Villeneuve-sur-Lot: with Cabavan, he offers custom-designed and à la carte conversions for vans and campervans.

After training as a carpenter and interior fitter at the Masonic Federation of Agen, this handyman has a "solid foundation" on which he hopes his company, Cabavan – a blend of "cabane" (cabin) and "van" (van) with an Occitan accent – ​​will find its way to success. "There's a certain appeal for me, linked to the volume management issues of my previous profession and the development of the sector. It's a combination of opportunities that led me here..."

A field of possibilities with almost no limits

His small business, since September, has been located on Rue du 8-Mai, in a warehouse behind the Franzin garage. The craftsman began by making workbenches and custom worktops, and installing appropriate lighting. Now, he's tackling his first project: a Mercedes van with an empty space behind its three front seats, just waiting to be optimized to transform the vehicle into a mobile home.

At this stage, the possibilities are almost limitless. For now, Thomas Verdier has installed a skylight and a second side window. The interior bodywork has been insulated with sprayed cork to eliminate thermal bridges. Hemp, or expanded cork this time, will be applied as a second layer. The conversion specialist offers customized work and a wide selection of materials, preferably eco-friendly. Regarding equipment, he asserts that he can easily compete with manufacturers: "We can offer prices that are consistent with theirs, even for custom work. With the same equipment, or even superior quality materials."

Insurance policies taken into account

With van life booming, many owners have customized their interiors themselves. Thomas Verdier adds a professional touch by changing the vehicle's classification from utility to leisure. This upgrade is appreciated by insurance companies and mandatory if fixed systems, such as kitchen equipment or heating, are installed. This will be the case in his first project (with hot water supplied by solar panels), and he will document its progress on social media. "Once finished, it will serve as my calling card at trade shows and will be available for rent," Thomas Verdier envisions.

Cabavan's prices start at around €5,000 for basic furnishings and electrical installation. The final cost can then climb considerably higher. Regardless of the option chosen, patience is key. Thomas Verdier handles everything himself…