Nestled within the unassuming frame of a long wheelbase Mercedes Sprinter, ‘Katy’ epitomises handcrafted elegance on wheels.
Created by the expert team at VANHAUS Conversions, this bespoke Mercedes Sprinter van is the ultimate expression of unique, artisan craftsmanship. From the rich, warm wood-clad interior to the intricately designed copper backsplash, every detail of this home on wheels whispers precision and perfection.
Built to be a full-time home, this travel van exemplifies VANHAUS’ ethos of ‘bespoke every time,’ showing just how far custom design can go in transforming a vehicle into a fully realised, roving home.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Base Vehicle Specification
↠ Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz
↠ Model: Sprinter 315 Progressive Cdi
↠ Year: 2021
↠ Fuel: Diesel
↠ Body style: High Roof Panel Van
↠ Transmission: Manual
↠ Engine: 1950 cc
↠ Euro Status: 6ci
↠ Converted by: VANHAUS Conversions
Sprinter Campervan Interior
The interior of ‘Katy’ is the epitome of cosy sophistication, evoking the warmth of a cabin with a touch of modern luxury.
The interior space is adorned with natural wood tones throughout—from the ceiling to the custom cabinetry—bringing a rich, earthy feel. Copper accents, including an eye-catching, oxidised backsplash, add an artisanal, rustic charm that sets this conversion apart.
The vibrant palette, punctuated by the warmth of wood and the subtle glow of brass and copper fixtures, creates a harmonious balance between elegance and homeliness.
Decorative elements, like woven storage baskets, add both function and flair, enhancing the Sprinter van’s inviting, handcrafted appeal.
Van Conversion Layout
The layout of this Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a masterclass in space optimisation, thoughtfully designed to ensure that every inch serves a purpose without compromising on comfort or style.
Entering the van, you’re greeted by an open, airy galley kitchen that stretches along one side, allowing plenty of room for cooking.
The kitchen seamlessly flows into a spacious dining area at the front, where a convertible table and bench seating create a relaxed lounge vibe—perfect for meals, work, or simply unwinding.
At the rear, a dedicated sleeping area features a full-sized bed, giving the van a true “bedroom” feel, complete with soft lighting and privacy.
Clever storage solutions are built into every corner, from overhead cabinets to hidden compartments, ensuring there’s a place for everything.
The layout’s thoughtful flow and carefully separated spaces make Katy feel like a real home, designed to handle the demands of full-time van life without missing a beat.
Key features:
↠ Table on Lagun table leg swivel system
↠ Sofa-style corner seating
↠ Fixed bed (comfortably sleeps 2)
↠ Shower room with removable compost toilet
↠ Spacious kitchen with countertop extension
↠ Ample storage with overhead, drawer, garage, and bench seating storage
↠ Access hatch to cab
↠ Panoramic windows
↠ Powerful off-grid power set-up
Seating & Sleeping
The seating and sleeping areas in this Sprinter van are all about comfort, and the quality of the finish on the handcrafted wooden cabinetry is like nothing we’ve seen before.
The bench seating features beautifully crafted herringbone-style upholstery and a convenient swivel table, creating a comfy spot for dining or working.
At the rear, there’s a fixed bed (east to west formation), and space has been optimised thanks to the alcove at the header and window at the footer.
The bed frame in this van is a true work of craftsmanship, constructed using TIG welding—a precise and high-quality welding technique. TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding uses a tungsten electrode to create a clean and strong weld, making it ideal for custom metal fabrication.
For VANHAUS Conversions, this capability means they can create bespoke metalwork tailored to each build, ensuring both durability and design flexibility. Whether it’s a sturdy bed frame or other intricate metal elements, their in-house expertise adds a level of precision and customisation that’s hard to match.
