Meet Lily, a standout Volkswagen Crafter LWB conversion by the talented team at VANHAUS Conversions. While every conversion they release into the wild is completely bespoke, one thing remains consistent—their unparalleled attention to detail. Lily is no exception.
In this stunning roving home, they prove that it’s absolutely possible to fit two double beds into a long-wheelbase van… without resorting to expensive electric lift beds or elevating roofs.
You hear that and immediately think—something has to give, right? Is the kitchen tiny? No, it’s massive. Is there a shower? Hell yeah! Okay, so the living area must be cramped? Not even close.
VANHAUS Conversions has somehow managed to tailor the layout to include it all: two double beds, a spacious kitchen, a statement shower room, and an inviting living space—all within the footprint of a VW Crafter. It’s a masterclass in design, where functionality and style don’t just coexist—they thrive.
Let’s step inside…
Base Vehicle Specification
↠ Manufacturer: Volkswagen
↠ Model: Crafter CR35 Startline TDI
↠ Year: 2019
↠ Fuel Type: Diesel
↠ Body Style: Long wheel base (LWB) H2 (high roof)
↠ Engine Size: 1.968cc
↠ Converted by: VANHAUS Conversions
VW Crafter Campervan Interior
Lily’s interior exudes rustic luxe, seamlessly blending natural textures with sophisticated, smooth finishes.
The rich wood tones, seen in the bespoke cabinetry and the statement wall in the sleeping area, create a cosy, cabin-like ambiance.
These are perfectly complemented by soft sage green cabinetry, matte textures, and metro tiles adding a contemporary edge to the design.
Brass fixtures and subtle lighting elevate the space, while the balance of earthy materials and refined details, whisper charm and elegance in equal measure.
Van Conversion Layout
Lily’s layout is a showcase of spatial optimisation.
The design flows seamlessly from front to back, starting with easy access to the cab (we love the little door!) and leading into a cosy L-shaped living area that doubles as a second sleeping space.
The spacious kitchen is cleverly designed with an extendable countertop for added versatility, while the standout feature—a statement shower cubicle—is as beautiful as it is practical.
Thoughtful storage solutions are woven throughout, from the wardrobe to the lightweight basket storage and over-cab compartment.
At the rear, a fixed double bed provides a restful retreat, tying together this well-planned and beautifully executed layout.
Key features:
↠ Access door to the cab
↠ L-shaped living area with removable table, converts to bed (sleeps 2)
↠ Spacious kitchen with extendable countertop
↠ Statement shower cubicle with removable toilet
↠ Ample storage, including wardrobe, garage, and over-cab storage
↠ Fixed bed (sleeps 2)
Seating & Sleeping
The sleeping and seating arrangements in this Volkswagen Crafter campervan prove that smart design can maximise both comfort and functionality in a compact space.
At the rear is a fixed double bed, with a wall-mounted TV that turns this cosy retreat into the perfect relaxation hub. Or, in this conversion, it goes a step further, transforming the sleeping area into a full-on gaming haven, complete with a Nintendo Switch™ ready for action!
Key features:
↠ Removable swivel table
↠ Fixed double bed (sleeps 2)
↠ Dining/workspace with bench seating (converts into bed #2)
↠ Wall-mounted TV above the fixed bed
🔍 Click photos to expand
Adaptability takes centre stage in the dining and seating area. With a removable swivel table, the space is equally suited to remote work, dining, or simply chilling out.
What’s really amazing is that the bench seating effortlessly converts into the second double bed, creating a versatile sleeping solution. Together, these elements reflect an exceptional balance of practicality and style.
Plumbing & Bathroom
The shower room setup in this Volkswagen Crafter campervan features bold, statement panelling with a swirling green and white pattern that adds a unique touch of character. Paired with copper and brass fixtures, the aesthetic feels warm and luxurious, transforming a simple wetroom into a spa-like retreat.
At the heart of this plumbing system is the Imass instant hot water boiler. Fast becoming a signature move from VANHAUS Conversions – we also saw this in ‘Katy’, a Mercedes Sprinter camper – this high-quality, German-made appliance delivers hot water on demand, powered by 12V electricity and gas, with a 25L underslung gas tank ensuring energy efficiency.
Key features:
↠ Shower/wetroom with a portable toilet
↠ Statement panelling
↠ Copper and brass fixtures
↠ Water recirculation system – Imass boiler
🔍 Click photos to expand
Kitchen
The layout of this fully-equipped kitchen is linear, with a generous wooden countertop that extends across the side door, creating an unparalleled amount of workspace.
The unique placement of the fridge beneath the opposing countertop might seem unconventional at first glance, but the addition of the flip-up extension connects the two areas perfectly, delivering a spacious and efficient setup for meal prep.
From the gleaming brass fittings of the square sink to the 2-burner gas hob and Thetford oven, this kitchen is fully equipped for vanlife.
Deep drawer storage ensures all essentials are within reach, while the Thetford compressor fridge keeps ingredients fresh for off-grid adventures.
Key features:
↠ Linear kitchen with countertop extension
↠ Square sink with brass fittings
↠ Wooden countertop
↠ 2-burner gas hob
↠ Thetford oven
↠ Thetford compressor fridge
↠ Deep drawer storage for kitchen essentials
🔍 Click photos to expand
Storage Solutions
The storage in this VW Crafter camper is a masterclass in clever space optimisation and thoughtful design.
From overhead shelves equipped with lightweight woven baskets to the substantial rear garage, every area is utilised to its fullest potential. The floor-to-ceiling wardrobes provide ample space for hanging or folded clothing, while the bench seats and kitchen drawers keep daily essentials within arm’s reach.
Going beyond the obvious, one thing we’d like to highlight is the overhead shelf that slightly extends into the side door’s opening—a subtle yet ingenious tweak to maximise space without compromising functionality – and the over-cab (headliner) storage is wonderfully executed, too.
Key features:
↠ Overhead storage shelves with lightweight woven baskets
↠ Rear garage with generous storage space
↠ 2 x floor-to-ceiling wardrobes (one with shelves, one without)
↠ Rear garage
↠ Bench seat storage
↠ Kitchen drawers
↠ Over-cab storage
↠ Yakima RocketBox Pro rooftop cargo box
🔍 Click photos to expand
Lighting
The lighting in this van is thoughtfully designed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere while enhancing functionality.
Recessed ceiling spotlights provide even illumination throughout the space, offering excellent visibility at night. The under-shelf LED lighting in the kitchen adds a stylish and practical touch, making sure that the countertop and cooking area are well-lit for meal preparation.
In the bedroom, reading lights create a relaxing ambiance.
Key features:
↠ Recessed ceiling spotlights
↠ Under-shelf LED lighting in the kitchen
↠ Reading lights in the bedroom
Heating
This van stays at optimum temperature all year-round, thanks to a powerful Whale Heat Air Underfloor Space Heater 5kW (gas and electric twin outlet). Super quiet, reliable, and space-saving, this is an efficient source of reliable warmth no matter the season.
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Volkswagen Crafter Conversion Exterior
The timeless design of the 2017-2023 VW Crafter remains beautifully intact, showcasing its slick, clean lines and understated appeal. Rather than altering this iconic look, Lily’s exterior upgrades focus purely on practicality.
From a sturdy roof rack (with mounted solar panels) and ladder access, to the windows and skylights, every addition enhances the van’s functionality without compromising its clean aesthetic.
Windows & Ventilation
Featuring windows to both sides, plus one barn door window at the rear, each is fully opening, ensuring excellent ventilation, while integrated blinds offer privacy and shade, making them a practical choice for van life.
Internally, this camper conversion features handcrafted wooden window reveals, a standout design element that speaks volumes about VANHAUS Conversions‘ attention to detail.
Key features:
↠ Double-glazed windows, opening with blinds (2)
↠ Rear barndoor window, opening with blind (1)
🔍 Click photos to expand
Skylights & Fans
The dual skylights in this VW Crafter van are a transformative feature, flooding the living area and bedroom with natural light and creating an open, airy atmosphere. They not only enhance the sense of space inside the van but also provide excellent ventilation, making it easy to regulate airflow on warm days.
