A converted 1970s school bus is now a tiny retro retreat for four friends in the Otways. Surrounded by gum trees and set privately at the end of a long country road in the Otways lies Gloria. A restored 1970s school bus transformed not to its former glory but into something much more special.
The towering A-Frame roof made from reclaimed corrugated iron first captures your attention as it sits proudly on top of a vintage mustard and cream bus. At first glance, such a sight in the middle of the countryside might seem haphazard if not for the manicured stone patio, vegetable patch, firepit, festoon lighting and timber-clad outhouse. Originally a 50-seater school bus, the interior was completely gutted to achieve a mezzanine-style cabin conversion. A nostalgic kitchen, dining and living room welcome you once you step inside, while two queen bedrooms exist where the ‘cool kids’ once sat. Vintage-inspired, found objects and furniture were sourced from local opportunity shops and most of the interiors were either recycled, upcycled or repurposed.
The BUS is one of twenty four unique homes featured in my new book, RETREAT: Inspired Homes and Ways of Living. Get your copy to see more of this home, and many others, in more detail.