Key features:
↠ Table on Lagun table leg swivel system
↠ Upholstered bench seating
↠ Fixed bed (sleeps 2)
↠ Warm, handcrafted wooden cabinetry
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Plumbing & Bathroom
Could this Sprinter van have one of the largest shower room set-ups we’ve ever seen? We think so! With a whopping 150 litres of fillable water storage, you can spend multiple days in off-grid, and you won’t be short of space to get clean either – the size of this wetroom is impressive.
Furthermore, we love how the fish scale wall panelling and wooden accents give the shower room an elegant feel. The exposed copper piping not only adds an industrial edge, but is another example of the quality and durability of materials selected for this build.
In addition to the shower, a sleek, space-saving Trelino composting toilet tucks neatly beneath some useful towel storage.
With carefully curated materials and efficient design, the bathroom in this camper is as practical as it is stylish.
Key features:
↠ Fish scale-patterned wall panelling
↠ Trelino composting toilet
↠ Copper pipe accents
↠ Fresh water tank (150L)
↠ Water recirculation system – Imass boiler
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We should also mention that the Imass instant hot water boiler in this van is also pretty remarkable. This high-quality, safety-certified German-made appliance is designed for efficient and reliable hot water on the go.
Powered by 12V electricity and gas, with a 25L underslung gas tank, the Imass boiler in this conversion delivers an energy-efficient hot water supply, providing instant hot water at the touch of a button almost year-round. In the deep winter, Tobias from VANHAUS Conversions recommends pre-warming the tank with gas, so if you keep the van warm, you’ll have a constant supply of instant, warm showers no matter the weather!
An Imass hot water recirculation system like this just requires a hole for the unit and support behind it. Its faceplate can be customised to match the van’s colour, adding a sleek, integrated look – as we see below.
Kitchen
The kitchen in this bespoke Mercedes Sprinter van camper features an expansive wooden, live edge countertop, complemented by an extendable section for added workspace. The countertop is a lightweight, soft wood, supplied by BearWood – a company devoted to creating a new life for timber that would otherwise end up as firewood or woodchips.
Additionally, a stunning copper-accented backsplash from Halman Thompson brings a rustic, earthy charm to the space, and is a nod to VANHAUS Conversions‘ dedication to designing totally unique roving homes.
Equipped with a Thetford oven, induction cooktop, and a low power compressor fridge, this kitchen is perfect for full-time vanlife.
Thoughtfully arranged cabinets and drawers maximise storage without compromising on style, ensuring essentials are easily accessible yet roadtrip-ready.
Key features:
↠ Spacious kitchen with countertop extension
↠ Thetford oven and induction cooktop
↠ Copper-accented backsplash
↠ Thetford compressor fridge
↠ Ample storage cabinets and drawers
↠ Large rectangular metal sink with antique brass tap
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Storage
This Sprinter van is brimming with thoughtful storage options.
A combination of overhead cabinets with brass hardware and woven baskets offer accessible and flexible storage. We’re big fans of the optimisation of storage space, and the lightweight basket storage is a great addition.
Beneath the bed, a spacious garage area is perfect for storing bulky adventure gear, as well as homing water tanks and electrical components.
The kitchen features deep drawers for utensils and cooking essentials, and additional storage can be found in the bench seating, ensuring every inch of this van is utilised efficiently. With these bespoke solutions, staying organised on the road is pretty effortless.
Key features:
↠ Overhead cabinets with brass handles
↠ Woven basket storage
↠ Large under-bed garage for bulky gear
↠ Deep kitchen drawers for cooking essentials
↠ Copper hanging rail for utensils
↠ Bench seating with hidden storage
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Lighting
Thanks to two skylights, this campervan really lets the natural light in. In the evenings, carefully-placed lighting enhances its warm, homey feel.
Recessed ceiling spotlights provide a consistent and gentle illumination throughout the space, while subtle under-shelf lighting offers a cosy glow above the bedroom, ideal for winding down!
