Last Updated on March 20, 2025
Meet Nicole and her charming campervan, Lemon. Nicole's journey into van life started with a bold decision: to build her own tiny home on wheels. Despite her initial fears, especially about the electrical work, she dived into countless YouTube tutorials and emerged victorious. "I refuse to live my life scared," she declares, embodying the spirit of adventure. Her story is not just about overcoming fears but also about crafting a space that perfectly suits her lifestyle. In a video from Tiny Home Yours, we explore the seven standout features of Nicole's van that make it a true home on wheels.
1. The Spacious Kitchen
Nicole's love for cooking is evident in her van's kitchen. "One of the goals was to have a really big kitchen," she says, and she certainly achieved that. The kitchen boasts ample counter space, a three-burner cooktop, and even an oven. "I'm still experimenting with the RV oven," she admits, adding a touch of humor to her culinary adventures. The kitchen is so well-equipped that it might make some home kitchens jealous!
2. Clever Storage Solutions
Nicole has masterfully utilized every inch of space for storage. "I did a recessed spice rack," she explains, showcasing her practical yet stylish solution for her cooking essentials. With a full-sized refrigerator and plenty of drawers, there's a spot for everything. "Some think this is a pantry; it is not," she quips, revealing her closet hidden in plain sight. It's like a game of hide-and-seek with your stuff!
3. The Cozy Bedroom
The bedroom in Nicole's van features a queen-sized bed that converts into a U-shaped bench. "I feel like it's a controversial thing to have a bed that converts," she notes. While she admits she doesn't convert it often, the flexibility is a huge plus. "It doesn't take long to convert, that's not the problem," she laughs, hinting at the occasional laziness we all experience. It's the perfect setup for both work and relaxation.
4. The Full-Size Shower
Nicole's van includes a full-size shower, a rare luxury in van life. "I hate going to the bathroom in public," she confesses, making the shower a crucial feature. With a 30-gallon water tank and a 2.5-gallon water heater, she ensures she can shower regularly. "I don't want to jinx myself," she jokes about her real tile installation, which has held up remarkably well. It's like having a mini spa on wheels.
5. Efficient Electrical System
Powering her mobile lifestyle is a robust electrical system. "I was very scared of working on the electrical part of it," Nicole recalls. However, she now has a 3,000-watt inverter, two 100 amp lithium batteries, and solar panels. "YouTube University for a reason," she says, crediting her education to online resources. It's a system so advanced it could probably power a small village—or at least a very well-lit campsite.
6. Multipurpose Furniture
Nicole's van features multipurpose furniture, like a drawer that doubles as a picnic table. "I wanted to get back into fishing," she shares, revealing hooks under the bench for her fishing rod. The van's design is a testament to her ingenuity and love for the outdoors. "It's a weird thing," she laughs, but it works perfectly. It's like having a Swiss Army knife, but in furniture form.
7. The Inviting Living Space
The living area in Nicole's van is designed for comfort and functionality. "I didn't want to get super creative or crazy with the design," she says, preferring a simple galley layout. The openness of the space makes it feel much larger than it is. "I found van life on YouTube," she reminisces, highlighting how her research paid off. It's a living space that feels like home, no matter where the road takes her.
Nicole's journey is a testament to overcoming fears and embracing adventure. Her van, Lemon, is a beautifully crafted home that reflects her personality and needs. Each feature tells a story of creativity, practicality, and a bit of humor.
Get the full van tour on video below: