower and rinse feet, shoes etc.

[@mikeanderson6522]

I like. And wash hair outside.

[@BeccifromOz]

Have you thought about making the dinette seats with a ‘recliner’ foot rest that pops up in your isle, and leaning back against the window side? A lot of high end caravans in Australia use them. That gives you a cozy spot to sit, and would allow a mini shower and bathroom where you’re planning on the couch.

[@johnwren3976]

Swap the sink location with the range. Have the sink by the door. Install a flexi spout that can be used to spray off outside or even shower. You can buy a shower/potty tent for cheap. Makes your plumbing much more accessible too.

[@recessivegenius6630]

Yes! Absolutely! Switch the sink and the stove. I have a pop up changing/potty tent. It's awesome!

[@Maximoootom]

Agree. You don’t need a built in shower. You only use it 10 minutes a day then you are stuck with that loss of space. You can always shower outside with a curtain!

[@SaYeager]

A window in the sliding side door makes it easier to pull out and drive. But you can always install it later.

[@BigFireDave]

You could put an outside shower in the back so with the rear doors open you could hang a rod between the doors with a shower curtain for a back wall for the shower.

[@kathleenjasa3125]

Not sure what you’re thinking about for fridge?..but if it was me..I would have it elevated higher than most I see. Everyone always seems to either be squatting or standing on their head to see/reach into fridge. Love watching!

[@Elaine_Jim_McGuire]

I am enjoying watching you two create your new home! As a long time RV'er I Gotta say, I would have to have a wet bath instead of couch. Not only functional, but would also increase resale value. Thank you for taking us with you on this journey.

[@williambranham6249]

I agree. Modern humans need a convenient place to bathe. Moist towelettes only do so much.

[@dsmadre3840]

Couldn’t agree more! Shower is a must. If you create the L shaped sofa out of the dinette as someone else suggested, you will not need a tiny sofa too. Otherwise I love it!

[@jenniferwilliams8852]

I suggest putting the sink by the door so you have an outdoor shower option with a faucet that can pull out and spray!

[@jameselliott7104]

One of the things one learns in doing carpentry is the order of things. The Van has structure, and before I would even put in the framing members, I would set up my electrical wiring. the Van has a lot of conduits to do the wiring for your Van build and not to take advantage of it before you do the framing, means that you may have to do some workarounds that were not given thought to. So, do the wiring now before you complete the framing. Otherwise, you might end up tearing out the framing in order to set in the wiring for the Van.

[@tsaporiti1663]

Have you ever checked into putting in an outdoor shower at the back of the van - with an on demand water heater? Saw some pretty neat builds where they had a teak floor they put down and then a curtain they could attach between the doors and protecting the bed and garage area. Love the layout!

[@chrislindgren5625]

Put in a halo shower like the storytellers have. It folds up into the over head cabinet. Or just have a pop up shower tent and have an outdoor shower. Love the progress so far.

[@bell7860]

Y’all did an amazing job with the window! Things really seem to be moving fast and I’m super impressed. I will say I think a wet bath would be a better use of the space then a tiny couch. You just never know where you’re gonna end up when you’re traveling and it’d be good to have the option to shower in your own space.

[@skytechbits]

Whatever works for you is how you should design it of course but think of an option for an outdoor shower in the back just in case. Many people just do it that way and use it in remote areas and with a shower curtain too. The window came out great. It looks like the van came that way. Nice job on the build. Can't wait to see what is done by next week.

[@jrt4855]

My suggestion is tape out your layout so you can get a good idea of the length, width, height of each item to be installed. Or use a software program to do a 3d mock up. Key to any build is measurements = very little disappointments.

[@o.c.smithiii2626]

Y'all might even consider getting some cardboard boxes and literally boxing it out.

[@mikedistel5860]

I think quite a few mentions are about making your diner a little different and using it interchangeable with a couch. Leaving you room for a wet bath. Also having the sink and not the stove by the door. You good then have an extendable faucet for washing things outside. Build how you want of course. Just a couple of experienced changes.

