From Workhorse to Wanderer: A Custom 2023 Sprinter Build for Stone Cold Renos

When Jim, our customer and owner of Stone Cold Renovations, (Caledonia, ON) first walked into our shop, he had a clear vision: convert his 2023 Mercedes Sprinter into a dual-duty vehicle—still a capable work van during the week, but a cozy, roadworthy rig for an East Coast tour this past summer. He also brought in one constraint: keep the original shell (floors, walls, ceiling) intact to preserve the van’s utility for job site work.  We took that challenge and turned it into opportunity. The result? A modular, removable build that feels like a custom RV—but disappears when it’s time to haul materials again.

What We Built

Here’s how we transformed that Sprinter into a liveable, mobile space—without compromising its work-van DNA:

1. Rear Pull-Out 2-Drawer Cabinet for Fridge & Cooking Gear

In the rear cargo area, we installed a sliding double-drawer unit:

• The left drawer houses a compact fridge—pull it out to access contents, slide it back for travel.
• The right drawer is perfect for all kinds of gear and cooking supplies.

This layout keeps heavy gear low (for better vehicle balance) and fully accessible without reaching over or crawling in.

2. 36” Kitchen Cabinet (Battery + Toilet Storage)

This compact kitchen module is deceptively clever:

• One compartment houses the Bluetti battery system, with proper ventilation and access.
• A hidden cubby discreetly stows a portable toilet. No awkward boxes or exposure—just a clean door that blends with the cabinetry.
• The remaining space is outfitted with a countertop, pull out workstation/cutting board and basic food prep storage.

By integrating utilities inside a clean cabinet face, we maintained that simple, clean feel that modern vanlifers love.

3. Two 60” Upper Cabinet for Essentials

Running across both sides of the van, our full-length upper cabinets give Jim space for clothing, toiletries and all those miscellaneous items that can otherwise clutter a build. With slam latches and soft-close hinges, the doors stay secure even on rough roads.

4. Custom Plywood Faceplate to Unify the Bed & Furniture

Though Jim already built the platform bed, we designed and installed a plywood faceplate that ties the bed visually and structurently into our modular furniture system. The result: seamless continuity between what he already had and what we added—no jarring transitions, just a cohesive interior aesthetic.

5. Multipurpose Step 

We topped off the build with our Multipurpose Step, our best-selling accessory that doubles as a stepstool, surface or extra seat. It's modular, light and integrates nicely with the cabinetry, neatly packing flat to 2".

Why This Build Works for Contractor/RV Hybrids

This isn’t just a one-off custom; it speaks directly to van owners who need versatility:

• Reversibility: All furniture is bolted, not glued. Remove or shift pieces and you’re back to a bare cargo van.
• Durable materials: We use the same premium birch plywood and heavy-duty hardware you’ll find in Overland Interiors’ off-the-shelf modular kits. (Our modular kits are marketed for high-roof vans like the Sprinter) 
• Intelligent use of space: Cabinets are sized to fill gaps, not dominate vistas. From hidden toilet spots to battery compartments, everything serves at least two functions.
• Consistent craftsmanship: Even though portions were prebuilt by the client, we elevated the overall finish, fit, and function so the end product feels like a single designer vision.

Ready to Build Your Dual-Purpose Van?

If you own a Sprinter, Transit, ProMaster, or similar van and you’re dreaming of a build that goes from work to wanderlust, let’s make it real.

👉 Browse our furniture and accessories collections for high- and low-roof vans
👉 Request a consultation for a custom van interior
👉 See pricing and specs for items like our kitchenette, upper cabinets, multipurpose step, fridge drawers, and more!

• Share on:
WhatsApp Deel Tweet Pin it Messenger Email