$500 Bedford House Truck Renovated Into Stunning Tiny Home

The old Bedford house trucks are like New Zealand's tiny home's of yesteryear. Fortunately, this old truck has been given a brand new life and has been stunningly renovated into a beautiful tiny home.
James found the house truck for sale for just $500 while he was living in his van and it was love at first sight. Working on a budget, the house truck has been lovingly restored and is now a wonderful place for James to call home.
This home is packed full of character, with original renovated features as well as wonderful new character pieces in the home. All of the materials have largely been found or purchased second hand.
James has a real passion for building and especially for reuse of old materials. You can follow more of his tiny house and building adventures on his instagram: / thiskiwireallybuilds
Find out more about this tiny house and others on our website: www.livingbiginatinyhouse.com/
Follow us on Instagram: / livingbiginatinyhouse
Follow us on Facebook: / livingbiginatinyhouse
Follow us on Twitter: / tinyhousenz
Please subscribe for more videos on tiny houses, architecture, DIY, design, and sustainable, off-grid living.
Title music in this video by Bryce Langston: / brycelangston
Presented and Produced by: Bryce Langston
Camera: Rasa Pescud & Bryce Langston
Editing: Rasa Pescud & Archmage Cappuccino
'Living Big in a Tiny House' © 2021 Zyia Pictures Ltd
#tinyhouse #housetruck #alternativeliving

[@livingbig]

This story really goes to the heart of the tiny house movement in New Zealand. This lovingly restored home on the road has been given a brand new life thank to James. We hope you enjoy the tour of this very special home. With love, Bryce & Rasa

[@SirFigBar]

Tiny houses are good

[@samasiaskipperable]

Who drew the whales on the wall?

[@katrinaneal1305]

Thank you!

[@AJsColourfulNotes]

A beautiful home.. Thank you for your efforts to find all these beautiful homes and amazing souls... Most of them are truly inspirational, teaching us how simple and beautiful our house and life should be.. I pray for this pandemic to be over soon, so that you can bring us more and more amazing homes from around the world.. You all stay safe and healthy.. Lots of l❤️ve and prayers from Kerala, India...

[@patriciatinkey2677]

@@AJsColourfulNotes Good Luck wishes to you, also! We in the US hear that things are very tough in India right now. Prayers back to you for your well being.

[@mcdibbern9919]

This guy so happy and at ease with his life!

[@jamesstephens8541]

Cheers mate, really can't complain living here 🤙

[@mpen5014]

@@jamesstephens8541 super amazing!! (Great voice too).

[@hammerradiology1470]

@@jamesstephens8541 really nice! I can understand where you're coming from. Simplicity sets us free. This is exactly my dream :)

[@warribe]

My thoughts were more towards marijuana but fulfilment would kinda do too

[@TheJhowNM]

What catches my attention the most in this is that he doesn't care about the trend of tiny houses that everyone else is hoping in...he's just chilling in the truck house he found and made it his own...amazing vibes from this...

[@luqmandevops]

This man is soooo chill and positive!

[@jamesstephens8541]

Chur

[@michaelbourke2111]

that is the description of almost all Kiwis :-), also, maybe the Cannabis leaf on his shirt provides some clue as to his "chill" :P Great looking home, Great looking bloke too!! ;)

[@Yogi-Buddha-zEns0_37.69]

He's got it goin' on! 🖖😎👍💯🏵🍀🌞🌈🦋👽🌌🛸🌝☮️

[@tangotangoh]

The shirt he's wearing is a British American Tobacco shirt.

[@CJ-ph6zk]

Not sure I have ever seen a man who is so comfortable with himself. Not wanting to make it something else but appreciating this treasure for what it is.

[@chrismar4839]

Very nice. A Big- up man.❤

[@chrismar4839]

I love it

[@rhondaoftriteia]

BeaUtifully captured Bryce, so humbled to call this guy a friend, and now my neighbour, and yes you are so right the space James created is so calming, cosy and homely. Such a safe space, a truly beautiful human.

[@patriciatinkey2677]

🦉😀

[@pornstarlivesmatter3319]

i want to take a nap on that couch!!!

[@PCFixer]

I'm so jealous; I wish I could buy an old box truck or house truck for $500 and fix it up into a Tiny...

