Setting up the interior ...

The interior of our 2015 Spacevan is different to that of the 2006 model we first owned.  Our earlier one had an interior kitchen with lots of storage in two stainless steel cabinets, located on either side of the trailer. (The old gas fridge wasn't used and Nick removed it to create an extra cupboard space).

In contrast, our 2015 camper has one low bench seat on one side (it was formerly the lower bunk of an earlier fitout) and just a small storage box next to the bed on the other side.

As our bed runs across the end of the camper, there is a lot of empty floor space and a real lack of convenient storage.

The layout difference between the two vans was highlighted during our recent Chinchilla trip.  

Since coming home, there has been more talk about what might be a better layout option, within budget.  We've researched a few possibilities but think we've now found a winner.

The first part of the plan was to remove the former bottom bunk, frame and all.  The old frame will be shortened to make a smaller box, which fits over the wheel arch and diesel heater - to became a bed for Bandit.  We have foam that will be cut to size and I'll make a cover.

We tested the diesel heater during one of our backyard camping nights last year - and were quite warm but found the unit quite noisy, though that seems a common complaint.

Bunnings stock a range of garage storage units and we ordered one of the extra-large drawer units to try in the camper.  Our plan seems do-able, so we've now ordered a second unit.  

There has been a lot of opening and closing the camper, to determine the best placement of the drawer(s) on the first side.  The units are stackable and will bolt together.

A very pleasant young guy visited yesterday to quote on fitting a 12-volt system inside the Spacevan. (There was one in the past but most of it had been removed prior to our purchase).  

Given the planned 12-volt wiring work, Nick won't install drawers on the driver's side of the Spacevan just yet.

We expect to receive a "shopping list" of components soon and will work on acquiring those.  Once everything is sourced, we'll deliver the van to a local address so the work can be done (probably over the course of a week or so).  We're planning a longer trip toward the end of the year and are looking forward to having 12-volt options while away.  How good will that be?!