Zenvanz Customs Make Vanlife Zen

ZENVANZ MK1 Van Is The Guide for Awesome Custom Van Builds

Finding zen while living the vanlife is harder than you might imagine. Bryan and Jen Danger, along with their sweetheart yellow lab Karma (RIP), lived the overland life for nearly seven years in four different vans. They both ditched impressive corporate careers for a nomadic life of adventure without deadlines. Bryan is an architectural designer and continued to iterate what he thought would be the perfect four-season overland campervan for the couple’s life on the road. What that turned into is Zenvanz: modular DIY kits that not only look awesome and unique, but are also extremely durable and functional.

What that turned into is Zenvanz: modular DIY kits that not only look awesome and unique, but are also extremely durable and functional.

Zenvanz Begins

After years of turning down offers to buy their vans and/or build other people their own—for fear of losing the freedom that vanlife had given them—a friend talked them into starting a proper business. That friend, Bent Carpenter, brought professional general contractor skills to the table, which complemented Bryan’s design skills and business/marketing acumen.

Zenvanz started by selling DIY install interior cabinet kits for Sprinter vans. Aluminum and bamboo is Zenvanz signature look, with black powdercoated aluminum recently becoming a popular option.

Zenvanz Designs

Cabinets, flooring, and walls all mount into factory mounting points with minimal and similar hardware, making installs super easy with limited tools. The modular and easy install nature of the Zenvanz cabinetry allows for quick and easy changes to the layout of the van based on work, travel, people moving, and gear storage needs.

Cabinets, flooring, and walls all mount into factory mounting points with minimal and similar hardware, making installs easy with limited tools.

With the Zenvanz interior buildout thoroughly designed and tested over years of use and iterations, the company eventually started to offer full custom van buildouts. Bryan and Brent coach each client through the design process to help them build the perfect van for their specific travel needs. They build each van with a “land yacht” ethos, utilizing boat systems that can handle years of rugged and remote overland travel with ease.

Key Questions to Ask Your Prospective Van Builder

Before you hand over your hard-earned cash (and, let’s be honest, your roadtrip dreams) to any camper van builder, it pays to be prepared and inquisitive. Here are some essential questions you’ll want to have in your back pocket before signing on the dotted line:

• What’s Your Experience With My Van Model?
  Not all builders are equally familiar with every van out there. Ask if they have experience working on your specific chassis—be it a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit, or Ram ProMaster.
• Can I See Examples of Your Previous Work?
  Photos of finished builds are nice, but nothing beats stepping into a completed van or browsing a portfolio of projects. Bonus points if you get to chat with a previous client.
• What Materials and Products Do You Use?
  Are they using marine-grade plywood, bamboo, or powder-coated aluminum? Where do they source their hardware and appliances—like Dometic fridges or Webasto heaters?
• How Customizable Is The Design?
  Some builders offer fixed layouts, while others can work magic to create a space tailored to your travel style and storage needs.
• What Is Your Warranty and Support Policy?
  You want to know the build is tough enough to survive remote Baja washboard roads, but if something rattles loose, will the builder have your back?
• How Long Will The Build Take?
  Custom builds can take anywhere from a couple months to longer, depending on scope and parts availability. Get a realistic timeline (and find out what happens if deadlines slip).
• Are Electrical and Plumbing Systems Professionally Installed?
  Ask about their qualifications for installing complex systems—think solar, lithium batteries, or composting toilets. Safety and reliability are critical, especially if you plan to boondock.
• What’s Not Included in My Quote?
  Dig into the contract to spot hidden costs for things like roof racks or additional insulation. Ask for a transparent price breakdown.
• Can You Handle Adventure-Ready, Off-Grid Upgrades?
  If you’re planning any overlanding, check whether upgrades like suspension lifts, off-road tires, and robust water filtration can be included from the start.
• What’s the Process for Mid-Build Changes?
  Vanlife can be unpredictable. Find out if you can shift plans mid-build, and what sort of flexibility (or costs) that might entail.
• Do You Offer Post-Build Support or Maintenance?
  Once you hit the road, you’ll want to be sure there’s someone to call if you strike a mystery rattle in the middle of nowhere.

Asking the right questions early can turn your custom van dreams from a leap of faith into a well-informed adventure—whether you’re planning to roam the Rockies or just swing by your favorite coastal camp spot.

Framing: Building the Backbone

Let’s talk about one of the biggest steps in van building: framing. If the cabinetry and finishes are the personality of your van, then the framing stage is the strong, silent backbone. This is where your rolling dream starts taking real, tangible shape.