Key features:
↠ Recessed ceiling spotlights in main living area and bathroom
↠ Under-shelf LED lighting above the bed
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Heating
Keeping it toasty all your round, this van has a 4KW diesel heater, fed from the main diesel tank. This was supplied by MV Heating.
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Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Exterior
The robust modifications to this campervan include spare wheel storage, Thule awning, and alloy wheels. Panoramic windows both look great and support off-grid living.
Windows & Ventilation
Panoramic double-glazed windows flood the space with natural light, making the van feel open and connected to the outdoors. Ventilation is further enhanced by a ceiling-mounted fan, which ensures steady airflow throughout the living area.
All windows open and, of particular note, are the integrated blinds – perfect for life on the road.
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Skylights & Fans
The van’s skylights are a key design feature, filling the interior with natural light and creating a sense of openness that enhances the cosy wooden finishes.
Wheels
This camper has had a nice wheel upgrade, with the addition of CC2 Satin Black alloys from vanlife favourites – Rogue Alloys.
Other Exterior Upgrades
A Thule awning has been fitted, providing an ideal shaded outdoor space, effectively doubling the living area when parked up.
Additionally, a tubular rear door spare wheel carrier is a great addition. Lightweight yet robust, this carrier from Wheeliams can be added without any hinge modifications.
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Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Camper with Off-grid Power Set-up
VANHAUS Conversions takes off-grid power seriously, ensuring that each of their vans is equipped with robust, dependable systems that are ready to perform in all conditions.
While the interiors may exude style and luxury, these vans are built for much more than just looks.
Beneath the surface, they are fitted with high-performance off-grid technology designed to support a true adventurer’s lifestyle, no matter the season or location.
This Mercedes-Benz Sprinter camper features top-tier Victron controllers, inverters, and chargers, along with cutting-edge LifePO4 batteries.
Of particular note is VANHAUS Conversions‘ approach to solar. As a rule, they aim at least 425W of solar as standard, in a rack mounted format, opting for Perlight panels, which are among the best solar panels available, thanks to their high performance and cost-efficiency.
VANHAUS‘ systems ensure you will stay powered up, rain or shine.
Fully Loaded Off-Grid Electrical System
Key features:
↠ 460Ah Fogstar Drift PRO LiFePO4 Leisure Battery
↠ Pop-up hidden counter-top sockets
↠ 590W Perlight solar panels (2 x 295W)
↠ MPPT cotroller
↠ Victron Orion-Tr Smart – Isolated DC-DC Charger
↠ Victron Lynx Power In 1000A Busbar
↠ Victron MultiPlus-II inverter/charger
↠ 25L LPG tank (underslung)
In addition to solar and DC-DC charging to keep all your devices topped up, this van also has superior WiFi capabilities, thanks to a Teletonica 4G Router and a 4G Puck (RUT241) mounted on the roof.
The RUT241 router ensures a stable and secure connection, allowing for seamless browsing, streaming, and remote work. With 4G LTE support, it can connect to mobile networks, ensuring reliable internet access even in remote locations. The roof-mounted puck boosts signal strength, helping to maintain a strong and consistent connection, making it an ideal solution for staying connected while on the road.
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Vanlife Verdict
This is a van tour where our words simply cannot do the conversion justice. The exceptional quality of the carpentry is unrivalled. It’s just beautiful.
Vanlife Hub Team
But this is a space that doesn’t just look good, it also functions seamlessly for full-time living. The interior strikes a harmonious balance between modern design and rustic warmth. For us, it’s perfection on wheels.
Our final verdict?
This Mercedes campervan from VANHAUS Conversions truly stands out as a top-tier choice for anyone dreaming of vanlife freedom.
With its thoughtfully crafted, bespoke interior and powerful off-grid capabilities, this van marries style with substance in every inch.
This travel van offers a little bit of everything: ample storage, versatile living areas, and a reliable setup for exploring off the beaten path.
