The walls were covered and installed, and now it was time to build the bed frame. The hardest part of installing the bed was deciding on the orientation of the mattress. We had an extra queen-sized memory foam mattress from our glass sunroom patio that we designated for use in the van.
The Mattress
If we laid it lengthwise, it took up more space but was long enough to stretch out on comfortably. Laying it sideways saved space.
The lengthwise orientation put our backs against the back doors when we wanted to “sit up” in bed. Sideways meant that our backs would be against a side window. Either way, we would have to trim some of the mattress to make it fit the space.
We opted for the sideways orientation and cut the mattress down to size. To do this, we removed the covers (there were two) from the memory foam pieces and used an electric carving knife (the same one we use on the turkey every year at Thanksgiving). These knives cut through foam like a hot knife through butter.
We reduced the size of the covers by sewing a new seam across the end and put them back on the newly trimmed mattress foam. That was all that was needed for the mattress part of the bed.
The Bed Frame
Loki came with a rear AC distribution box that has three vents coming out of the top, which is directly connected to the main van air conditioning system. You can see this box in the pictures below. After researching the unit, we determined that removing it would involve a lot of work, requiring alterations to the van’s main AC system. Therefore, we decided to leave it in place and build around it. Ultimately, we will re-vent it to make use of the heat and air while driving.
Since the box was staying put, we decided to build the bed frame forward of the box. This would leave room for a “garage” area in the rear of the van. Using 2x4x8 lumber, we cut and built a basic frame unit that fit snugly within the walls. We did not secure it to the van, as it is firmly wedged in place and not going anywhere.
We used ยฝ” plywood for the platform where the mattress rests, and we may drill some vent holes later to allow for better air circulation underneath.
The Garage Frame
The next thing we built was the garage area framing. We wanted a shelf top to set items on while using the bed (laptop, drinks, etc.). This back-framed unit also needed to come up above the bed a little to act as a side railing of sorts. So, we built the frame for the garage at a height that would work for that, creating a space underneath that we call the garage.
This is where the electrical and other house systems will be located and will also be used for outdoor items like folding chairs, a grill, etc. It has also turned out to be a fantastic place to transport groceries and other shopping items, keeping them well hidden and cooler than in direct sunlight.
Gallery for the Bed Frame