During framing, you’re constructing the internal skeleton that will support everything—from your favorite drawer full of AeroPress filters to the walls, bed, and storage cabinets ready to hold hiking boots and dog toys. Using sturdy materials like lightweight aluminum or classic wood (think: the same birch plywood you’d find on a custom Airstream), framing creates the bones that keep your interior secure through thousands of bumps and hairpin turns.

This step isn’t just about nailing a few boards together. Good framing means thinking ahead—strategically planning where electrical wiring, plumbing, and bulky insulation will go (your future self will thank you for it during those chilly Colorado mornings). Consider it a marriage between engineering and daydreaming: each stud and support not only adds strength but also maps out how your van will function and feel.

A well-executed framing job lays the groundwork for a comfortable, safe, and organized rolling home, ensuring every road trip is as zen as a sunrise over the Cascades.

MK1 Van

The van you’re seeing here is the Zenvanz show vehicle, which they’ve dubbed the ‘MK1 Van.’ It is based on a 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 144 4×4 and features the Zenvanz cabinetry kit, some upgraded cabinet modules and accessories, and a full host of off-road capability upgrades.

This van shows potential clients how the company’s DIY cabinet kits look when installed. Therefore, it features some custom options to show the quality of the company’s in-house install work. It’s also available for Zenvanz employees to take out camping on the weekends to experience the lifestyle, test new systems/products, and find areas for improvement.

We got a chance to take this van out into the wild for a photoshoot and play with all its features. We came away impressed with its smart design, comfort, and all-terrain capabilities.

House On Wheels

Of course, the main attraction is the bamboo and aluminum Zenvanz cabinetry kit. On this van the setup includes; galley upper 2 bay, driver-side rear 3 bay, passenger-side rear 2 bay, kitchen galley, 3-panel bed system, divider panel with access door, bedside cubby, sliding door folding gear drying rack, toilet/step stool module, bunk window trims, ceiling slats, and wall panels. It also features a stowable table on a pivot arm that works in concert with the rotating front seats.

Before installing the walls, ceiling, and cabinets all stock penetrations into the van were waterproofed, Kilmat sound deadening was used on all open areas, Low E insulation was installed under the flooring, Amvic reflective foam was put on the walls, and Thinsulate 600 insulation was installed. Lonseal vinyl flooring with aluminum trim and a Flatline step extension at the sliding door create a big, flat, durable, and easy-to-clean living area. CRL Windows were also installed at the galley, sliding door, on both sides of bed, and in the rear doors.

To finish off the interior living space build-out, the Zenvanz team installed an aluminum over-cab shelf and garage area sliding tray, with bike fork mount. These storage solutions optimize all the available cargo area in the van.

Vanlife Systems

After establishing the interior layout/structure came the installation of the living systems. Of course, a comfy bed is first on the list, so a 6-inch memory foam mattress was a necessity. A Quest Overland window blackout shade kit ensures you can get a good night’s sleep in privacy.

Up next was running hot water. A Timberline diesel central air and hot water heater—Zenvanz now installs a Rixens heat/hot water system in new vans—works in concert with a 20-gallon fresh water tank, 7-gallon gray water tank, stainless sink and faucet, and an exterior shower unit.

Besides the kitchen sink the Expo Van also offers homey comforts like a True Induction cooktop and Isotherm 65L fridge. The sink even has a custom Zenvanz cutting board that covers it, offering up more counter space when meal prepping.

All the electrical in the MK1 Van is controlled with a SwitchPro unit—although all new Zenvanz get Garmin Overlander and Powerswitch controllers. A 360W roof-mounted solar array charges the 315 Ah lithium battery system. That system in turn powers the van’s three USB outlets. Additionally, a 3,000W inverter powers three 110V outlets.

Pricing for Popular Van Build Essentials

Wondering what it’ll cost to outfit your rig with some of the top vanlife upgrades? Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect to spend on some of the most popular products:

• Rear Door Storage Panels: Around $240 for a pair, these are perfect for keeping your essentials organized and easy to reach.
• 12-Volt Air Conditioners: Expect prices to hover between $2,000 and $2,500 if you want serious cooling power, like those offered by Nomadic Cooling and similar brands.
• Temperature and Air Quality Sensors: Multi-function environmental sensors, such as the RuuviTag, are budget-friendly at under $40, offering temperature, humidity, motion, and air pressure monitoring.
• 12-Volt Secondary Alternator Electrical Bundles: Advanced charging systems to keep all your electronics running can run you around $2,200.
• Gasoline Heaters: For reliable cabin heat, options like the Webasto Air Top 2000 STC with smart controllers start about $1,450 and can reach up to $2,400 for the higher spec versions and altitude-adjusted models.