[@MelissaMalzahn]

I agree you need a dinette it would be nice if you could get the other swivel chair and put a fold down table between the seats. You can always take the couch out to out a shower in or put one outside so you have it available. Don't forget to slat your bed so the mattress can breathe. Looks good.

[@carlapierle8623]

I think the dinette is a great idea, but can't help but feel that the space you want to use for a miniature couch would be put to better use as a storage closet. Maybe you can figure out a way to change your dinette to a couch when you want to use it as such.

[@crprovost]

How about keeping the sink near the door so you can use the faucet as an outdoor shower.

[@leokathysigrist5874]

Have you thought about a wet bath cassette toilet system such as what is in a popup tent trailer? On. Of the biggest selling points of an RV is not having to find a bathroom in the middle of the night.

[@agilityig]

Looks great guys! I love the idea of a dinette. Having a place to sit other than your bed is good for the build. My only concern (as someone who has built a van - and ended up remodeling it a year later 🤣) is that you might be doubling up on seating and sacrificing storage. The garage is mostly taken by bikes, electrical, and water tank. Here’s a thought - since you asked for suggestions. What if the table top of the dinette dropped down or converted somehow to make a little L shaped seating area for you so you could use the area between the dinette and bed as storage? That sliding door could be a nice place to put a screen (or act as the screen) for a projector. Loving your videos so much! Keep up the great work ❤️.

[@lovedfriend2020]

The panel they remove maybe a tabel or part of the dinette?

[@alicecain4851]

They could have a lagoon table on that too! Then their little couch could become the bathroom/shower!

[@robrose2524]

Damn, that window is beautiful, looks so high end. Nice choice!

[@REGRETLYSS]

you two are flying on this build!! And personally, I think tiny couch is a great idea. You'll use it all the time. :)

[@JimmyandNatalie]

Aw, thanks Lyss!! ❤️ It’s nice to know someone understands! 😅

[@randallphilips6552]

Super job layout looks good not sure about no shower but I understand space issues working together in the middle of the night is true love

[@patti8376]

When living in a small camper years ago we had no bathroom, only a toilet, so when we bathed we’d put our water in a dishpan and we’d start at the top and wash as far as possible and then we’d start at the bottom and was up as far as possible, and then we’d wash possible, 😂😂 Thought you’d get a lick out of that! Good luck on your build … we thoroughly enjoy watching you, whether your building or traveling.

[@williambranham6249]

EWW!

[@brianpeterson5559]

😂😂😂

[@UsPlusaBus]

Have you seen the layouts where the bed is on slats and you push it in during the day to reveal a couch and pull it out at night to sleep? We almost considered that for our bus but since we have the kiddos they would most likely just be napping randomly during the day and it would never be used haha Hit us up on IG if you want me to show you what I’m talking about. I think it would be perfect for your space.

[@janetculver7093]

So looks good. I was watching a lady the other day that had a square tub she pulls out when she wants a shower in her van. She used a Hola hoop and put a shower curtain on it. She used the kitchen faucet for water. That might be something you could do and not take up any space. So wish I could afford something.

[@bertkelly7650]

You might get a bunch of suggestions, but it boils down to you having to live in it. Good so far!

[@clifhicks719]

I think you should build out the floor under the table but make it where it will open with a shower pan in the bottom and install a shower head in the roog with a shower currtain on a loop. That way your dinette is multipurpose.

[@10jdaugh]

Can always add an outside shower using the two rear doors as walls and a shower curtain in between them. Looks great you two!☮️❤️

[@carolyncozine6375]

Kitchen sink closest to the door. Open backside to easily access the water, grey tank, pipes, electrical etc. Your doing Awesome! Your downsizing and stealthily look will be beneficial in countless ways!!! Keep up the great work!

[@barbarawatters4279]

I'd put the range closet to the door (overhang opening) for ventilation purposes.

