A 175-Square-Foot RV Was Updated But Kept Its Cool ’70s Vibes

published May 3, 2021

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Name: Jessy Muller and cat, Moonchi
Location: On the road
Type of home: 1978 Dodge Commander RV
Size: 175 square feet
Years lived in: 3.5 years, owned

Credit: Jessy Muller

Dining room features '70s decor and colors.

Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: My home on wheels is a 1978 Dodge Commander motorhome that I purchased for $1,900. I had no previous experience with carpentry, plumbing, electrical, or even RVs before diving in head-first with this rig. I spent a little over a year bringing it back to life and remodeling it to better suit full-time living. I hit the road in October of 2017 and have been traveling around the U.S. ever since!

Credit: Jessy Muller

A spare bed, accented by vintage handmade lace, pulls down for guests.

I’ve learned how to be my own mechanic as well, which is almost necessary if you live in a 43-year-old vehicle. I’ve really enjoyed updating everything while still keeping the ’70s vibes throughout. Fun items like macrame, a vintage radio, plaid pillows, and a shag rug really help with the overall vintage look. My personality, my rig, and this lifestyle are perfect for slow living, and I’ve never been happier!

Credit: Jessy Muller

Bedroom is surrounded in huge windows, letting in all the beautiful views.

I’ve always had a fondness for vintage things and an appreciation for the stories they must carry. Being a creative person and a general DIYer has allowed me to give this old rig new life. Living on the road has a lot of uncertainty, so it’s truly a gift to have such a comfortable and relaxing place to lay my head every night. The ’70s colors are calming, and almost everything in here has soul. Many things I’ve either made myself, picked up on my travels, thrifted, or are family treasures.

Credit: Jessy Muller

Bedroom has an inviting queen-size bed with vintage pillows and a linen duvet. Removable daisy wallpaper at the head and foot of the bed adds a fun and earthy feel.

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Cozy-Boho-Vintage-Hippie-Grandma

Credit: Jessy Muller

Original vintage mirror was saved and moved to the bedroom to open the space up even more. Decor that hangs from the ceiling can be taken down easily before driving.

What is your favorite room and why? The bedroom, hands down. I love reading, napping, relaxing, and looking out the gigantic windows (and at my very cute daisy wallpaper) in this space! It really feels like an incredibly comfortable sun porch. I can stargaze at night from the comfort of my bed… I mean, what else could you ask for!?

Credit: Jessy Muller

Kitchen has a four-burner stovetop, oven, fridge, and freezer.

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? I bought a little wicker basket for $1 at the thrift store and turned into a hanging fruit basket.

Credit: Jessy Muller

Bathroom has a corrugated aluminum accent wall, Nature’s Head composting toilet, and room for storage.

Any advice for creating a home you love? Go with your heart, and make it a labor of love! If you feel strongly about something, you will find a way to make it work.

Credit: Jessy Muller

Full shower with decorative aluminum on the ceiling.

This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.

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