No matter which upgrades you choose, there’s a setup for every budget and climate.

Handy Resources for DIY Electric Setups

Curious about how to wire up your own campervan but don’t know where to start? There are plenty of free resources online—yes, even full-blown diagram guides—to get you going. Websites like FarOutRide and Explorist.Life offer detailed, step-by-step electrical schematics specifically for van conversions. They break it down with easy-to-follow charts for planning solar arrays, battery management, and safety fuses.

Additionally, YouTube channels devoted to van builds often share walkthroughs and best practices, so you can follow along while elbows deep in wiring. Whether you’re a total newbie or just looking to double-check your setup, these resources can make DIY electrical less daunting.

Creature Comforts

There’s lots of super bright and warm, 3,000K, LED lighting throughout the interior of the Zenvanz MK1 van. There are dimmable under-cabinet light strips, ceiling light pods, two rear bendy reading lights over the bed, and an underbed light in the ‘garage’ area.

No proper comfortable 4-season campervan would be complete without some sort of toilet system. For the MK1 Van, a Laveo Dryflush porta potty was installed in a small module by the sliding door. This offers a comfortable place to do your business. Plus’ it’s an added seating spot inside the van, a step stool into the bed, and an exterior drop-down table for when the sliding door is open.

Off-Road Goodies

With the interior fully sorted, it was time to tackle the task of making the 4×4 Sprinter off-road adventure ready. First up was getting it rolling right with a Van Compass 2.3 suspension system and 32-inch Falken AT3 tires wrapped on 17-inch Black Rhino Overland wheels. To make those big tires fit properly, Terrawagen fender flares were mounted.

Up front, a CA Tuned Hammerhead front bumper was installed to house a Warn winch and mount Baja Designs off-road driving lights. An Agile Offroad skid plate also protects the bottom of the engine. Rocker protection is achieved via RoamBuilt sliders/steps. On the rear doors an Owl Vans rear tire carrier and ladder are mounted, along with a Sherpa system, which carries traction boards and a shovel.

On top of the van is a minimalist Zenvanz roof rack that holds the solar panels and an extremely impressive, powered, and huge marine-grade Sureshade awning. On the rack is also a 40-inch curved lightbar and a bunch of 6-inch orange Diode Dynamics LED area lights. Finishing off the up-fit is an sPOD system to control all the outside accessories and an ARB compressor to keep the tires at the optimal pressure at all times.

Leveling and Air Pressure Solutions

Tackling uneven campsites or making sure your van sits just right is all part of the adventure. For those occasions when your rig isn’t parked on perfectly flat ground, air tire levelers like the Flat-Jack can give you that crucial adjustment—just slide them under your tires and inflate to get everything on the level.

And when it comes to adjusting tire pressure for sand, rocks, or pavement, carrying a quality portable compressor (like the ARB we bolted in) means you can air down for the rough stuff and pump right back up before hitting the highway. Between portable air levelers and a good compressor, you’ll roll into any site with total confidence—ready for sunset drinks no matter how wild the tilt of the earth beneath your wheels might be.

Nomadic Life Continues

The Dangers maybe got too good at vanlife… So, they took off early in the spirit of the company’s life on new adventures. For the past four years, they’ve been traveling on a 39-foot catamaran in the Caribbean. They continue to strive to find that elusive work/life balance. Bryan continues to personally coach each new client towards the perfect vanlife setup for their needs.

REcently, the Dangers put their boat up for sale in Florida. Now that they’re back on solid land, they are living the van life once again. Meanwhile, they’re striving to continue to enrich other’s lives with the freedoms of vanlife. While their future travels are a bit uncertain, they’ll likely include setting sail in the South Pacific. Plus, their future will no doubt include a bit more overland travels by Zenvanz.

Brent Carpenter keeps production running of both kits and custom vans in Zenvanz’ new, larger, headquarters in Portland, Oregon. Want to check out the MK1 Van and more of Zenvanz impressive builds? You’ll find them at a number of overland and van expos on the west coast throughout the year.