If you’re looking for a van that’s as beautiful as it is functional, designed to support your adventures with ease, speaking to VANHAUS Conversions is a no brainer. They have a dedication to difference, and each of their van builds is 100% unique.
🌟 We are pretty swept away by this awesome Mercedes-Benz Sprinter camper. 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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FAQs About Long Wheel Base Sprinter Conversions
How much do Sprinter van conversions cost?
The question ‘How much do Sprinter van conversions cost?’ is one we hear often, and the answer depends on a variety of factors.
Generally, the cost of a professionally-converted Sprinter van conversion can range anywhere from £15,000 for a basic setup to over £80,000 for a fully custom, off-grid capable build. The price is influenced by the level of craftsmanship, the quality of materials, and the type of off-grid systems you opt for.
In addition, the cost of the base van itself can vary depending on factors like mileage and condition, with lower-mileage, well-maintained vans often coming at a premium.
Ultimately, investing in a high-quality conversion can be worthwhile for those planning long-term travel, as it provides a reliable and comfortable home on wheels tailored to your needs.
Can you sleep sideways in a Sprinter van?
Yes, you can sleep sideways in a Mercedes Sprinter van, but it depends largely on your height and the van’s interior configuration.
In a standard setup, the interior width of a Sprinter van may be a bit tight for taller individuals. However, the sleeping space can be extended by adding side flares or creating an indent in the insulation, as seen in Katy the Sprinter, which provides a few extra inches for a more comfortable sideways sleep.
As a general rule, if you’re over 6 feet (183 cm), you may want to consider a layout that allows for a larger lengthwise bed to ensure a comfortable sleep without feeling cramped.
For shorter individuals or those with custom side flares, a sideways bed can be a space-saving option that still provides plenty of comfort.
How well do Sprinter vans hold their value?
Sprinter vans are known to hold their value exceptionally well, especially when compared to other vehicles in the camper van and cargo van categories.
Their durability, strong performance, and reputation for reliability contribute to their high resale value.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinters are built to last, often reaching high mileage without major issues, which makes them an attractive option on the used market.
Additionally, the growing popularity of van life has increased demand for used Sprinters, especially those already converted for living or travel.
Factors like mileage, maintenance history, and the quality of any conversions or customisations will impact resale value, but overall, a well-maintained Sprinter tends to retain its value, making it a solid investment for those looking to enter or eventually exit the van life world.
What was the weight of this van build?
The weight of this converted van is a little under 3,100KG, so coming in 400KG beneath the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) – the maximum safe weight it can carry.
The GVWR for this van is 3,500KG (3.5T), which must include the weight of the vehicle itself, passengers, cargo, and any trailer.
What are the benefits of a campervan compared to a traditional motorhome?
Campervans offer several distinct advantages compared to motorhomes, especially when it comes to flexibility and convenience.
Typically being smaller and more compact, campervans are generally easier to drive and manoeuvre, making them ideal for navigating tight corners, narrow country roads, and even off-road trails. They often fit into standard parking spaces, making them a versatile option for everyday use, whether you’re heading out on a weekend trip or running errands.
One major perk of campervans is the high level of customisation available, allowing you to create a space uniquely tailored to your lifestyle, and budget.
Campervans can also be more “stealthy” when parked up, blending in with everyday vehicles and providing extra discretion while parked-up in urban or residential areas.
And, as a little added bonus, campervans let you swing open the rear doors to enjoy the view or let the sun in—a simple pleasure that really enhances the vanlife experience.
In contrast, motorhomes are typically larger, providing more interior space and amenities, which can make them a great option for those who want a full-time home on wheels. However, their size can limit access to certain areas and make driving more challenging, especially for those new to large vehicles.
Another benefit of campervans is that they often come with lower fuel costs and maintenance expenses due to their smaller size and engine. They’re perfect for travellers who prefer a simpler setup, while a motorhome may suit those who prioritise having extra space and more built-in facilities.
Very informative article!
Thank you, really appreciate it! 🥰