As you step inside ‘Polly’ – a LWB Mercedes Sprinter – you’re greeted by a minimalist-modern aesthetic that is so stylishly composed, it’s like it’s a bijou apartment that’s been lifted straight from the pages of an interior design magazine.
You know the kind – they’re a heady mix of ingenious storage solutions, an expertly-curated colour palette, and oh-so-subtle mood lighting… then comes the wistful realisation that life is rarely is as perfect as an editorial spread.
But, dear campervan enthusiast, in this beautiful van conversion from Vanpuravida, you can live the ‘bijou apartment lifestyle’ on the road!
This apartment on wheels has space to sleep and seat 5, so you can live life to the luxe in this Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with all the family in tow!
Please note, every single element of this conversion was handpicked by the team at Vanpuravida; selected for quality, durability and style. We have endeavoured to link to suppliers where possible; some of these links are affiliate links.
TL;DR
Short on time? Check out this video tour…
Base Vehicle Specification
Key features:
↠ Model: Sprinter panel van (L3H2 – high roof)
↠ Fuel: Diesel
↠ Converted by: Vanpuravida
Long Wheelbase Sprinter Campervan Interior
Polly’s rich colour palette paired with light wooden accents brings a touch of warmth, ensuring the space feels welcoming and roomy. Elements are harmoniously balanced, in keeping with the chic, luxe-minimalist aesthetic.
But beyond the colours and materials, one thing that really sets this above other campervan layouts, is the clever use of curved edges. They not only enhance the visual appeal, but also amplify the sense of space within the compact confines of this roving home.
A standout feature is undoubtedly the reeded oak panelling from The Surface Studio, which cleverly conceals the shower room. This curvature is echoed in the kitchen cabinetry, creating a symmetrical aesthetic that is pleasing to the eye, and makes moving around the van easier.
Van Conversion Layout
With family trips in mind, this luxury motorhome conversion seats and sleeps five passengers.
To the rear we have the sleeping area, but rather than a classic fixed bed, there’s a family-friendly dinette area, with electric lift bed overhead. This flows through to the kitchen and shower cubicle.
To the front are 5 seats, all reupholstered in brown leather.
The main driving area is subtly separated from the living space by bamboo slats, helping to maintain a cosy, home-like atmosphere. This clever design is a simple yet effective way to blend light and space, enhancing the overall experience of van living. We admired a similar separation technique in this L3H2 Citroen Relay camper – except that conversion features bamboo canes, in keeping with its beach shack vibes.
Key features:
↠ Dinette and lounge area (converts to king-size bed).
↠ Lippert electric lift bed.
↠ Shower room with removable toilet.
↠ Spacious L-shaped kitchen.
↠ 2 belted passenger seats, one of them with a lap belt.
Seating & Sleeping
If you’ve been wondering whether you can sleep 5 people in a campervan, the answer is absolutely! Sure, it’s rare to see a 5-berth campervan, but with a clever floor plan, and the thoughtful selection of lightweight materials for the living area, it’s perfectly possible.
This Mercedes Sprinter camper is a prime example of how a campervan can comfortably accommodate a family or group of five. Every aspect of the design is crafted with this purpose in mind—ensuring that seating, sleeping, and dining areas are not only functional, but comfortable for the whole family.
Polly boasts an innovative lounge layout that converts seamlessly into sleeping quarters. The rear sofa bench seats combine with the removable dining table to form a kingsize bed. Overhead, a drop-down electric lift bed can be deployed to create an additional sleeping space for up to 3 children.
This smart use of multipurpose furniture allows Polly to maintain an open, airy feel during the day, while providing a comfortable sleeping area for five people at night.
In addition to the three fixed seats in the cab, which have been beautifully reupholstered in tan leather, working from front to back, this van has:
Key features:
↠ 2 belted passenger seats, one of them with a lap belt.
↠ Dinette area with 2 sofas (convert to kingsize bed).
↠ Bespoke upholstery cushions (@theskullshed).
↠ Premium foam ‘Reflex 40H’ mattress, 12cm depth (175x150cm).
↠ Electric lift bed (@lipperteurope).
↠ Cleverly concealed slidaway ladder (@lipperteurope).
🔍 Click photos to expand
The sleeping area in this van conversion doesn’t just look amazing, the electric aluminium bed frame is super light and efficient – working on 12v power.
Looking for extra headroom? It’s possible to add a pop-top roof for extra sleeping space to this campervan configuration.
Plumbing & Bathroom
With full off-grid capability and self-sufficiency in mind for a family of 5, this van has a full shower and toilet.