[@WillysJonathanRoberts]

From someone who lives in Canada and somewhat doesn't have the heat climate issues the south gets, but we do get the cold weather temps. I am in the process of building out a van and I went insane on "R" value insulation mainly for the cold months, BUT, after the past heatwave we have experienced, the added insulation I have seriously helped with the heat inside the van. Unless you are digging into your walls for cupboards or storage areas, fill them with batting to increase the "R" value, imho....to each their own of course. Maybe that insulate will fill out the space but from where I sit it doesn't look like it will, I probably am wrong but if not.....spend a bit more and fill the spaces. Also spray foam works very well in the van structure beams especially if you aren't running wiring through them. Love your videos by the way, great couple with fantastic characters. Looking forward to the rest of the build. OH, I also demanded a shower but also sacrificed it for interior space....augh! I plan to hopefully hang a portable inside shower set up in my living area similar to yours. Hopefully. As said above, humans NEED a shower to stay odor free....lol.

[@mehmetucar3685]

Love 🙏☺️

[@eileenabacusbengalsbutler-6923]

Great job! About showers I am a disabled veteran quadrapelegic. No ty many accessible showers at truck stopd or bathrooms. There are many showers at truck stops for you. I use a female( urinal ordered on Amazon). I keep a wad of paper towels stuffed inside the top to avoid any odor. Easier then a toilet you can sit in a seat to use it pressing hard against you. Maybe not legal but I've dumped and rinsed it with large squirt bottle fulled with 1 part bleach 10 parts water. Or just water in a pinch. Dump in dirt or grass ( not someone's lawn ) lol. Bath wipes by Stryker are great for cowboy baths!!! They are thick and really wet no rinse necessary but I like to dry off! Have fun!!! Hope this helps!🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@vaasnaad]

The quick change was ADORABLE! 🙂

[@Rubster]

Is a tiny couch really needed, when you have the bed and the dinette for sitting?

[@louparry7721]

Hi guys, For the most part I think you are planning your layout pretty well. I don't think it would work for just anyone, but for you two, because you get along so well and you both have such beautiful temperaments, I'm sure that it will be a bit challenging , but you WILL make it work. One thing I have learned from watching your videos is you work well together, you respect each other and you both are very skilled and conscientious , taking caution as you move along. I think you guys are doing an amazing job and I wish you the very best. Hugs, Louise.

[@JimmyandNatalie]

Wow, thank you so much Louise!! You just made our day! 🥰

[@darryldrax606]

It looks good so far Jimmy and Natalie enjoying the videos and y'all take care and be safe and we'll see you next week

[@tamaraatkinson940]

Bigger bed! Wider bed! I’m old and need more space to sleep so I would sacrifice for more bed. I love the way you work together. Adorable.

[@sherriloneil2648]

I’ve seen with another van I saw they made a box which looked like a tub with the toilet in it with a lid over it. The put a track with hooks for the shower curtain that in circles the box if you need a shower or you can pull it out just enough to give you some privacy They had a hand helped shower wand I hope I explained it ok so you kinda get what I’m saying. What you are doing looks great. Keep going.

[@revfatman]

Here's my two cents worth. The Layout looks great! I'm not sure what your plans are for the couch as far as storage, but you could flex seal the inside of it and make the seat lift up to be a convertible shower. Then just put some magnets in the ceiling for a shower curtain. Everything just stores inside the couch when you are not using it and you would still have a shower. You guys have been living this lifestyle long enough to know what you need better than us. But, I have heard you mention showering many times in your videos which makes me think it would be useful! Ya'll are off to a great start! excited to see how it all pans out!