Whether you’re deep into your own van build, curious about off-grid electrical systems, or just hunting for inspiration to fuel your next adventure, Zenvanz has something for everyone. From hands-on installation demos and product walk-throughs to van tours and lifestyle chats, their team is always eager to share tips and stories from the road. Expect to find categories like:

• Electrical systems and solar setups
• Installation guidance and build techniques
• In-depth product reviews
• The latest in van build innovations
• Real-life van lifestyle insights
• Guided tours of custom vans—inside and out

Stop by their booth, chat with the crew, and maybe even catch a podcast recording or two. There’s always something new rolling out of the Zenvanz garage, and these expos are your backstage pass to the action.

You can contact the company through their website at zenvanz.com and follow the Dangers’ nomadic adventures at TheDangerz.com.

Insights from the Blog

Curious about navigating the world of custom van builds? The blog dives deep into the practicalities and pitfalls of finding the right camper van builder for your adventure vehicle—without draining your wallet or your patience. Expect smart tips on what to look for (and what to avoid), including crucial questions to ask before you hand over the keys—or a hefty deposit.

Podcasts explore real-life stories and behind-the-scenes details of ongoing van builds, offering listeners candid advice and lessons learned, whether you’re pondering insulation choices or debating panel van vs. box van conversions. The blog’s trove of resources helps demystify the process, empowering you to collaborate with builders confidently and make informed decisions at every step of your vanlife journey.

UPGRADES

Zenvanz MK1 Van

Platform: 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 144 4×4

Wheels and Tires: 17-inch Black Rhino Overland Wheels, LT265/70R17 Falken AT3 Tires,

Suspension: Van Compass 2.3 Suspension

Camper Upgrades: Zenvanz Cabinetry Kit, Maxxair Vent Fan, CRL T-Vent Window, CRL Fixed Window, CRL Bunk Windows, CRL Rear Door Windows, Sound Deadening & Insulation Throughout, USB Charging Ports & 110-Volt Outlets, LED Interior Lighting, SwitchPro, 315 AH Lithium Battery Pack, 360-Watt Solar Array, Victron Solar Controler, 3,000-Watt Inverter, Victron Battery & Water Monitor, Timberline Central Air & Hot Water, Flatline Step Extension, 20-Gallon Fresh Water Tank, 7-Gallon Gray Water Tank, Exterior Shower Unit, Isotherm 65L Fridge, Sink & Faucet w/Custom Cutting Board, True Induction Cooktop, Aluminum Sliding Tray w/Bike Fork Mount, Shuksan Over-Cab Shelf, 6-inch Memory Foam Mattress, Quest Overland Blackout Shades, CO Alarm, 2-pound Fire Extinguisher

Off-Road Upgrades: RoamBuilt Sliders/Steps, ARB Compressor, Owl Vans Rear Tire Carrier & Ladder, Owl Vanz Sherpa, Zenvanz Roof Rack, Sureshade Awning, Baja Designs LP9 & LP6 Off-Road Driving Lights, 40” Curved Light Bar, Diode Dynamics 6” Load Lights, Terra Wagon Fender Flares, CA Tuned Hammerhead Front Bumper, Warn Zeon 12-s Winch, Front Recovery Point D Shackles, Factor 55 Prolink XXL, Agile Offroad Skid Plate, ARB Tread Pro, SPOD

Other Must-Haves on Our Radar

Of course, even the best-equipped van builds can benefit from a few finishing touches. While some top picks haven’t made it to our shop (yet), they’re still firmly on our “must-consider” list:

• Portable Induction Stovetops – Many vanlifers swear by the flexibility of stand-alone induction cooktops, especially for cooking outside the van.
• Modular Storage Solutions – Stackable crates or rugged bins from companies like Front Runner or DECKED help keep your gear dialed in, whether you’re packing outdoor toys or pantry staples.
• High-Capacity Water Filtration Systems – For those off-grid stints, look to brands like Lifesaver or Berkey for peace of mind with your drinking water.
• Aftermarket Swivel Seat Bases – Both Scopema and SportsCraft offer options that can open up your living space with a quick chair spin.
• Advanced Security Upgrades – Think upgraded alarm systems, disc locks, or even discrete GPS tracking—essential for the modern road warrior.
• Insulated Window Covers – Premium thermal shades from Arctic Tern or VanMade Gear keep your temperature in check and your privacy intact.
• Compact Folding Bikes – Brands like Brompton and Tern offer nifty two-wheeled solutions for urban exploration without eating up precious storage space on board.

Stay tuned—we’re always scouting for parts and gadgets that make your van truly feel like home on wheels.