Beautifully crafted, the curved reeded oak exterior and the 3D tile effect mosaic mint interior of the shower room complement the natural chic aesthetic of this conversion.
Key features:
↠ Removable Thetford Toilet Porta Potti 335 toilet.
↠ 3D tile effect panelling from Recosurfaces.
↠ Recessed toiletry shelf with LED lighting.
↠ Matt black shower with rainfall showerhead and handheld shower.
↠ ROLdoûr retractable waterproof roller doors from THEdour.
↠ Reeded oak exterior shower wall from The Surface Studio.
↠ Water heater: Whale expanse LPG gas and electric (240V).
↠ Whale water pump 30psi with filter and non-return valve.
↠ Whale water accumulator.
↠ Whale piping.
↠ 90L Fresh water tank (underslung) with external filing point.
↠ 75L waste water tank (underslung) with easy drain valve.
↠ KUS fresh and waste water level indicator with control panel.
🔍 Click photos to expand
Kitchen
The centrally-located L-shaped kitchen is a clever feat of design and functionality.
On first look, you’re drawn to the curved units and the speckled splashback from Behangfabriek.
Then you notice the large eye-level fridge/freezer, unusual to see in a campervan, but so fitting in a family apartment-on-wheels like this! The Thetford T2090 fridge/freezer was specifically chosen due to its shallow depth and curved back – making the most of every inch of space.
With plenty of room for cooking, there are 2 gas hobs, powered by a refillable LPG gas tank located beneath the van, next to the water tanks. Cabinets are constructed with Garnica Efficiency Poplar Plywood – selected for its lightweight qualities, and its perfect finish once painted.
Key features:
↠ Bamboo worktop from Moso Bamboo Surfaces.
↠ Thetford 922 12v 2gas hob
↠ 35cm diameter black sink with copper tap and removable cover.
↠ Splashback from Behangfabriek.
↠ Thetford T2090 Fridge/freezer (84L).
↠ Kitchen units made from lightweight Garnica Efficiency Poplar Plywood.
🔍 Click photos to expand
Storage
While this layout may miss the spacious garage typically afforded by a fixed bed, it more than makes up for it with other storage options.
In addition to kitchen storage which provide plenty of space, this van conversion incorporates free format storage – in the bench seating and above the cab.
Additionally there’s a range of storage spaces in decorative recessed shelving, complete with LED lighting, all adding to the visual appeal of this conversion.
Key features:
↠ Barcelona sliding slats system beneath sofas (developed in collaboration with Lippert).
↠ Book storage shelves.
↠ 2 deep drawers.
↠ 3 overhead cabinets.
↠ Double-depth curved kitchen cupboard.
↠ Storage area over the cab.
↠ Hidden drawer beneath seats.
🔍 Click photos to expand
Lighting
The lighting design in this Mercedes Sprinter van conversion successfully combines practicality with a welcoming atmosphere. It features a versatile array of options, from cute mini recessed spotlights in the step to wall-mounted reading lights and super-functional spotlights.
One highlight is the use of small accent lights to highlight the detailing and features – such as the beautiful curves of the handcrafted shelving. This is all thanks to the use of COB (Chip On Board) light strips which offer ‘spotless’ light. This means that LED chips are placed more closely together on the board than with traditional LEDs, which creates a more seamless and smooth lighting effect.
COB light strips are perfect for areas where a clean and consistent light is desirable, such as beneath cabinets and in alcoves. The colour used here is neutral 4000k.
Key features:
↠ Book storage with LED and USB socket.
↠ Recessed bathroom shelf with LED.
↠ 5 x recessed ceiling spotlights.
↠ 2 x wall mounted reading light.
↠ Recessed mini spotlights in step.
↠ 4 x COB LED light strips (beneath overhead cabinets, at floor-level in the kitchen accentuating the lines of the sofas).
Diesel Heating
If you’re planning on using your campervan in all seasons and want to create a comfortable living space, a diesel heater is pretty essential in any van conversion. This Sprinter camper van has a premium 3KW Autoterm diesel heater fitted.
Endorsed by many experienced van builders, Autoterm make some of the best diesel night heaters on the market.
The team at Vanpuravida have incorporated vents in the main living space and shower; the latter both keeping the temperature inside the shower room toasty, while also enabling you to dry your clothes easily!
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Sprinter Conversion Exterior
The exterior of this Mercedes Sprinter panel van has been left largely untouched, save for windows, fans, and a skylight.
