About The Artist’s Abode Van Conversion
The Artist’s Abode was built for a watercolor artist, Lois, who wanted to spend weeks at a time on the road, painting landscapes. She provided ORU with a 2019 Ram ProMaster, 136” wheel base, for the build.
Initially, Lois expected to use stock cabinets purchased from a hardware-store. Tony opted to build custom cabinets using his CNC router so they would be molded to the curvature of the van — and the custom cabinets were no more expensive than stock cabinets.
Outcome
Lois was thrilled with ORU’s build of her van. The fit and finish and overall quality and appearance were exactly what she desired. There was ample cabinet space, and she is currently traveling the U.S. happily and securely in her van.
Lois said, “Tony is reliable and hard-working. He's a meticulous craftsman who listened to my needs and was able to quickly turn out a design specific to me and at a reasonable price. Most importantly, his easy-going nature made this a smooth process.”
Required Features
Ample storage for an easel, paint supplies, food cooler, and clothes
A bed, low and permanently placed
Cost-conscious design and build
Ample storage
The van contains numerous storage cabinets, including a large clothing cabinets. Storage for art supplies is located in the garage area of the van, accessible through the rear doors.
Low, permanent bed
The platform bed uses a modified foam queen size mattress.
Cost-conscious design and build
The build was minimalist, prioritizing function and performance. The flooring is comprised of foam tiles, for example, providing warmth and comfort with a low price tag.
Additional Features
Steel sub-frame to very securely anchor all cabinetry
1” insulation under floor
Custom built cabinetry that fits the curvature of the van
Adjustable shelving in all cabinetry
Cassette toilet
Upholstered wall in sleeping area to provide feeling of warmth
Ram LED light package installed after build