TERA VANS® creates adventure-ready van conversions inspired by a lifelong passion for nature and fine woodworking. With a focus on rich, comfortable interiors and thoughtful design, we blend craftsmanship with the outdoors—creating vans that let you explore, unwind, and reconnect with nature, comfortably.
MEET THE BUILDER
Hey, I’m Alfredo Chocano, the founder of TERA VANS®. My journey into van building started with a simple idea—to carve a new path. With a background in woodworking, photography, and design, I’ve always loved working with my hands to bring ideas to life. Over the last 15 years, I’ve spent countless hours learning, experimenting, and perfecting my crafts, becoming entirely self-taught through hands-on experience (and hundreds of hours at YouTube University).
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Craftsmanship, quality, and adventure are at the core of everything I create. Every van I build is a reflection of that passion—designed with care, precision, and a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. But these vans aren’t just products to me; they’re a way to help people reconnect with nature, embrace the unknown, and experience the freedom of the road—all while staying connected to the comforts of a home.
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I believe every detail matters, and I take pride in crafting spaces that are both functional and beautiful. At TERA VANS™, we don’t just build vans—we create experiences, designed for adventure and built with heart.
How'd we get here.
November, 2017
My first set of van designs were created in Photoshop. At the time I was building my photography business and wanted to build a van that would take me across the Americas. Although it never went through, the seed was planted.
March, 2020
Covid hits. During this time I really dove deep into my fine woodworking business. I had this rad little bungalow in Santa Monica with my first tiny garage workshop in my alley were I created hardwood tables, dressers, desks, boxes, cutting boards and custom commissions.
November, 2020
While at a bonfire celebrating with friends the decision was made, it was time to leave Santa Monica and dive back into the concept of living out of a van.
December, 2020
During the research phase of building out my own van I noticed the demand and opportunities for unique custom van conversions. I scrapped the idea of my own van and switched gears to bring my woodworking skills and designs into the van-life world.
July, 2021
The first van was sold.
March, 2021
I jumped. Leaving behind my apartment and my life in boxes, I moved into my uncles abandoned warehouse with an old RV and my tools in hand. The work begins.