Riding the crest of camper creativity, we love sharing unique camper conversions with you.
We hope this detailed interior tour of ‘Isabella’ – a bespoke beach-inspired van build – will give you some ideas and inspire you to dip a toe into vanlife!
Recently, we wrote about this rustic Citroen Relay conversion from the team at Handkrafted Campers . We were in awe of the interior design and attention to detail in that campervan interior. So, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to peek inside another wooden interior from their workshop in Bristol…
And we’re so glad we did! The epic attention to detail is the hallmark of camper van conversions from Handkrafted Campers . Decked out in reclaimed wood, with a starlit ceiling and hand-painted crackle glaze shower door, this Citroen camper has the laid-back charm of a beach shack, infused with the comforts and luxuries of an expensive bijou hideaway in Salcombe (AKA ‘Britain’s Millionaire Playground’).
Let’s take a look inside this 3-berth campervan conversion…
Base Vehicle Specification
Key features:
↠ Manufacturer: Citroen
↠ Model: Relay L3 H2 (LWB, high roof)
↠ Campervan conversion by: Handkrafted Campers
Beachy Citroen Camper Interior
This 3-berth Citroen campervan embodies the spirit of coastal adventures. Beautifully designed and executed, it features all the home comforts, in a special coastal-cool kinda way.
Van Conversion Layout
In the meticulous conversion of Isabella, Handkrafted Campers have masterfully orchestrated the van’s interior, with impressive spatial design.
Utilising natural bamboo dividers and reclaimed wood, they have segmented the compact space into distinct areas without compromising on openness or comfort. This thoughtful division enhances the van’s overall flow and utility, whilst demonstrating a deep understanding of van living.
Isabella’s layout includes a dual-sided kitchen, maximising space and functionality; a roomy shower cubicle with a removable toilet, seamlessly blending practicality with style; and a versatile seating area that transitions into a dining or work space.
Completing the design is the sleeping quarters at the rear, featuring a double bed with a single bunk above – similar to that seen in this L3H3 Citroen camper conversion.
Key features:
↠ Fixed double bed (east to west)
↠ Fixed single bunk bed (east to west) with handcrafted ladder
↠ Spacious dual-sided kitchen
↠ Shower with removable PortaPotti
↠ Cube-style dining set
↠ Rear garage
Aside from ‘Manny’ – a LWB VW campervan, designed by Vanlife Hub’s founder, this is the first camper we’ve toured that doesn’t have access to the front seats from the interior. Panel vans typically come with a bulkhead – the fixed division between front and back – and this has been left in place.
There’s always a lot of debate about this from people on Pinterest and in vanlife forums, who often want to be able to get from front to back without going outside for safety reasons. We think it’s important to do whatever you’re comfortable with; there and pro and cons of keeping and removing the bulkhead, but that’s a discussion for another article!
Seating & Sleeping
The vibe in the living space is all about kicking back and soaking up those laid-back, beachy feels, even when it comes to catching some Z’s or just hanging out.
Separated from the rest of the van with a beautiful wooden arch and bamboo dividers, there’s a comfy east-west bed setup down low, offering a snug double for two to crash on after a day of fresh air adventures.
Climb up the handcrafted ladder, and you’ll find a lofty single loft bed.
On the flip side, the seating’s all about versatility; with bench seating paired with a swivelling Lagun table – the perfect space for planning your next travels, living your best digital nomad life, dining, or just kicking back with a cold one.
Key features:
↠ Double east-west fixed bed (sleeps 2)
↠ Single east-west fixed bed (sleeps 1)
↠ Bench seating
↠ Tabletop with Lagun swivelling table leg
🔍 Click photos to expand
Seeing this bunk-bed style setup in an L3H2 Citroen Relay campervan is a great opportunity to compare to the slightly taller L3H3 with the same sleeping configuration. In the photos below Isabella (L2H2) is to the left and the slightly taller Maggie (L3H3) is on the right.
The L3H2 model has an interior height of 1932mm, compared to the L3H3’s interior height which stands at 2172mm.
Plumbing & Bathroom
Isabella has the perfect plumbing and bathroom setup for easy living on the road.
The standout feature?
A full-height shower cubicle, complete with a handpainted crackle glaze door. Inside, ocean blue herringbone panels for a subtle nod to the sea. Practical touches, like the removable PortaPotti toilet and antique brass fixtures, ensure functionality meets style.
In the kitchen, there’s an antique brass mixer tap.
A Truma Combi Boiler 4E underpins the system, supplying hot water efficiently, whether you need to thaw out, rinse the sand off, or get cosy.