[@konflict1231]

Don't worry about weighing that van down, I've used one for work for about 5 years and I load entire pallets of engineered hardwood into it with about 10 buckets of glue,tools and 2 people. The van will handle the weight just fine

[@kellydale2633]

I think you are doing a great job! I can't wait to see how your plans develop into a sweet home on wheels! Have you considered putting one of those specialty tables in between your driver's seat and the passenger seat? Those tables swivel in several directions, and come apart easily too... If the 2 seats faced each other, you could both use the table in between you. When not using the table, move it out of the way and turn the seats towards the main living space. This way you would not need to have a separate dinette and bench, and could instead use that space for the couch. And that would leave you with enough space for a bathroom where you are intending to put a couch. So you could have all of the features, and not go without a regular bathroom. Just a thought... Enjoy your journey! ;-)

[@jemairmckay6862]

Great idea 👍👍

[@earnestburditt9867]

Everything looks great. You guys are doing very good. Note on shower. You can have a no build shower. One you use in I case you really need one or you are exposed to something you must treat for. (Very small inflated tub/pool. Loop to hang from ceiling or branches for a curtain.) If mounting inside hole in floor to drain onto ground or container. Pump up spray bottle for wash water. Not ideal for daily use but something if you need it.

[@keyplayer5]

You made some good choices on your build. It’s so fun watching! You guys are so cheery after staying up all night. 💕

[@donnanichols6838]

GOOD JOB J & N!!! you're cruising right along and gettin er done!!! Well done!!! See you next week!!! 🍃🤗🍃

[@marcpacey]

Layout sounds pretty awesome,toilet placement is INTERESTING ! Really enjoying the journey with you both.

[@brianpeterson5559]

Awesome, window especially thank you for sharing. Love the beginning how you jump down and clothes changes 😂

[@JimmyandNatalie]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@naytawalker9705]

hello, in my opinion a shower is super necessary, it is true that it takes up space, but it is worth it, what you can do is look for a disassembled integrated design, in a dual-use space. it could work. Greetings. 🤗

[@sallycrawford7205]

You two are doing a great job! I think you are off to a good start! I am a little afraid of not having a dedicated bath/toilet area. I worry about needs when one of you might be ill. But we are much older than you two. I know space is a premium. 😊

[@wegottafishdude]

🤘🏻😎🤘🏻 Awesome stuff guys I don’t know if this would work or not but standing facing the sliding door (from the inside)put the sink on the left so it’s closer to the door and maybe you can outfitted to have an outside shower just a thought

[@lizstone18]

Love what you are doing so far. Just a thought about the dinette to save some space. I have seen van builds where both driver and passenger seats swivel with a table between to make a dinette/work space.

[@sandygraetz5166]

I love this idea! … you are using seating already available and this means you are free to have space for a full size mattress with out skimping on overall double bed size and that will leave space for water tank and a shower toilet area with a door so you don’t have to leave if it’s raining for someone to do their business and you still have your privacy.

[@mehmetucar3685]

🙏😊

[@brianpeterson5559]

You guys did it again, I'm so impressed with you . The window looks great the framing looks great. I think the layout is a winner, you knew you had to get the most out of the space and looks like you nailed it. Be sure to take breaks when you need to, don't let the pressure be too much. Honestly it's like professional job 👍

[@JimmyandNatalie]

Thank you Brian! That's awesome to hear. 💚 We really appreciate your support! 😄

[@steveo601]

That window looks awesome!!!

[@donaldstenico5266]

I'm liking your layout. You guys are really doing a nice job. A person can tell this isn't your first rodeo. I know everyone is screaming about a shower toilet, but what about one of those pop up shower tents. Just a thought. I see lots of folks using them.

[@roadtriplover.]

@Jimmy and Natalie, The layout seems entirely reasonable to me, but Im single and tend to think like a single person. That layout would be super for one. While it may test your relationship for a while, you two seem to really work at that already, so good on ya! I would have concerns about not having facilities, so one suggestion I have is that you incorporate an outdoor shower, which would give you much more flexibility, imho. There are tons of ideas to be found on youtube and it does not need to involve another cut in the van, so why not have the peace of mind. I mean, living with someone who totally stinks is not fun. Just my 2cents. Re: the toilet, I would like to see a curtain that can be pulled around it when in use. The overhead fan would sufficiently exhaust. You could easily use one of the RV curtain strips, which are flexible and would attach in a horseshoe to your ceiling, without being obtrusive. The curtain could be a fun colorful or cleverly designed shower curtain, so very little weight add and very functional.

