The allure of a life on the road, unburdened by the constraints of traditional living, has inspired many to seek alternative ways of dwelling.
Among these pioneers are Nicholas and Francesca, a couple who traded their mundane existence in Chicago for an adventurous life in a converted school bus.
Their journey began with a documentary about a couple traversing the United States in a school bus, which sparked their curiosity and led them to question their own lifestyle.
The realization that they didn’t need the excess space in their house, coupled with their desire for freedom and adventure, propelled them towards this unconventional path.
The couple’s dissatisfaction with their jobs and their yearning for a life centered around adventure rather than work, led them to purchase a school bus at an auction.
The bus, which was previously used to transport children in North Carolina, was transformed into a stunning home on wheels. Equipped with solar panels and water tanks, the bus is designed to be completely off-grid, allowing the couple to travel anywhere without sacrificing the comforts of home.
The bus, measuring 38 feet long and 7.5 feet wide, with a 20-inch roof raise, offers ample space for the couple and their three dogs.
The exterior of the bus features storage bins, which house the solar equipment and batteries, freeing up more room inside.
The bus also has an 80-gallon water tank, which only needs to be refilled when the couple returns to civilization.
Inside, the bus exudes a homely ambiance, far removed from its original function. The dashboard has been converted into a cozy couch, providing a comfortable spot for the couple’s dogs to gaze out the window.
A 10-foot couch, which pulls out to form a bed, dominates the living area.
The couch also provides storage space for fresh water and other essentials, ensuring that the couple has everything they need for their off-grid lifestyle.
The kitchen, a crucial part of the bus, reflects the couple’s love for cooking.
It boasts a long countertop, a large stove, and a farmhouse sink, all of which were carefully chosen to create their dream kitchen.
The fridge is cleverly placed underneath the counter, maximizing the available space.
The bus also features a wood-burning stove, which keeps the couple warm during the cold Colorado winters.
The stove, along with the spray foam insulation and the air conditioning unit, ensures that the bus remains comfortable in all seasons.
The couple also installed a composting toilet and a shower with a unique water-saving system, further enhancing the bus’s self-sufficiency.
The back of the bus houses a private bedroom, providing a retreat for the couple when they need some alone time.
The bedroom, like the rest of the bus, is designed to maximize space and functionality.
The couple’s clothes are stored in this area, and the door can be closed to create a separate space from the rest of the bus.
Having lived in the bus for over six months, the couple has adapted well to their new lifestyle.
Despite the initial challenges of starting their journey in the dead of winter, they have learned to tackle problems together, from engine troubles to building furniture.
The total cost of the project, including materials and labor, was just under $60,000, a fraction of what a traditional house in Denver or Chicago would cost.
Nicholas and Francesca’s story shows the freedom and fulfillment that can be found in choosing an unconventional path. Their bus is not just a means of transport, but a home that reflects their personalities and caters to their needs.
It is a space that allows them to live their dream of a life centered around adventure, while still providing the comfort and familiarity of home.
Check out the full home tour in the video below!
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