Key features:
↠ Skylights (2) fitted to living area and bedroom
🔍 Click photos to expand
Other Exterior Upgrades
This van comes equipped with a range of thoughtfully designed exterior enhancements that maximise storage and utility.
For starters, there’s a 3-bar roof rack, complete with roller fits; this ensures ease of loading and unloading gear.
Affixed to the roof rack, a Yakima RocketBox Pro rooftop cargo box provides additional storage, while the rear ladder makes accessing the roof easy.
Additionally, a Thule awning transforms the outdoor area into a extra living space, perfect for relaxing or cooking in the open air.
Lastly, the colour-matched faceplate for the Imass boiler seamlessly integrates into the exterior aesthetic, maintaining the clean, professional look of the van.
Key features:
↠ 3 bar roof-rack with roller fits
↠ Yakima RocketBox Pro rooftop cargo box
↠ Rear ladder
↠ Thule awning
↠ Colour-matched faceplate for the Imass boiler
🔍 Click photos to expand
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Off-Grid Capability
This van is equipped with a robust off-grid power system designed to support sustainable living.
The combination of high-capacity solar panels and a reliable LiFePO4 leisure battery ensures a steady supply of renewable energy, making extended off-grid adventures possible.
Advanced power management systems, including the Victron MultiPlus-II inverter and MPPT controller, optimise energy use, while the underslung LPG tank adds versatility for cooking and heating.
A notable feature is the wall-mounted TV, this is the first time we’ve seen this – we’ve seen a couple of projectors, but not a TV. We’re fans – it looks slick.
Key features:
↠ 460Ah Fogstar Drift PRO LiFePO4 Leisure Battery
↠ 590W Perlight solar panels (2 x 295W)
↠ MPPT controller
↠ Victron Orion-Tr Smart – Isolated DC-DC Charger
↠ Victron Lynx Power In 1000A Busbar
↠ Victron Phoenix Inverter Smart 1600VA – 5000VA
↠ 25L LPG tank (underslung)
Vanlife Verdict
This VW Crafter camper by VANHAUS Conversions is the epitome of craftsmanship and intelligent design, effortlessly combining elegance with functionality. From the sleek, modern aesthetic to the impressive array of off-grid capabilities, every inch of this van has been thoughtfully planned to maximise comfort, style, and practicality. It’s a testament to what’s possible when expert craftsmanship meets a passion for adventure.
Vanlife Hub Team
Internally, what truly sets this van apart is its versatility and meticulous build quality. The luxurious interior, complete with bespoke wooden finishes, flexible layout, and impressive storage credentials, is a paragon of campervan design.
Externally, the practical upgrades mean this camper has everything you need to live your best vanlife.
Our final verdict?
VANHAUS Conversions have created a van that doesn’t just meet expectations but exceeds them at every turn. It’s perfect for full-time vanlifers, adventurous couples, or even small families who crave freedom with all the home comforts on board.
If you’re searching for a top-tier conversion that balances practicality with sophistication, this is the ultimate choice for life on the road.
🌟 We love this incredible Volkswagen Crafter conversion – an impressively flexible creation fresh out of VANHAUS Conversions‘ workshop. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
Please note: Vanlife Hub’s campervan reviews are unbiased and unpaid, offering genuine insights into the intricacies of vanlife conversions. Check out more reviews: Campervan Tours and get in touch if you’d like to be featured!
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For More VW Crafter Conversion Ideas…
If you’re looking to build or commission a campervan conversion, check-out these for more camper van conversion ideas:
Luxury MAN TGE Camper with Elevating Roof Sleeps 4
Rustic Citroen Relay LWB Family Campervan Sleeps 3
FAQs about VW Crafter Campervan Conversions
Can a VW Crafter really accommodate two double beds without compromising on space?
Yes, a VW Crafter can accommodate two double beds without compromising on space.
The key lies in a clever layout that makes the most of the van’s generous dimensions. A raised rear bed can double as storage space underneath, often called a “garage,” while a convertible seating area can serve as the second bed – as we’ve seen in this van tour. This simple yet effective approach allows for ample sleeping arrangements while leaving room for a functional kitchen, living space, and storage solutions.
