Per your original thoughts, feng shui embodies the energy, flow, and visual space in living spaces. I also dislike bathroom stalls built inside vans. Before I found my first rig, my first build-out plan was to install a 5’ shower pan across the back of the van, install a toilet on top of the shower pan, and use cheap shower curtains to close off the space when in use and pull the curtains to the side when not in use. I was going to build an elevator bed in the same space, anticipating it not to be possible to use the bed and the bathroom at the same time.
Then I bought George. My ‘92 GMC’s short wheelbase (110”) completely got by me for months and the fiberglass roof is rather a low one. Also, there’s cabinetry taking up all the headroom at the back where I originally planned the bathroom set up and it’s not obvious how to remove the cabinetry without destroying the lovely existing upholstery.
Eventually I decided my build-out would be inspired by a gypsy vardo, keeping the bed widthwise across the back. Because of the lack of space, I’m going to eventually set up my toilet on a drawer that will pull out from under the bed or possibly a small bench, keeping the visual space as open as I can. George has some nice picture windows curtained with lush, brown velvet. It would be a shame to block them.
Back to your point, I totally get where you’re coming from. I hope I gave you some ideas and philosophy to arrive at your own solutions. Do you want to have your kitchen counter cover your wall? Or are you just trying to make a bathroom? Do you need that level of privacy within your van? How often will you be accompanied inside? How conventional does it have to be for your comfort level?
P.S. The best bathroom build I’ve seen was in a van featured in a YouTube video. The guy had it built inside what looked like a kitchen counter, but the sides unfolded upwards and outwards snd locked into place. I’m not sure I’ll be able to find that video again, but I’ll look for it later.
