Nicole and Edin of Zion Dreams have redefined mobile architecture with their 2022 Sprinter 3500 XD (170″ Extended). This “one of one” build pushes the boundaries of conversion design, featuring a radical “reverse layout,” a CNC-rendered canyon ceiling, and a massive, tiltable “solar sail.” It is a professional-grade masterpiece that balances high-concept aesthetics with heavy-duty off-grid specs.
High-Tech Foundations: Smart Tint and Micro Cement
The build utilizes a 2022 Sprinter 3500 XD chassis, chosen for its 170″ Extended wheelbase and payload capacity. To maintain a high-end feel without the weight penalty of traditional masonry, the builders leaned into two innovative materials:
- Smart Tint Window Film: Applied to the windows, this film switches from clear to 100% opaque with a single click. It provides instant privacy and security without the clutter of physical window covers, and even from the outside, the interior remains completely invisible.
- Micro Cement Finish: Applied over a flexible plywood substrate, this thin-layer cement provides a “luxurious and calm spa feeling” throughout the van. It is lightweight, crack-resistant, and offers an industrial-chic aesthetic that traditional builds can’t match.
The Reverse Layout: Why Flipping the Floorplan Wins
While most builds place the kitchen by the sliding door, Zion Dreams opted for a “Reverse Layout,” positioning the living and sleeping quarters at the front. This design choice prioritizes the view; whether you are working at the swivel-mounted Lagoon table or lounging in bed, the focal point is the open side door rather than a galley.
- Multifunctional Entrance: The entrance features a custom seat/coffee table mounted on 500 lb drawer slides. It provides a massive storage reservoir and doubles as a step-down from the bed to the outside.
- Tactical Security Partition: A rigid partition wall separates the cab from the living space. For peace of mind, it features an electronic “lockout” button that disengages the exterior handle from the driving side, ensuring total security for solo travelers or stealth campers.
Sleeping Under a Slot Canyon
The van is a versatile sleeper, capable of a bunk-style configuration for guests. The primary sleeping area is a Queen-sized Happy Jack elevator bed that lowers from the ceiling, while a secondary slide-out bench underneath converts into a guest bed.
- The Canyon Ceiling: This is the build’s artistic centerpiece. Inspired by the slot canyons of Zion National Park, the ceiling was digitally rendered and CNC-machined from high-density foam before being hand-sanded and finished in micro cement.
- Celestial Views: The ceiling features integrated lighting and full-length skylights designed to mimic the natural curves of looking up through a canyon. For climate comfort, a MaxxAir fan is positioned directly above the bed to maximize airflow.
A Chef’s Kitchen with Electromagnetic Security
Designed for full-time culinary use, the kitchen features an 8-foot L-shaped countertop made of solid Hickory wood.
- Premium Fixtures: The setup includes an induction stovetop, a Dometic CRX 110 fridge, and a deep, hand-hammered house-sized sink sourced from Morocco, complete with gold hardware and a dedicated filtered water system.
- The Integrated Herb Garden: A removable planter box is built into the counter. It features a clever exterior drainage system—you can water your herbs using the kitchen faucet, and any excess drains directly “out the bottom” of the van.
- Smart Storage Locks: To eliminate rattling and accidental openings, the drawers use electromagnetic locks. These automatically engage when the engine is running, though a manual override button on the control panel allows access while idling.
The “Spa” Bathroom and Hidden Toilet
The rear wet bath serves as a mudroom, allowing Nicole and Edin to wash off gear or mud before entering the main living space.
- Dual Vanity Luxury: In a “game changer” for van life, the bathroom features a dedicated second vanity and sink. This allows for a spa-like morning routine with a custom full-size mirror and gold hardware, completely separate from the kitchen prep area.
- The Hidden Laveo: To maximize floor space, the Dry Flush Laveo toilet is housed in a garage compartment and slides forward only when needed. The room is enclosed by a retractable Nautilus door and includes a dedicated MaxxAir fan for moisture control.
Off-Grid Power: The 1,400W “Solar Sail”
The technical heart of this Sprinter is its “Solar Sail,” a tiltable, roof-mounted array engineered by Landship Customs. These panels are fully walkable, allowing the roof to function as a viewing deck.
- Electrical Specs:
- 800 Amp hours of battery power.
- 1,400 Watts of tiltable solar power.
- Full Victron control system for power management.
- Climate Systems:
- Cruising Comfort AC: Nicole notes, “This thing actually cools down the van in scorching hot temperatures.”
- Timberline Hydronic System: This unit provides forced-air heat, on-demand hot water, and radiant heated floors—a true luxury spec for four-season overlanding.
Exterior Armor and Overlanding Gear
Wrapped in a high-quality APA exterior film, the van is protected by Backwoods front and rear bumpers.
- Access & Storage: A Backwoods ladder leads to the walkable roof. The rear is outfitted with a Flatline Van Co tire carrier and cargo platform, which holds a Sandy Vans boost box for extra gear.
- Connected Living: For remote work, a Starlink system is securely stored in a designated garage drawer. Exterior comfort is rounded out by a motorized Fiamma F45s awning.
A Masterclass in Luxury Off-Grid Living
The Zion Dreams Sprinter is a rare “one of one” build that successfully bridges the gap between artistic sculpture and rugged utility. With its hand-sanded canyon ceiling, 1,400W Landship Customs solar array, and radiant heated floors, it represents the pinnacle of professional-grade conversion.
Nicole and Edin are currently offering this specific van for sale. For inquiries or to see their future builds, follow them on social media at @nicole.and.edden.
