People typically picture their golden years as a time to slow down – but that doesn’t mean you’ve got to stay in one place!
Meet Clare, a vibrant artist in her sixties. Her “passion for travel, photography, and photographic art” has her literally on the road with her Fiat Ducato Maxi.
Solar power, lithium, and a turbo diesel engine are what get this 65-year-old lady on the move and off the grid.
In a video from Jordan Osmand, she gives a tour of her amazing tiny home on wheels.
Clare calls her van the “Mouse House”. It looks like any ordinary white van but once you slide that door open, a wooden door greets you to reveal a fully functioning house.
It’s built by Roaming Wild Campers.
There’s a cabinet with a pull-out shelf which works well for her as she likes to work standing up.
The windows can be opened so Clare can enjoy the breeze from whichever direction it’s coming from.
She shares that although she’s had a house, her income as an artist isn’t much.
Owning something small and mobile minus the mortgage works better for Clare.
So, Clare sold the house, paid the mortgage, and bought the van.
The artist in her took over the customization of her van.
She wanted it to be beautiful. It had to be something she liked whenever she walked into it.
And with such limited space, every single detail counts.
Clare’s van is well insulated, able to keep her warm and cozy on the road.
Would you look at that kitchen? Clare loves to cook and that shelf full of spices is evidence of her hobby.
The pantry is located under the left counter where the spices are located, Eggs, olive oil, sauces, you name it and it’s all there!
There’s a 3 burner stove with an oven. All Clare has to do is flip a switch behind one drawer and she has gas for her stove.
All her pots and pans, mugs and plates are stored neatly into drawers and cabinets as well.
Clare says she spent a whole year just researching van builds.
Her Fiat is a used vehicle but with the mind of an artist, became one of a kind and truly an amazing build in terms of automotive customization.
Clare did spend a lot of cash for the build!
That bench that holds her sink is cedar. There’s a 70 liter water tank for personal use.
The tiny cupboards hold cutlery and dishwashing soap among other things.
Clare planned the build by writing down everything she did the moment she’d wake up in the morning.
It’s a very thorough and well-thought-out process, all while having to work with a limited amount of space.
That cedar bench is where she prepares her dishes but lift it up and it reveals her bathroom!
All Clare has to do is pull out the shower head and hang it up as needed.
That’s a composting toilet so she doesn’t need to use any chemicals. And of course there’s a drain. Incredible stuff.
Clare has a mini library hanging above her sitting area which also holds hooks for hanging up some of her clothes.
Her seat is also the fridge and under her bed is a pull-out table for mealtime.
She’s also very aware of how much water she has onboard, and if the solar panels have been exposed to enough sunlight or not.
The bed looks super cozy under that skylight and on the shelves are her clothes for easy access.
The lithium battery is right under just next to the 52 liter fridge.
And being a true artist, Clare can stand on the bed with half her body sticking out of the skylight so she can do some night photography.
A woman her age traveling alone does raise questions concerning safety.
Clare says it’s important to be aware, and having a way to get into the driver’s seat from the inside is very important.
Clare’s Fiat is only six meters long but with a little creativity, she’s turned it into a real home.
And with over 11 million views, it’s safe to say she’s inspired others to do the same. If you have the money and the willingness to live on the road, Clare says go for it!
Not only is Clare’s van beautiful and impressive – but Clare herself is a bright spirit that is a joy to listen to.
Press play on the video below to get a complete tour of her tiny home on wheels!
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