My next step is to attach the kitchen “lid” with a piano hinge.

I decided I want it to hinge from both directions, so I can reach into the food storage from inside the van if I want to. I spent some time playing with ideas for how that might work, and I came up with this double hinged framework. There is an E-shaped framework of 1x3s that hinge at the back, and then another set of hinges from the E sticks to the plywood lid to allow it to open from the inside. Once again, pocket screws to the scene! And I added some flat metal bracing, which both levels it with the screw plate on the front and makes it sturdier.

Also, I added 1/4″ plywood to the back of the pony wall behind where the bed will go. That will provide a little space between the studs on the kitchen side of the wall. On the “bedroom” side of the pony wall I wove some paracord across the opening to hold little things in a handy spot.

This framework method keeps the weight down. I’ll mostly open it from the rear, which requires opening both layers, and I don’t want it to get too heavy.

And, as you can see, the drawer is finished and installed! It’s going to be so great to have a drawer for small things I want to keep handy, like silverware, salt and pepper, utensils, a lighter.

Also, I added a 1/4″ plywood panel to the right side of the framework, to provide some separation in the well. That gives me a separate space to the right of the framing where things will stay put.