Key features:
↠ 84L underslung fresh water tank
↠ 62L underslung waste tank
↠ Fiamma 10 litre 12v Water pump
↠ Fiamma expansion tank
↠ Lockable Fiamma water inlet
↠ Truma Combi Boiler 4E (gas & electric)
↠ Antique brass shower
↠ Thetford PortaPotti
↠ Antique brass metal mixer tap with sink
🔍 Click photos to expand
Kitchen
The kitchen, uniquely spread across both sides of the van, maximises the use of space. This dual-sided configuration not only allows for enhanced manoeuvrability while cooking but also leverages every inch of the interior, ensuring that preparation areas and storage cabinets are both ample and accessible.
Key features:
↠ Thetford hob double burner
↠ Reclaimed wood cabinetry
↠ Brass accents
↠ Bespoke tile backsplash
↠ Shoreline compressor fridge freezer
🔍 Click photos to expand
The double burner hob in this build is powered by an underslung 25 litre LPG tank. It’s important to note that no campers leave the Handkrafted Campers‘ workshop in Bristol without a gas and electric habitation check and sign-off.
Storage
This van build has plenty of storage, with a great mix of open overhead and kitchen cabinets, bucket-style floating shelves, hooks, crochet hanging baskets and drawers, as well as a rear garage.
The positioning and variety of storage in this van conversion further demonstrates a deep understanding of van living.
Key features:
↠ Bespoke shoe rack
↠ Rustic floating box shelves
↠ Rustic floating spicerack
↠ Rear garage
↠ Drawer storage beneath bed
↠ Kitchen cupboards
↠ Various overhead cabinets
↠ Various hooks and hanging storage
🔍 Click photos to expand
Lighting
In the galaxy of van conversions we’ve toured, Isabella’s lighting setup truly shines the brightest.
This van cleverly balances a spectrum of illumination, from the flexibility of reading lights and overhead spotlights, to the touch of rugged elegance provided by the industrial-style wall lights, everything is in keeping with the van’s surfy, laid-back vibe.
But the real showstopper? It’s the starlit ceiling.
Among all of Isabella’s impressive features, this celestial masterpiece steals the spotlight for us! By crafting a night sky within the cosy confines of the van, every evening can feel like an enchanting night stargazing, no matter where you park.
This unique feature not only elevates the entire build but also sets a new benchmark for what vanlife can look and feel like – anybody who’s ever converted a van into a camper will agree that this is a luminary achievement!
Key features:
↠ 12V gold reading light / USB combo
↠ Bespoke reading lights in living space
↠ Starlit ceiling
Heating
Heating is courtesy of a Truma Combi Boiler 4E with 4 vents into living space. What sets the Truma Combi Boiler 4E apart is its dual-functionality, offering both ambient warmth and hot water, from a single appliance. It’s energy efficient, lightweight, and space-saving.
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Citroen Campervan Conversion Exterior
The exterior of this camper presents a deceptively plain facade, a stark contrast to the hidden luxury of the roving beach shack that awaits within! There are some strategically placed windows for ventilation, but the star of the show is the huge skylight.
Windows
Key features:
↠ Small slider window to offside rear
↠ Half-slider window fitted to offside mid-section
Skylights
Skylights can dramatically transform campervan conversions, introducing a flood of natural light that illuminates even the most compact, lightless spaces.
This particular conversion benefits immensely from a large, centrally located skylight, which not only brightens the interior but also enhances the overall sense of openness.
Beyond their aesthetic, skylights are perfect for maintaining privacy and adding to the stealth factor of a campervan. They allow light to pour in without compromising seclusion or drawing attention, making them an ideal feature.
Key features:
↠ Huge skylight
↠ Small skylight in bathroom
Dream Van with Off-grid Power Set-up
This Citroen Relay campervan is equipped with a premium, full Victron energy setup, designed for superior off-grid performance.
This powerful and efficient kit enables sustained adventures far from conventional power sources, allowing you to embrace the wilderness without concern for plugging in, even under limited sunlight.
Should the need arise, a brief journey with the DC-DC charger activated will give you a power boost, ensuring uninterrupted freedom and self-sufficiency on the road.
Key features:
↠ 110Ah TN Lithium battery
↠ 2x 140W Victron Mono Series solar panel
↠ Victron Smart Solar MPPT charger 100/30
↠ Victron MultiPlus 12/1600
↠ Victron Battery Monitor Smart BMV-712
↠ Victron Digital Multi Control
↠ Inverted double socket
↠ Mains hook up (EHU)
↠ Underslung 25 litre LPG tank
Vanlife Verdict: Conclusion
Isabella strikes a perfect balance between beach shack charm and the practicalities of van life. Her layout is both beautiful and functional. Featuring bamboo dividers, driftwood accents and the standout crackle-glazed shower door, she brings a touch of the coast to every journey without compromising on utility.