[@stephennowicki7158]

Looking good!

[@CraftsandMorewithDonnaJackson]

Wowzers! You guys are doing an awesome job. Its looking really good. I would put my toilet under the "living room" bench. Idk that I'd want it in the kitchen area. But y'all are so cute in your matching overalls lol. You're getting it done. Be safe.

[@dianewilliams317]

Love the dinette with a window! ❤️

[@lr6187]

Looking great! Suggestion is to use painter's tape to section each area out and visualize how much space and walkway you'll have. Also consider when there's a monsoon outside and you can't exit the van for whatever reason, can't kick your significant other out to use the restroom! ha! You guys are experienced builders in terms of having the bus! Just different dynamics come into play with the van which you already are aware of. Above all else, don't get too rushed by the stress of having a YT channel. Don't forget to continue experiencing life and enjoying each other's company during the build. It's the journey not the destination!

[@mrmotofy]

Just gotta get used to going with someone else there...sorry hun...turn the fan on

[@OurNotSoSeriousLife]

You guys are doing a fantastic job. Can’t wait to see nexts week’s episode.

[@mehmetucar3685]

❤️

[@mehmetucar3685]

Wow ❤️😃

[@dongeorge3283]

Would definitely include a toilet. While I was looking for a van that was a priority. Great for resale also.

[@SonomaSeaGlass]

I love your show!!❤❤❤❤ Thank you for the entertianment! You two are the best 😊❤❤

[@JimmyandNatalie]

Aw, thank you!! That means a lot to us! 💚🥰

[@jeepsandrvs]

Love the Bob the Builder outfits - it fits! We about a month until the delivery of our van. I admire that you are tackling it yourself - if I were your age, I probably would too.....good luck. Can you build it - yes you can!

[@jeepsandrvs]

Window looks great BTW! If it is in the budget a slider system for your garage would be awesome.

[@candybrown3785]

I think the sink should be next to door instead of stove so you could have the faucet to pull out and shower with outside the door or I seen someone make a shower curtain right at entrance of door with drain to even stand in Van while showering. Alot of 🆒 ideas 💡 from seeing others that don't have a so called built in shower.

[@rogerbmcdaniel]

Although it is 100% a personal choice as to what works best for you, I totally agree with omitting a walled-off space for something you might use for 10 or 15 minutes a day, particularly in a vehicle that small. You seem to be designing your van to work for you both, and that's the way it should be. You'll never grow as a person if you refuse to engage in new experiences. Look forward to your continuing the journey.

[@carmenmarcinkiewicz7149]

The two of you are such a fantastic team!

[@nina_g6857]

Wow nice job 👍🏽 can’t believe that beam is just in there w/couple small welds & foam insulation 🤔hope u saved that piece of metal make a table out of it outside or something 😀 watch Dome Life for tips on shower solutions !

[@kathyinwv250]

Rig a little wet bay under the bed and use a an outdoor shower between the 2 back door when open. I've seen others with vans do that. It's also great for rinsing sand/dirt off feet/body after a walk/ swim. Have you thought about a power lift bed? I've no idea the cost of the mechanism but they sure do give you a lot of extra living space.

[@tippybird]

You guys are so gifted! God bless and hope it all goes well and your bus sells soon

[@mikemanjo2458]

Man! Y'all are making great progress. The lighting is fine...don't worry about it. Y'all are so amazing. I saw Natalie leaning out when Jimmy was spraying the adhesive...y'all need to wear a mask to keep all those chemicals (and paint when you get there) out of your lungs....please!!!! I love that you're putting the e-bikes in the garage! So much better than on the back. We have a dinette, but leave in as a bed all the time. We're thinking of a loveseat with removable table/lagun mount in place of a permanent table. Y'all are amazing, I'm sure you'll do something really creative that works great for you. Y'all have a great week! Can't wait to see what progress you make this week! Love from SC, Jane ❤🙏

[@lorraineeagle4009]

Love the layout. I personally would have to have a shower. I'm not 1 to go for public showers. But I would try to do a composting toilet.But I'm an old lady. I like that you are trying something new. You are doing a great job. Love, Respect and Blessings

[@MrCarl312]

12:44 Angle grinder with a 1/16 inch cutoff wheel is the tool of choice.

