Products listed on this blog contain affiliate links. Learn more here.
Welcome back to the blog! If you're new here, my name is Lauren, and my husband Jason and I are converting our 2019 Ram ProMaster for full-time van life with our two dogs. We're about 75-80% done with our build, and today, we’re tackling one of our last major projects—installing the upper cabinets!
Planning Our Upper Cabinet Layout
Originally, we planned to install upper cabinets across one side of the van and a smaller one on the opposite side. However, once we started measuring, we quickly realized our initial plan wouldn’t work as expected. Instead, we came up with a new design that we love even more!
Here’s our updated layout:
Driver’s side cabinets: 14 inches tall and 14 inches deep.
Passenger’s side cabinets (above the kitchen area): 14 inches tall but only 12 inches deep to prevent the cabinets from feeling too intrusive while cooking.
Open shelving in the middle: We decided to connect the bottom edges of both cabinets in the center, leaving an open space for books or other storage.
Shorter cabinet above the bed: To avoid a cramped feeling while we sleep, we opted for a shorter cabinet rather than extending it all the way across.
Cutting and Assembling the Cabinet Frames
Once we finalized the layout, we moved on to cutting and assembling the frames using 2x2s and 3/4-inch support beams. Our key steps included:
Measuring and cutting all the wood pieces needed for framing.
Assembling the cabinet face frames, making sure they fit properly against the van’s curved walls.
Using Kreg pocket holes and Gorilla Wood Glue for strong and secure joints.
Adjusting for the ceiling angle—we realized that our ceiling wasn’t perfectly straight, so we made some modifications to get everything aligned.
Priming and Painting the Cabinets
Before installing the cabinets, we made sure to sand, prime, and paint them. If you've been following our build, you know we love using KILZ Mold & Mildew Primer to prevent any potential moisture issues. We’ve heard horror stories of mold in van builds, and we’re not taking any chances!
For the paint, we went with Behr Ultra Exterior in Swiss Coffee (eggshell enamel finish). This finish is perfect for van life—it’s easy to clean, not too glossy, and resistant to wear and tear (especially with two dogs!).
What’s Next?
We’re so excited to see these cabinets come together! Next up, we’ll be adding faces and hinges to the cabinets as well as closing off the sides.
If you’re building your own van, let us know in the comments—what’s been the most challenging part for you? Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more van conversion updates!
Building a van from scratch isn’t easy! Here are the top 10 van build mistakes we made converting our 2019 Ram ProMaster and what we’d do differently now that we’re living full-time on the road with our two dogs.
Curious about how much it costs to build out a camper van? Here’s a full breakdown of every dollar we spent converting our van—plus a free downloadable van build budget spreadsheet!
A complete DIY van plumbing guide for your camper van build — including water tank setup, electric pump, water heater, PEX fittings, and pro tips from our real-life experience.
Transitioning to van life takes more than just building a van. We’re sharing our behind-the-scenes process, from budgeting and downsizing to selling our house without a realtor.
Learn how to build shaker cabinet doors for the cabinets in your van conversion! This step-by-step guide covers templates, cabinet faces, side panels, and installation tips to create functional and stylish DIY van cabinets
Adding a Scopema swivel seat to your Ram ProMaster can significantly improve the functionality of your van, allowing you to rotate the seat to create a more open and versatile living space. In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process to install a Scopema swivel seat in your van.
Learn how we built the frames of our upper cabinets in our Ram Promaster van conversion. These frames are lightweight and sturdy for peace of mind.
Discover the pros and cons of the Trelino composting toilet for van life. Learn about its features, ease of use, and whether it's the right choice for your camper van conversion.
Learn how to build a functional kitchen table and install a butcher block countertop in your camper van conversion. Step-by-step guide with tips on sanding, staining, and securing everything in place.
Learn how we built a multi-functional dinette bench with storage in our van conversion! Follow our step-by-step process, tips, and lessons learned as we frame, install, and troubleshoot for a versatile dining, living, and workspace setup.
Learn how to install, secure, and wire the Bodega 65L 12V fridge in your van conversion. Discover the benefits of this budget-friendly fridge, step-by-step wiring instructions, and tips for proper ventilation and mounting. Perfect for DIY van lifers looking to optimize their camper van kitchen setup.
Learn how to install drawer slides in your Ram ProMaster van build with this detailed guide. Discover the tools, steps, and lessons learned to avoid common mistakes and achieve smooth, functional drawers perfect for van life.
Discover everything you need to know about the S&B 34-Gallon Wheel Well Water Tank for Ram ProMaster vans! In this blog, we share an in-depth review of its design and functionality, detailed cleaning instructions, and tips for efficient installation. Whether you're outfitting your van for off-grid adventures or full-time living, this water tank is a game-changer. Learn how it works and decide if it's the right fit for your van build!
In part 2 of our camper van kitchen build, we’re tackling the exciting steps of painting cabinets, securely installing them, and crafting custom drawers from scratch. Follow along as we share tips, lessons learned, and key takeaways for creating a functional and stylish van kitchen. Perfect for DIY van builders and van life enthusiasts!
Learn how we started building our camper van kitchen using ¾-inch birch plywood. Get insights on layout planning, fridge and sink placement, and adding extra support for a sturdy foundation.
Discover how we tackled the challenge of designing and installing our DIY van electrical system. From wiring tips to essential components like lithium batteries and inverters, this guide breaks it down for anyone taking on their own camper van conversion.
Join us as we tackle one of the most exciting steps in our van conversion: building a custom bed frame with storage for our Ram ProMaster. Discover how we chose lightweight, affordable materials, designed a flexible layout, and incorporated a comfortable queen-size mattress for life on the road. Perfect for DIY van builders looking for inspiration and practical tips!
We just moved into our Ram ProMaster full-time and these are the 10 van build features we love most. From layout to storage to comfort, here’s what actually works on the road.