We sold our smaller camper and purchased a slightly bigger camper. We purchased a used 2018 Grand Design Imagine 2600RB and really like the size (for two of us and our dog Daisy) and layout.
Step 1: Removed the Dinette
We are always thinking of resale value and did not want to do anything that diminished its longterm value. So, we carefully removed the dinette. We started with the cushions, and then the most obvious pieces one at a time. We stored this in our attic (keeping for resale value).
Step 2: Electrical Issues
Notice in the picture below the wires and electrical outlet in the dinette. 
Because there were two outlets in the dinette, there were two holes in the wall and in the floor where electrical wires were coming through.
Neal is really good at electrical work in a house but in a camper made us a little nervous. We did not want to start moving wires, especially because we cannot get to the undercarriage of our camper without creating more issues.
So . . . we used this obstacle as an opportunity . . . and created a charging station!
Step 3: Creating a Charging Station (Creating Two New Outlets)
We built a box to house the wires, hide the holes in the floor and wall, and where we would install two new outlets.
We used a piece of wood paneling that was on the inside of the dinette for the front of the box. (In other words, if we reinstalled the dinette, we could replace it with another piece of paneling because it would not be visible.)
We used another thin piece of wood (cabinet grade paneling) we had from another project. for the sides and top of the box.
Step 4: Painting the Wood to Match the Existing Cabinets
I used a combination of brown, black, and yellow acrylic paint I had in my statch to paint these wood pieces to match the existing paneling. Because of so many DIY projects, I have gotten pretty good at matching colors and textures.
On the left in the picture below is the paneling and the right is the piece I painted to match/blend with the paneling.
Step 5: Installing the Box and Outlets
Using a jigsaw, Neal cut two rectangular holes for the outlets in the front of the box. He then reconnected the outlets.
He used a nailgun to finish installing the box.
Below is a picture of the final box (charging station) after installing the outlet covers.
Step 6: Purchasing Table and Chairs
We purchased a dropleaf table and folding chairs from Target. We actually bought four chairs but typically just take two when it is just the two of us (and Daisy) camping.
Step 7: Patching Holes
We had a few holes in the wall where the side of the dinette was screwed into the wall. We purchased some tan filler to fill in these holes.
Other thoughts:
Having a table, especially a dropleaf table gives us several options for furniture arrangement. We can move the table in the middle of this area and use all four chairs or push the table next to the wall and just use two chairs.
This gives us plenty of room for Daisy to have her own spot for sleeping, which was our original reason for removing the dinette.
Having the charging tables works great for charging phones and laptops. We can actually tuck our phones and laptops behind the theatre chairs while charging.
We are so glad we removed our dinette and love the space and look of having a table and chairs. Daisy likes this too!
Let us know if what you think of if you have any questions by commenting below.
To see how we installed a sticky tile backsplash in our camper kitchen area, click HERE.
Great Reno! Where did you find the table?
Hey Pat,
Thanks for the affirmation! We really love it.
We purchased a dropleaf table and folding chairs from Target. I added links in my response.
Suzanne
Hi folks…. really like your idea as our dinette just takes up space when our dog could be stretched out!!!LOL Our rig is much like yours and been thinking of ways to replace the dinette. How is the table holding up so far…. is it pretty sturdy??…. think about making ours a stand alone dining room table/ office space
We have no regret and glad we did this. The table is very sturdy and gives us more space and flexibility.
How do you like the table so far?
We LOVE our table! We strap it down really good when we travel and use cut swim noodles on the edges in case it bumps the wall, but we are so happy we did this! It allows us a lot of flexibility and a place for Daisy to sleep.
Nice! How do you secure the table and chairs when you are traveling?
Thanks,
Suzanne
Hey Suzanne,
I like your first name!
That is a great question!
There are two built-in anchors in the floor with a strap that was for securing the original table; we use these same anchors and straps to secure the new table. We also cut a slit in a water noodle and slide it on the end of the table in case it hits the wall when we travel. If we did not have anchors on the floor, I would turn the table upside down, put foam water noodles on all four edges, and wedge in place with foam or blankets.
We wrap the folding chairs in blankets and stow them in the storage compartment under our bed.
I hope this helps!
Suzanne
Do you still have the old booth, if so are you willing to sell it?
Hey Michelle,
We do still have the booth. We are leaning towards keeping it in case we resell our camper down the road and the new owners want to reinstall it. We live in Alabama. Where do you live in case we did want to sell it? Also curious as to what you would use it for – – install in a camper? Just curious as to other people’s projects…
I will also email you.
Suzanne
We have a table and four chairs and want to replace them with a booth. Do you know where we can find used booths?
Hey Lauren,
I wonder if your camper manufacturer sells these. You might want to inquire with them. Otherwise, I am not sure.
What are you doing with the table and chairs… I want to take out my booth and I’m looking for one
We took out our dinette booth, and replaced it with two recliners. We also had to made a box to hide the wiring etc. We were fortunate enough to tour the factory and they gave us scrap pieces of paneling that matched. We now eat off from TV Trays. The wood of the trays also match our interior. It is just my husband and I and our little dog it works real well and we love it!
Shari,
I am so glad you shared this with me (and my readers). Good for your guys! That sounds like works great for you guys!
Happy Camping!
Suzanne
Might you be able to provide the measurements for the box and how you attached to the wall?
Hey Wendy,
The dimensions are 8 inches tall, 3 inches deep, and 18 inches long. This was the size we needed it to be to cover the holes in the floor and house both of the outlets. We actually screwed the bottom of the box to the floor (and not the wall). I hope this helps.
Suzanne
I see the de mentions for the box. What size lumber did you use to make the box?
Willie,
We used cabinet-grade plywood to build the box. I hope this helps.
Suzanne