[@sofiafirman2552]

I love your layout ideas! If it was me building the van I would use the couch space for a shower/enclosed bathroom, and I would think of a more convertible solution for the dinette so that it could maybe convert to a little L shaped couch. But of course its your build and you are gonna be the ones who are going to be living in the space so the most important thing is that you prioritize what is most important for you two to have in your home ❤️

[@cindymartin1936]

My suggestion is to have a fixed toilet and shower. Especially if you are not going to camp in campgrounds. I wish you guys all the best!!

[@glenradtke8358]

Great video! You do you on the build and we'll keep watching and see how it turns out. Thanks for sharing the process and the little details you're sharing. Keep living your dream!

[@barbaramena2377]

I still think about the shower I think you will miss it after having one , but ones I have saw our like a box with your toilet and you pull up the curtain and attach to the ceiling and it's all one just let dry before packing back up in the box still not taking alot of room it's all contained a thought ☺😊

[@BrianandAor]

Love your space. Created as you wish you're the one that will be living in it. An absolute joy to watch you both transform this build

[@JimmyandNatalie]

Thank you so much! 😄

[@mikeellindonut2004]

Well is the bus sold yet?, Love the build, doing a great job

[@andreatruelove9693]

Looks great but boondocking and not showering is going to suck. You don’t want to have to drive in every couple of days to shower. I would have to have a wet bath and couch then install a pop up table some how.

[@hazeleyes2086]

Love watching your build, you guys can do want you want to. It's your life and enjoy what you make of it.

[@kennethjacobs5976]

You are very smart,Working at nite ! Looks good !

[@gregprior8271]

You might place the sink next to the door. Get a sink with shallow side and a deep side. Then put your toilet under the shallow side. For privacy use a round shower curtain rod hung from ceiling with shower Curtain that Can be hidden away when not in use. Wish you two lots of luck on the build.

[@azulagirl325]

Can’t wait to see it all come together. I kinda agree with what some others said. To put in the tiny bathroom instead of the tiny couch. Since you’ll have the dinette area for seating and working. And the bed for lounging and relaxing. Curious to see how it all comes together!!

[@juliewilliams2717]

Looks great..definitely outdoor shower from the kitchen sink..not sure if I could put my toilet were I eat everyday…

[@christalcherry3426]

Make it yours do it how you want. I have seen a cool bathroom in Pop-up tents and I know Emon and Bec did one in there Van build. If you have not seen that you might go look up Emmon and Bec and watch there van build. Its cool becuase it is one of the counters that converts to a shower and restroom area. So you still have all the space and some to be honest. But I really do love watching your guys build.

[@utahjag]

Thank You again for sharing your journey with us! Curious... How much do you think you will use the "tiny couch"? I mean, you will watch TV sitting up in bed with the TV on one of the walls above the bed, right? I would think the passenger seat swivel would accomplish the sitting area of the tiny couch with no extra space. Anyway, would a sit down toilet/shower be a space more used? Like framed in, but small and short, maybe cabinets outside on top of the shower? I think privacy at night when the other is in bed may be more important than a tiny couch is all. There is also still my idea of putting plumbing for a shower in the back so when you open the back doors, a circle curtain would contain a stand-up shower. Thanks Again!

