A Totally Custom, Teeny Tiny Prison Bus Is Now a Mobile Home

Ben and Meag Poirier’s transformation of a retired prison bus into a cozy, mobile tiny home is a remarkable example of creativity and resourcefulness. Their journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, has captured the imagination of many who dream of a simpler, more adventurous lifestyle. In this article, we delve into the details of their bus conversion, exploring the inspiration, design, and functionality that make their home on wheels a testament to ingenuity and dedication.

The Genesis of a Rolling Home

Ben and Meag’s tiny home began as a 31-foot 1989 Chevy B6P, once a mobile command centre for the Sheriff’s Department in Fairfax County, Virginia. Acquired from an eccentric gentleman in Massachusetts, the bus had a forbidding exterior with faded black paint and prison bars on the windows. Ben and Meag saw potential in its sturdy structure despite its intimidating appearance.

Their vision transformed the bus into a welcoming space, removing the prison elements and infusing them with warmth and character. The bus now features a craftsman style with industrial accents, bright colours, and vintage materials, reflecting the couple’s personalities and passions.

Maximizing Space in a Tiny Home

Living in a 165-square-foot space requires careful planning and design to ensure functionality and comfort. Ben and Meag’s bus is a testament to the beauty of purposeful design. Every element in their home serves a function or holds sentimental value, contributing to a lived-in, cozy atmosphere.

Key features include a miniature wood stove that serves as the heart of their home, providing warmth and charm. The bus’s interior is adorned with reclaimed materials, each with its own story, from the kitchen table to the bathtub.

Innovative Solutions for Tiny Living

One of the standout features of their tiny home is the custom-built bathtub/shower. Constructed from a reclaimed southern yellow pine floor joist from the Quincy, Massachusetts, shipyard, the tub showcases Ben’s craftsmanship and dedication. The tub’s rustic charm is complemented by an antique brass faucet, creating a unique and functional space for relaxation.

Another innovative aspect is their off-grid solar setup, which powers their lights, refrigerator, fans, and kitchen appliances. This system allows them to boondock in remote areas, enhancing their freedom and flexibility.

Overcoming Challenges

Living in a tiny home on wheels presents unique challenges, from dealing with cold weather to managing space constraints. Ben and Meag’s biggest challenge is the northeast winter, where prolonged single-digit temperatures can be tough. To combat this, they travel to warmer climates during the winter months.

Space constraints also pose a challenge, especially when entertaining guests. Their solution is to embrace their home’s open concept, even if it means stepping outside for privacy during bathroom breaks.

The Heart of Their Home

Ben and Meag’s home is filled with personal touches that reflect their journey and experiences. Their favourite spot is the living room facing the wood stove, where they enjoy morning smoothies and coffee. The bus is adorned with items that hold special meaning, from the driftwood whale made by Meag’s dad to the vintage mugs and antique light fixtures.

Their home is a living space and a reflection of their values and lifestyle, emphasizing sustainability, creativity, and a deep connection to their surroundings.

Conclusion

Ben and Meag Poirier’s bus conversion is more than just a home; it’s a testament to the power of vision, determination, and love for adventure. Their story inspires others to pursue their dreams, no matter how unconventional. Through careful design and innovative solutions, they have created a unique and functional tiny home that embodies their spirit and passion for life on the road.

Sources

Breaux, A. (2019, December 19). A totally DIY, teeny tiny prison bus is an incredibly cozy home. Apartment Therapy. Retrieved October 26, 2021, from https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/tiny-home-prison-bus-tour-262266.

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