Whether you love ‘em or hate ‘em, it’s hard to debate the fact that tiny homes are in! Many are opting to ditch the stuff they don’t need in favor of downsizing to one of these bad boys. Nonetheless, it’s important to note that tiny homes and camper conversions aren’t created equal. Some are functional enough, but the one we are going to show you today is beautiful!

Jack Richens, an Oxford resident and van life enthusiast, preaches the virtues of this unique type of simple living on his website This Moving House.

Richens and his girlfriend see kids in their future, so when they were setting out to purchase a van, those “four, or so,” prospective little ones were at the forefront of their minds.

In his blog, the van dweller explains that, after doing some thorough research on everything from rusted old VWs to super sleek racing vans – yes, that’s a thing apparently! – he came to the conclusion that the only way to get the features that his family needed was to build his own. So, the two purchased a used Long Wheel Base Mercedes Sprinter and got to work!

As you’ve surely already surmised, this isn’t your ordinary van conversion. In order to maximize space and include the necessary elements, Richens decided to take a bit of a unique approach. Instead of following the typical camper prototype, he read up and gained inspiration from boat design and construction, of all things.

The beds, for instance, follow this nautical scheme to a “T.” These bed “capsules,” as they’re called, ensure that the sleeper has enough legroom to rest comfortably, even in the tightest of spaces.

Plus, this first row of swivel captain chairs double as car seats and dining room chairs. They face forward when on the road, and pivot backwards during meal time, creating a makeshift dining room set-up. Richens’ van even features stairs. At first glance, the steps look like they may be decorative, not functional, but there is so much more than meets the eye! Richens explains:

The stairs add a unique feature for the van, provide access to the back bunks and also offer lots of space for storage. This will provide the main “adult” storage space as well as stash areas for bulky, less used items in compartments around the wheel arch.

The steps will be detachable so that larger bench style storage can be attached if needed. The third step will lift to provide dedicated stowage space for dirty washing which is always overlooked in vans.

To see even more pictures of this amazing camper van conversion, along with step-by-step instructions on how to build one of your own, be sure to visit Jack’s site here. The builder extraordinaire is even offering up his services. So, if you really dig the design, you can order one of your own. Genius!

What do you think about Jack Richens’ camper van conversion? Is there anything that you would add to the design? Do you reap the benefits of living the tiny home lifestyle? Tell us all about your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below!