[@forestsky7064]

Doing a very similar project! The style, will be smaller, screen windows, all around the back area (I love fresh air cross venting optional). And keeping everything light weight. A comfortable large mattress directly above the wheel well flowing back to front, probably not side to side. The roof fan vents, will not be the rain vent kind, just lower regular clear fanned manual vents. It'll be a lower bed (less "garage" much more "open space" ...even less cabinets, maybe a long small shelf. No shower (wash cloth n plastic basin which can multitask...yet community center memberships with pools, hot tubs, showers, etc.).....lots of multitasking. Simply use a double dresser attaching to a wall, with a countertop on top if it. Then there'd be plenty of drawers, and all the same 'light color painted' with a trim color. Going to use an "isolater electric system," and only 2 deep cycle 'vented together outside' batteries, set up behind the drivers seat and very easily accessible, plus maybe 1 portable foldable solar panel stored in the smaller "garage." The passenger seat will be swivel. There will be a small dinette set up, maybe a small booth style? For the ceiling and viewable wall areas, I'll use something flexible, very light, thin, and inexpensive to cover walls. Of course...all this is in keeping things lightweight, and simple. Similar to you on all the insulation. Then, as time tells, any adjustments, improvements, can be done. As the simple, open, non-cluttered, open style, is flowing, with changes being made anytime. Like to keep things very open space oriented, and simple, plus easily flexible. I like a lot of open space, and natural ventilation. No need for a freezer or refrig. I shouldn't drink colas, yet, can get a McD's iced cola for a dollar, and a mocha frappe for 2 bucks if I want those. Plus, I can cook things like rice, potatoes, all kinds of "pannini style" sandwiches, omelets, fresh fish, saitan meaty veg-style, and many protein type veggie (non-spoiling foods), and lots of fruit (cantaloupe, watermelon, honey dessert, grapes, etc., etc.), grilled fresh breads, rolls, nuts, pb+j, canned tuna, cheese lasts several days, etc., and, I actually like Taco Bell, and many other simple choices. I simply don't really need a refrig/freezer.. it's, okay. If I feel like having one eventually, then okay. I am somewhat social, and like being around towns I frequent, like Boulder, Sedona, Santa Cruz, Arcata, Satellite Beach, from Seattle, to SFO, to DIA, to many Florida Atlanta Ocean beaches to Pacific Ocean beaches. Vanlife, for me, over 20 years, is mostly about freedom... including simplicity, and lots of nature. Might have a small (portable) woodburning stove (with a front glass for ambiance) and easy set-up roof stack for fun-heated ambiance! And, vented propane to warm things up while awake and no-hassling with firewood late at night. Keeping this safe, minimal, cozy, and can use to sleep if wanted...and properly vented (just need about 12 square inches cross-fresh air). Good bedding for night time. You two, Jimmy and Natalie are so GREAT together! This, is a treasure...and rare, yet, possible. Anywhooo ... you two are doing AMAZING since you first started ... AMAZING👍👍👍

[@MrStingraybernard]

Looks great so far 👍

[@vynidalopes251]

Happy to see the progress coming along guys. I’ve been seeing more and more van builds installing a hidden toilet and a shower hooked up towards the back. Whatever you decide to do, I’m sure it’ll turn out great 👍

[@florathebus5873]

Loving the matching overalls ❤️

[@walkpastime778]

The thumbnail is so creative. another level.

[@kathypoindexter4153]

Congratulations on starting out on your Van build I really like the layout I like the window over the dining area I always see windows over the kitchen area but we're you put it is awesome it's going to be so cozy and comfortable and it's your new home and you both are still young and can explore the world take your time and build it the way you both want it you both are smart building at night when it's a little cooler Tysm for sharing your build of your new home I'm watching y'all from East Tennessee "The Smokey Mountains" Take care! Kathy! 🤠 😎 🤗

[@carjam49]

You two are such hard workers. Great job. Can't wait to see your next video.

[@JimmyandNatalie]

Thank you so much!

[@mehmetucar3685]

🙏☺️

[@bookathevanman9948]

Don't let people get in your heads! If you are happy with a floorplan that's all that matters! I am in an Astro Van with 36 square feet of living space including what's under my bed for storage. So I dream of a shower, and poop in a bucket. Lol As small as it is, I love my van! It has everything I need including my 13 pound dog. It's tight but it's home. For the time being I'm stuck on east coast but dreaming of hitting west of the Mississippi ASAP! Hopefully our paths will cross someday! Keep enjoying the life!