Van and truck conversions seem to be getting more and more elaborate.
With luxurious cabinetry, intricate details, and mechanical modifications, the classic camper van has become an output for designers and builders.
Brian Daigneault of Solid Wood Worx not only converts vans and trucks into livable camping spaces, but his carpentry skills and attention to detail has made him a rock star in the conversion world. He explains:
“I got into doing van and truck conversions because I am a carpenter by trade. My father is a contractor so I grew up with tools in my hands before I could walk. Ever since I could remember I was always building something when I was younger whether it was a little ramp for my friends and I to jump our bikes off or a treehouse.”
Brian’s videos take you on a tour of each of his projects.
He’s only been doing van and truck conversions for about six months, but already has about 10 conversions under his tool belt. His Facebook page and YouTube videos showcase all the conversion details and a few things really stand out.
Many of his designs feature creative storage solutions.
This includes simple and clean designs, intricate joinery skills, and fun storage options. Most of the conversions include a single or double sleeping platform, pull out cabinetry, storage for electrical components, and even flooring and carpet. Daigneault will take client ideas and create the best design for a vehicle’s space.
Many clients ask for platform beds and roll out storage.
Brian adds:
“I like doing the vans conversions, there is just so much room for possibilities and I enjoy seeing the customer’s dream design come to life! Trucks and SUVs are fun as well and take less time, but the builds usually don’t get too intricate or fancy. It’s still fun to see what is possible.”
Solid Wood Worx designs for both vans and trucks.
Brian started with a friend’s van conversion. He filmed the design and put it on YouTube. The video got so many hits that his email inbox has been full of requests for more conversions. The biggest challenge for him is to try to make use of every bit of space and keeping everything straight and square—a real challenge for a carpenter.
“The inside of every van, truck or SUV is nowhere near straight! So putting down a good base of wood on the floor to build up from has been my go to. From there I will work from the middle out taking dimensions to make every symmetrical. It’s near impossible to try and take dimensions off the wall or side panel of a vehicle because there are so many contours.”
After the challenges are remedied, the most fun part is when things fit in just perfectly.
“That is a pretty good feeling after all the work you put into it—making the van look like it came from the factory like that.”