Gecko Camper Van: Bold Interior Design in a Compact Space

Converting a compact van into a mobile home is no small feat Gecko Camper Van. The challenge lies in maximizing the limited space while ensuring every square inch serves a purpose. But when done right, a van conversion can turn a simple vehicle into a cozy, practical, and stylish tiny home on wheels. The “Gecko” camper van, a masterpiece from Vanlife Conversions, an Essex, UK-based company, exemplifies just how well this can be done.

Introduction to Gecko: A Fiat Ducato L3H2 Conversion

The Gecko is a custom-built camper van based on the Fiat Ducato L3H2. It’s the brainchild of Vanlife Conversions, a company founded by a couple, Oli and Emily, who were inspired to start the business after converting their van for a European road trip. The company specializes in premium conversions that combine functionality, style, and cutting-edge technology.

Why the Name Gecko Camper Van?

The name Gecko Camper Van wasn’t chosen at random. It reflects the van’s unique design elements and the vibrant, playful color scheme inside. The exterior, however, is much more understated, making it perfect for stealth camping. At first glance, the van looks like a typical passenger vehicle, with only subtle hints at its camper nature.

Exterior Features: A Blend of Stealth and Functionality

Stealth Camping Capabilities

The Gecko Camper Van exterior is designed for those who value discretion. The van’s appearance doesn’t immediately give away its purpose as a mobile home, making it ideal for stealth camping. The only clue is a Thule awning on the passenger side, discreetly positioned above the entrance.

Automatic Electric Steps

One of the most convenient features of the Gecko is the automatic electric steps that deploy as soon as you slide open the door. This small but thoughtful detail makes entering the van effortless, especially after a long day of travel.

Stepping Inside: A Colorful and Welcoming Interior

A Splash of Color

As soon as you step inside the Gecko, you’re greeted by a vibrant interior. The customer chose a bright blue and orange-yellow color palette for the cabinetry and doors. This bold choice is paired with a slatted ceiling made from white-washed pine, set against a bright blue background, and white shiplap walls.

Open Layout Design

The van features an open layout, with no separation between the driver’s cabin and the living space. This design creates a sense of continuity and spaciousness, despite the van’s compact size. The bathroom, located straight ahead of the entrance, partially covers the pass-through space, maintaining privacy without disrupting the open feel.

The Bathroom: A Functional and Stylish Space

Eye-Catching Design

The bathroom door is one of the first things you’ll notice upon entering the Gecko, thanks to its bright blue color and a gecko-shaped cut-out. This whimsical touch sets the tone for the rest of the van’s interior.

Well-Equipped Bathroom

Inside the bathroom, you’ll find white subway-tiled walls with grey grout, a full-size mirror, a bamboo mat, a shower, and a Nature’s Head composting toilet. The bathroom can also function as a wet room, with hooks and a wall-mounted rack for drying wetsuits or other wet gear.

Smart Storage Solutions Throughout the Van

Floor-to-Ceiling Pantry

Vanlife Conversions has maximized storage space with a floor-to-ceiling pantry next to the bathroom. The pantry is divided into two sections, both featuring pull-out baskets. The lower section also includes an oak divider for organizing kitchen utensils.

Hidden Storage and Safety Features

Opposite the kitchen, there’s a small bench with two storage compartments. The compartment closest to the entrance houses a safe, a fire extinguisher, and a fire blanket, ensuring safety is always within reach.

Read More: Vandalorian: A Luxurious Off-Grid Camper Van with a Massive Garage

The Kitchen: Small but Mighty

Efficient Use of Space

The kitchen in the Gecko is compact but highly functional. It features an oak countertop, a deep sink with an extendable faucet, a tiny shelf, and a colorful backsplash that ties the design together. Despite its small size, the kitchen provides ample storage with two cabinets under the sink, two drawers, and two overhead cabinets.

Innovative Design

One of the most ingenious features of the kitchen is the ability to increase counter space by splitting the bed in half and stacking the mattresses. This setup reveals a countertop that spans the entire width of the interior, offering plenty of room for meal prep.

Living Space and Multi-Functionality

Integrated Furniture

The living area includes a small bench with integrated storage and a slide-out table hidden within the bed frame. This table can be used for dining or as a workspace for a laptop, adding to the van’s versatility.

Refrigeration and Power Management

Beneath the table area is an 80-liter fridge with a small freezer compartment, ensuring that you have enough space to store perishables for your journey. The van also includes a control panel for the utility systems, which is cleverly hidden in one of the overhead cabinets.

The Bedroom: Cozy and Comfortable

Spacious Bed

At the very rear of the van is the bedroom, which features an extra-wide double bed measuring 150 centimeters (59 inches) in width and 190 centimeters (75 inches) in length. This comfortable sleeping area is perfect for two people.

Natural Light and Ventilation

While there are no windows on the bedroom’s sides, the rear doors feature windows that allow plenty of natural light to flood in. Additionally, a Maxxair vent fan is installed above the bed to ensure proper ventilation.

Utility Systems and Garage Space

Under-Bed Garage

The space underneath the bed serves as a garage, offering substantial storage for larger items. This area also houses the van’s utility systems, including a 460 Ah battery and a 3,000 W inverter/charger. The garage is finished in black with oak trim, contrasting with the rest of the van’s bright interior.

Water and Power Management

The Gecko is equipped with an 83-liter freshwater tank and a 62-liter greywater tank. Both tanks are insulated and heated, making the van suitable for use in colder climates. The power system can be charged via solar panels, shore power, or the vehicle’s alternator, ensuring you have power wherever you go.

Conclusion: A Perfect Balance of Aesthetics and Practicality

The Gecko Camper Van is a stunning example of how thoughtful design can transform a compact space into a functional and beautiful mobile home. From its stealthy exterior to its vibrant interior, every detail has been carefully considered to create a van that is both practical and stylish. Whether you’re a seasoned van lifer or just starting out, the Gecko Camper Van offers a unique and well-equipped home on wheels.

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