A family with two very young children took on a big project: converting a school bus into a home.
The bus, named Sanctuary or Frank, has a thoughtful design that accommodates the needs of their two young children, including an adorable bunk space, a car seat area for when the bus is moving, and storage for their downsized toy collection.
The family’s journey into the world of tiny living began in Sweden, where they built a tiny house out of an old job site trailer.
After selling the tiny house, they decided to embark on a new adventure by converting a school bus into their next home on wheels.
The bus, named Sanctuary or Frank, is a 2001 Thomas Built MVP Safety Liner with a CAT engine.
The family purchased the bus for $11,000 while still in Sweden and spent about the same amount on the rest of the build.
The bus was already painted white, and the previous owner had removed all the windows, installed metal panels, and added new custom RV windows.
The family decided to keep the design simple and painted the bus green with yellow accents.
The bus is equipped with four 200-watt solar panels mounted on a steel frame, which can be tilted for optimal sun exposure.
The bus is entirely off-grid, with the only external needs being propane and water refills. The bus also underwent some engine work, costing almost $3,000, to ensure it runs smoothly.
Inside the bus, the family has a control panel area where they can work on their computers.
Ben, an architect, and Mia, a copywriter, can work on the road using a portable power station. The solar setup was initially a bit daunting, but the family managed to figure it out.
The family wanted to keep the front of the bus open so that everyone can see out while driving.
The interior design of the bus is inspired by a natural forest vibe, with pink accents adding a touch of color.
The kids’ area includes toys, cloth diapers, and books. Both children are diaper-free, so the family doesn’t have to worry about doing laundry in their tiny hand-powered washer every day.
The family has adopted a minimalist approach to their toy collection, getting rid of plastic items and things the children didn’t like. They plan to rotate the toys to keep the kids engaged.
The family’s journey into tiny living has been a learning experience, and they have embraced the challenges and joys that come with it.
They have found that living in a small space requires careful planning and thoughtful design to accommodate the needs of their young children.
The family’s previous experience building a tiny house in Sweden helped them navigate the intricacies of designing a small space.
They found the school bus conversion to be more enjoyable, as they had a better understanding of the details involved in creating a functional and comfortable tiny home.
The family’s school bus conversion showcases the possibilities of tiny living, even with young children.
Their story serves as an inspiration for others considering a similar lifestyle, showcasing that with careful planning and creativity, tiny living can be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.
Check out the full home tour in the video below!
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