Vanlife Hub Team
The inclusion of a starlit ceiling elevates the experience further, transforming the interior into a night-time sanctuary under a canopy of stars. It reminds us of clear nights by the sea.
While van conversion shines in its striking design, the inclusion of premium kit – such as the Truma Combi Boiler 4E and a comprehensive Victron power setup – underscores a strong commitment to off-grid capability.
Our final verdict?
Handkrafted Campers have delivered a van that’s both a huge expression of creativity and a testament to practical design. Isabella doesn’t just take you places; she brings a slice of beach life along for the ride, and we love it!
If you are looking to convert a van into a work of art, definitely give Handkrafted Campers a call.
Would you like to win a van like this? Handkrafted Campers regularly designs luxury vans as prizes, in association with Vanny Campers. Find out more about vanlife competitions…
🌟 We absolutely love this beachy conversion from the team at Handkrafted Campers. 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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Camper Van Interior Ideas
See more ideas to inspire your van conversion interior…
FAQs About Van Conversions
Is it cheaper to buy a van and have it converted?
Whether it’s cheaper to buy a van and have it converted, or buy a completed campervan, depends on several factors, including the type of van, the extent and quality of the conversion, and whether you’re doing any of the work yourself.
Generally, buying a van and converting it yourself can be more cost-effective than purchasing a pre-converted van or paying for a professional conversion, especially if you have the tools and skills to DIY. However, you need to plan your budget effectively and be realistic about the time investment and skills required.
Alternatively you could buy a van and pay to have it converted. This is often the most expensive option, but is also most likely to result in a dream van build that is reliable and goes the distance!
In contrast, pre-converted vans come with the advantage of being ready to use immediately, with no waiting period for the conversion process, but they might not match your exact needs or preferences.
It really does depend what you are looking for, your availability and skills, and your budget.
In this article we reveal the cost of van conversions and have tips to help you plan your van conversion budget.
What is the most popular van to convert?
The most popular vans for conversions are probably the Mercedes Sprinter and the VW Transporter (T5 etc).
Both of these models have garnered a loyal following among vanlife enthusiasts and DIY converters due to their reliability, versatility, and the ample space they offer.
The Sprinter van, known for its robust build and brand reputation, is favoured for more spacious and luxurious conversions. On the other hand, the VW Transporter, with its iconic design and more compact size, appeals to those looking for a balance between everyday usability and comfort on the road.
Each van has its unique advantages. Other popular models include: Citroen Relay, Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer, VW Crafter, VW Transporter series, Ford Transit, Vauxhall Vivaro, Renault Master, and smaller microcampers such as the Citroen Berlingo.
Do I have to tell the DVLA if I convert a van?
Following the rule changes in October 2019, it’s not legally required to re-register a van as a campervan with the DVLA. A vehicle can remain registered as a panel van or similar, yet legally function and be used as a campervan, provided it has the appropriate insurance.
Thus, to the question, “Do I need to register my van as a campervan?” the answer is no. But some people choose to (the debate about that is for another article – it’s a big topic!)
What should I consider when planning my van conversion interior?
When planning your van conversion interior, you should consider the layout for efficient space use, insulation and ventilation for comfort, a reliable power supply for your needs, a practical water system, comfortable sleeping arrangements, smart storage solutions, a well-designed kitchen, appropriate heating or cooling systems, durable and attractive materials, and adherence to legal and safety requirements.
Starting out with these considerations in mind will ensure your conversion is practical, comfortable, and safe for your adventures.
What’s the best way to work with a professional van conversion company?
Working with a professional van converter involves collaboration and communication to achieve your dream van.
The extent of your involvement with a van conversion company can vary; some companies may source and supply the van for you, while others might require you to provide the vehicle, for example.
Depending on the company, you may have the option to select from a portfolio of layouts and add custom finishes to your camper van furniture, or you might be involved in designing the entire conversion from scratch.
The key commissioning the van build of your dreams is to thoroughly research and choose a company that aligns with your vision and needs. Once you’ve made your choice, allow the experts to be your van conversion guide, following their lead to navigate the process smoothly.
How can I avoid scams when buying a van?
Campervan and motorhome scams are the latest get rich quick schemes. Online marketplaces – such as Facebook Marketplace and Ebay – are riddled with them.
When buying a campervan, it’s crucial to stay vigilant to avoid scams.
Always view the campervan in person and verify all documentation, including the V5C registration document, to ensure it matches the vehicle details. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, such as significantly underpriced models, and avoid sellers who push for quick, deposit-based transactions without proper face-to-face interaction. Research the seller’s background and insist on a comprehensive vehicle check to detect potential issues or tampering.
Check out this Guide on How to Avoid Campervan Scams, and download the FREE ‘Red Flag Checklist‘ for more tips.
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