Windows & Ventilation
When you’re converting a Sprinter, incorporating effective ventilation is a critical step in the conversion process. Ensuring proper airflow is essential not only for comfort but also for maintaining air quality and preventing moisture build-up, which can lead to mold and other issues.
Selecting the right ventilation systems should be one of the first steps in any van conversion; it will set the foundation for a healthier and more enjoyable living environment as you transform the vehicle into your mobile home.
This campervan conversion features a range of ventilation options, which will help to regulate temperature and airflow, keeping the van condensation free. All windows have a built-in fly screen (sourced from Leisure Vehicle Windows) and have been fitted with blackout blinds.
Key features:
↠ Small opening window on rear passenger side.
↠ 1 lateral privacy fixed window in the sliding door.
↠ 2 rear ‘barndoor’ rear windows with porthole framing.
↠ SwiftAir Light/extractor in shower (12v).
↠ MaxxAir roof extractor fan (Deluxe) with remote control.
Skylights & Fans
There is a centrally located skylight above the comfortable sleeping area.
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Mercedes Sprinter with Off-grid Power Set-up
Jose, one half of the founding team of Vanpuravida, was an electrician for 15 years prior to converting vans, so you rest assured that they specialise in high-end off-grid systems.
The off-grid power setup in this conversion is robust and well-suited for extended off-the-grid adventures. It features two flexible solar panels with a total capacity of 320 watts, which provide a solid foundation for harnessing solar energy. This is complemented by a 105Ah Lithium battery from vanlife favourites Roamer, offering reliable and efficient energy storage.
The integration of a Victron MPPT 100/30 smart charger ensures optimal charging efficiency from the solar panels, maximising the power yield even under varying sunlight conditions. Additionally, the Victron Orion 12/12 DC-DC charger is a must for cloudy days, making it possible to charge the leisure battery from the engine alternator – adding an extra power source into the mix.
The Victron Multiplus 12/800/35 serves as both a power inverter and battery charger, converting DC solar power into AC power for household appliances, while also ensuring the battery is charged efficiently when connected to an external AC power source.
The inclusion of a smart app monitor control allows for real-time tracking and management of the energy system, enhancing the ease of use and increasing peace of mind.
Fully Loaded Off-Grid Electrical System
Key features:
↠ Book storage with LED and USB socket.
↠ 2 flexible solar panels (total capacity 320W).
↠ 105Ah Roamer Lithium battery.
↠ Smart app monitor control.
↠ Victron MPPT 100/30 smart charger.
↠ Victron Multiplus 12/800/35 power inverter and battery charger.
↠ Victron Orion 12/12 DC-DC charger.
↠ 2 x USB and USB-C socket.
↠ 2 x 240v sockets.
↠ 30L underslung LPG tank (refillable bottle system) from LPG Shop, with external filling point.
↠ Internal LPG level control panel.
Choosing an electrical system for your campervan project? The team at Vanpuravida recommend the ‘Pro Campervan System Electrical Kit‘ for its excellent value and quality.
Safety Features
The team at Vanpuravida prioritise safety. Before vans leave workshop, various habitation and safety checks are completed, and alarms are fitted and tested.
Key features:
↠ Electric certificate.
↠ 12V gas alarm.
↠ Gas Landlord’s certificate.
↠ Smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarm.
↠ LPG alarm.
↠ Extinguisher and fire blanket.
Vanlife Verdict
Polly masterfully intertwines sleek minimalism with a high-end, home from home aesthetic, really nailing the apartment-on-wheels style. Stepping inside, you’re immediately struck by the thoughtful layout that optimises both space and function. But it’s not just about clever design—it’s about the subtle curves and materials that make this interior feel spacious beyond its actual dimensions.
Vanlife Hub Team
From the bamboo slats to the seamless blend of natural wood with modern amenities, each aspect of Polly is curated to facilitate a luxury van life experience. The lighting arrangement, a mix of ambient COB LEDs and practical task lighting, sets a mood that’s both comforting and functional.
But Polly’s charm isn’t limited to her interiors. The off-grid capabilities support a life untethered, allowing adventurers to roam freely.
Our final verdict?
Vanpuravida has not only created a campervan in ‘Polly’; they’ve sculpted a lifestyle that’s aspirational yet unusually attainable. With a design that balances beauty with practicality, and off-grid capabilities that empower adventure, Polly stands out as a top-tier choice for anyone serious about embracing the van life.
Polly sets a new benchmark in van conversions and gets a resounding thumbs up from us. She truly stands out as the paragon of mobile living spaces.
