Embarking on a school bus conversion, or “Schoolie,” is an exciting journey that combines creativity, innovation, and a bit of elbow grease. One of the most crucial aspects of this transformation is designing a functional, comfortable living space within the confines of a school bus. Today, we delve into the thought process behind planning the kitchen and living area layout of a Schoolie, ensuring every inch of space is utilized to its fullest potential.
The Kitchen: A Blend of Functionality and Comfort
The kitchen design started with envisioning the sink area, complete with storage for pans beneath and a tube nearby, ensuring practicality in the kitchen’s workflow. Adjacent to the sink, the concept of a pantry was introduced, offering ample storage for food and kitchen essentials. The most innovative feature, however, was the idea of integrating the shower within the kitchen space, concealed beneath a lift-up butcher block. This design choice not only saves space but also adds a unique, multipurpose function to the kitchen area.
The Living Space: Openness and Versatility
Moving on to the living area, the design emphasizes openness and versatility. The initial idea featured a closet for storage, with the remaining space kept open to avoid a cramped feeling. The concept of maintaining an open area with a bar was favored for its ability to offer a seamless transition from the kitchen to the living space, fostering an environment of inclusivity and interaction.
The Shower Dilemma: A Creative Solution
The challenge of incorporating a shower without compromising the openness of the living space led to the consideration of various configurations. The possibility of using a round tub, surrounded by a 360-degree shower curtain and topped with a countertop when not in use, was discussed. This solution offered a compromise between space-saving and functionality, ensuring the shower didn’t dominate the living area.
The Countertop: Final Touches
The selection of the countertop became a pivotal moment in the kitchen design process. The chosen piece was slightly wider and shorter than initially planned, but it perfectly fit the space without needing significant adjustments. This serendipitous find underscored the importance of flexibility and adaptability in a Schoolie build. The chosen wood color added warmth and coherence to the overall aesthetic, aligning with the vision of creating a welcoming, homey environment.
Conclusion: A Collaborative Effort
Designing the kitchen and living space in a Schoolie build is a collaborative effort, requiring input, creativity, and the willingness to adapt. This journey highlights the importance of maintaining an open mind and embracing the unique challenges and opportunities presented by converting a school bus into a living space. The result is a personalized, functional, and comfortable home on wheels, ready for adventures and making memories.
As we continue to document our Schoolie build, stay tuned for more updates and insights into turning a school bus into a dream home. Your support and interest inspire us to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible within the confines of a school bus, transforming it into a testament to creativity, sustainability, and the spirit of adventure.
We are currently helping our daughter’s Skoolie build. We have been watching lots of Skoolie conversation videos and all are so inspiring!! Now it’s our time to get her dream a real thing! #skoolie #diy #thingswedoforourkids