Alternatives are to add an elevating roof or pop-top (as we saw in this MWB VW Crafter camper), to opt for an electric lift bed similar to the one in Polly – an apartment-style Mercedes Sprinter campervan, or to invest in a rooftop tent like the Tentbox on ‘The Lion’ – a showstopping MAN TGE campervan (incidentally, the Crafter and MAN TGE are very similar vans).
Is the VW Crafter LWB suitable for full-time van life?
Yes, the VW Crafter LWB is the ideal camper for full-time van life. The L3 H2 2017-2023 model in this van tour has an internal length of approx. 4.85 meters, width of 1.83 metres, and an interior height of 2.5 meters, which is a generous space for creating a well-equipped home on wheels. Its size allows for versatile and standard layouts, including full kitchen setups, bathroom facilities, comfortable sleeping areas, and ample storage solutions.
In addition the layout, it’s important to consider the van’s off-grid capabilities. Features like solar panels, a large leisure battery, battery to battery charging, and efficient heating options will support self-sufficiency.
Whether you’re cooking, staying warm in winter, or powering devices, the Crafter VW van is able to offer a comfortable vanlife experience. If you’d like a slightly smaller base van, the MWB Crafter is a strong option, or smaller again is the VW Transporter T6.
What are the key advantages of living off-grid in a campervan?
The key advantages of living off-grid in a campervan include unparalleled freedom to get off the beaten track, to make cost savings, and to gain independence.
Vanlife – whether in a motorhome or campervan – allows you to travel to remote locations, wake up to new views every day, and explore at your own pace. Additionally, living off-grid reduces reliance on traditional utilities, often leading to lower living expenses while embracing a more sustainable lifestyle.
This independence fosters self-reliance, with features like solar power and off-grid heating systems enabling you to thrive anywhere. Whether you’re seeking adventure, solitude, or flexibility, off-grid campervan living offers a lifestyle that’s as liberating as it is rewarding… But it’s not without drama – check-out our founder’s story about what happened when her campervan conversion needed a new engine.
What makes the VW Crafter stand out among other campervan bases?
The VW Crafter stands out among other campervan bases due to its reliability, classic styling, and adaptability for conversions.
Known for its robust German engineering, the VW Crafter base offers outstanding durability and dependable performance, making it a trusted choice for motorhomes. Its sleek yet timeless design not only looks great on the road but also serves as a blank canvas that seamlessly adapts to a wide variety of camper layouts.
The Crafter’s spacious interior allows for creative and efficient conversions, but one thing to keep in mind is weight. The VW Crafter and Mercedes Sprinter are both heavy vans, and this can be restrictive. While the reputation of the Peugeot Boxer campervan and the Citroen Relay camper may not be as good, they are considerably lighter, so have a greater payload to play with.
However, thanks to VW’s reputation for quality, the Crafter is a top choice for adventurers and professional converters alike.
How do you stay warm in a campervan during winter?
Staying warm in a campervan during winter involves overcoming the challenge of generating heat efficiently in a low-power environment.
Heating systems typically require significant energy, so good insulation is essential to retain warmth and reduce energy consumption. Properly insulating the van’s walls, ceiling, and floors minimises heat loss and ensures that heating systems work effectively.
For heat, campervans rely on efficient, low-power solutions such as diesel heaters, which are economical and use the vehicle’s fuel.
Woodburners can add a cosy, off-grid charm, while LPG-powered heaters provide reliable warmth without heavy electricity demands.
Combining these systems with insulation creates a comfortable, energy-efficient living space even in colder climates.
What are the benefits of an Imass boiler in a campervan?
The benefits of an Imass boiler in a campervan lie in its efficiency, reliability, and compact design.
The high-performance system we see in this van provides instant hot water, making it ideal for off-grid living and year-round travel.
Powered by 12V electricity and LPG, it delivers a consistent and energy-efficient hot water supply without drawing excessive power, which is critical in a campervan setup.
