From Sticks-and-Bricks to a Cozy Tiny House Design
In 2021, my husband and I made a bold decision: We sold 90% of our belongings, left traditional housing behind, and embraced life in an RV. For years, the typical “sticks-and-bricks” lifestyle left us feeling stuck, whether it was renting under frustrating contracts or knowing a traditional mortgage wasn’t for us. After plenty of research and some soul-searching, we found freedom—on wheels.
Our RV, a 2015 Forest River Vengeance Toy Hauler (lovingly named “Big Perm”), became our blank canvas. It wasn’t easy. Remodeling her into a functional, cozy tiny house took time, creativity, and a little sweat equity. But the reward? A beautiful tiny house on wheels that feels uniquely ours.
This journey taught us how to adapt, decorate intentionally, and embrace small-space living. If you’re dreaming of a tiny house design or curious about RV life, I’ll share the lessons, transformations, and joys of turning an RV into a true “home sweet home.”
RV to Tiny Home Conversion
1. Brighter is Better
RV manufacturers love dark interiors—I have no idea why. In a small space, darkness only makes it feel cramped. My first rule: Go bright. I painted every inch of Big Perm and used wallpaper where paint wouldn’t work. White walls, light textures, and soft accents immediately made our tiny house feel open and airy—far from the “cave on wheels” stereotype.
2. Adapt to Your Needs
One of the best parts of RV living is flexibility, but it often takes a little creativity. For example:
- The Dishwasher: A countertop dishwasher transformed my daily routine and quality of life.
- The Shower: We removed the heavy glass doors, added a curved shower rod, and hung a waffle curtain. The result? A lighter, cleaner, more spacious shower experience.
- Furniture: Why did our RV come with four recliners? We didn’t need them. Instead, I removed two and built a rustic coffee and wine bar—perfect for our farmhouse-style dream.
Creating Our Farmhouse Tiny House on Wheels
I love a farmhouse-style home—ship-lap, linen textures, and rustic charm. Who says you can’t have that on wheels? From hardwood-style floors to a cozy linen headboard, I made our RV reflect our style. When you’re living tiny, every inch matters, so every decision has to fit your needs and taste.
The best part? No property manager’s rules to follow. It’s our home, our rules.
The Reward of RV Living
One year later, we’re about to celebrate our first anniversary of full-time RV life, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Every day, I look forward to coming home to our tiny house on wheels—a space we built with love, creativity, and intention.
If you’re considering RV living or dreaming about your own tiny house design, I say: Go for it. It’s hard work, but the freedom and joy are worth every moment.
What about you? Are you a full-time RVer, or do you dream of this lifestyle? Share your questions or experiences in the comments—I’d love to hear your story!