🌟 We absolutely love this chic apartment-style family van conversion from the team at Vanpuravida. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
Would you like to win a van like this? Vanpuravida regularly designs luxury vans as prizes, in association with Vanny Campers.
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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Sprinter Camper Van Conversion Ideas
If you’re looking to build or commission a Mercedes Sprinter campervan, check-out these for more camper van conversion ideas:
FAQs About the Mercedes Sprinter Van Conversion
How much does a Sprinter motorhome conversion cost?
The cost of Sprinter van conversions can vary hugely, depending on a large range of factors.
Polly is based on ‘The Alps‘ configuration from Vanpuravida, the current starting price is £43,990 plus VAT (April 2024 – get in touch for current prices). This configuration has been designed for a long wheel base Mercedes Sprinter or VW Crafter van (the base vehicle is not included in the price).
Check out this article for more information about the question ‘How much do van conversions cost?‘.
What kind of insulation does this camper have?
This Mercedes-Benz Sprinter conversion stays toasty warm thanks to the 50mm PIR insulation board, 100mm Plastic recycled insulation fleece in the cavities, and expanding foam. The insulation layer has been covered and sealed with bubble foil as vapour barrier.
The van has been lined with painted plywood, specifically selected for its low level of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) making it a safer and more environmentally friendly choice, especially in the confined space of a campervan. This contributes to better indoor air quality and a healthier living environment.
Why are Mercedes Sprinters and VW Crafter conversions so popular?
Mercedes Sprinters and Volkswagen Crafter conversions are immensely popular for several compelling reasons – the main reasons being reliability, longevity, desirability, and range of sizes.
If you’re going on an adventure and need to choose a reliable vehicle, these models are top picks. They are also much sought after due to their brand reputation, robust engineering and versatility, making them ideal for both short jaunts and extended travels.
The Sprinter is available in a range of roof heights and sizes including long and extra long, as is a Crafter, allowing space for basic and luxury setups.
However, they are more expensive than some panel vans – such as the Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxers, and Citroen Relays of vanlife. When you get your van, you’ll have the option to go for a second hand Mercedes Sprinter or Volkswagen Crafter, which can be more budget-friendly.
Sprinters and Crafters also look the part with their curved sides, but it’s fair to say that these don’t make them the easiest or fastest to convert, unlike their campervan counterparts mentioned above – which are sometimes favoured for their ‘boxier’ wider design.
And finally, we’ve got to mention weight. Weight was an important consideration in this luxury motorhome build, partly because Sprinters are heavier than many other similar base vans.
How much does this campervan conversion weigh?
Van conversions from Vanpuravida are supplied with a public weighbridge certificate. The final weight of this van was 3020kg; leaving a 480kg payload. Put simply, payload refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely carry, including passengers, cargo, fuel, and water, after accounting for the van’s own weight.
It’s important to note that every element of this campervan conversion was selected with weight in mind. From the choice of lightweight ply kitchen cabinetry (Garnica Efficiency ply), to the aluminium bed frame, and the Barcelona sliding slat seat storage (8kg) developed in collaboration with Lippert, to the bamboo worktop and the flexible rooftop solar panels… every kilo was counted.
Why is weight important in camper conversions?
Many customers won’t understand the importance of weight when designing their campervan layout, selecting fixtures, and adding all the optional extras their heart desires.
However, weight doesn’t only affect the campervan conversion’s fuel efficiency, handling, and wear and tear on tyres etc, it also directly affects the vehicle’s safety.
In the UK, campervan weight restrictions are primarily concerned with the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) or Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), both essentially mean the maximum weight the vehicle can legally weigh when fully loaded. For most campervans, such as Sprinters, this is typically up to 3,500kg (3.5T). This weight of vehicle can be driven on a standard Category B UK driving licence.
If a campervan exceeds its 3,500kg limit, it falls into the Category C1 licence category, requiring a different type of driving licence and up-plating. Up-plating refers to the process of legally increasing the the GVW, it may involve modifications and official approvals.
Not complying with campervan weight restrictions in the UK can lead to expensive fines, points on your driving license, and even vehicle impoundment. Additionally, overloading your campervan can invalidate your insurance, leaving you financially vulnerable in the event of an accident.
It’s crucial to adhere to these limits for both legal compliance and safety, and it’s best to commission a professional van converter to guide you through the process if you are in any doubt.
If you are buying a campervan that is already converted, before you hand over the money and get behind the steering wheel, get it weighed.
If the weight of the empty van is below 3,500kg, the difference will need to be enough to cover the weight of your passengers, belongings, fuel, and water, for it to be roadworthy.