[@Toodle.Pipp001]

You are blessed, one of my favourite tinies and he cooks! ☮️💟

[@jamesstephens8541]

Cheers Rhondy! Thanks for the love ❤️

[@sreeladasgupta8795]

Nothing sexier than two beautiful men talking passionately about tiny homes and historical authenticity 😊

[@taysiakahalekai]

this guy was one of the best people he interviewed i love him he’s so calm and his energy and vibe is so welcoming and soothing

[@kellybryson7754]

He keeps look directly at me when he talks and he is gorgeous. The house is cute, too.

[@margouxsiren2830]

Its weird because i feel nervous😂

[@ivybanks7936]

His vibe and gratitude for the simple things is very attractive!

[@bhupeshjena5057]

Yes , absolutely true.🙏

[@anapaulanl8150]

Yes, and he is cute though.

[@TheNails3]

"And you can work on projects while you're on the loo" ahahaha hilarious 😂

[@nedaaquarius1]

Probably the most efficient way of using time in the loo!

[@kathiemott3988]

@@nedaaquarius1 Very efficient! LOL!!!!

[@vinjulieann1]

Ya, just farting around with his tools.

[@jamesstephens8541]

Yea mate gotta be proactive

[@TheNails3]

James Stephens Love it!

[@miriamstrauss]

To those reading this, I hope you all have a very lovely evening and weekend!! Stay positive and keep your head up! You’re doing great 👍🏻

[@mithinie]

♥️

[@I3urton]

Right back at ya, Miriam! Hope you have a good weekend!

[@semmmi]

❤️❣️💫

[@miriamstrauss]

@@Mystaries 😇😇😇

[@miriamstrauss]

@@I3urton 😇❤️

[@pandajojowilson7833]

his face shows how much he loves this home, he is so comfortable and so proud of it... Well done

[@AndthenonedayIbecameanEXO-L]

This is such a charming home. It is smaller than many tiny homes, but it feels like it has a space for everything you might need.

[@tttiffa]

A fellow EXO-L! 👋

[@AndthenonedayIbecameanEXO-L]

@@tttiffa oh hello 😂😊

[@bobjob3632]

Did you see any wash machine ?? It only works because of his hobbo lifestyle. There s reason the shower is outside...

[@SheilaR.08]

@@bobjob3632 It's lovely. The shower is perfect.

[@mchjsosde]

@@bobjob3632 laundromats are still around believe it or not....

[@goulash75]

James seems like the kind of guy that would be cool to have a beer with. Brilliant home he's built for himself there.

[@sanamgrewal874]

I need to find a find myself a man like this guy. Smart , simple and good looking, who’s also in love with nature and artistic things, bonus 💌☺️

[@ereshadulislam9877]

I think we don't appreciate them much in real life

[@jean405]

👍🧡

[@franpie2264]

Me too sister xx

[@debbiemendes4417]

and don't forget, he cooks!

[@cath1895]

Simple?

[@muvaofpearl]

This is the first one I've seen that feels like someone really took something cheap and made it cozy and perfect for themselves. It's not all designed by some expensive archetect but made by hand by this passionate "gypsy" craftsman. Thanks for profiling him. :)

[@Agent-fg9ol]

Some say "home is where the heart is" and this house is overflowing with heart and character... I'm blown away, well done!

[@wakingtheworld]

You took the words out of my mouth...

[@BiggestKornFan1993]

I've never heard of a housetruck, This tiny home was well thought out during renovation and couldn't be any simpler to have your living quarters in

[@HareDeLune]

One of my favourite tiny homes of the entire series, and that's saying something! This guy is a kindred Spirit.

[@silversadie9342]

This guy is gorgeous inside and out. Wow!

[@maksumyee]

I love how he keeps looking at the camera person, including them in the conversation. He and his home give off such an appreciative, down to earth vibe, I feel myself relaxing listening to him speak. His approach reminds me of local life in Bali, where no matter how little $$ people have, they take time to appreciate nature, fresh flowers, and express gratitude for life several times a day.

[@HawthornCottageCraft]

The sleek, polished looking tiny homes are definitely beautiful but there is something about this house that just pulls you in. I think it speaks to the soul. It’s so gratifying seeing someone living their dream and being so content with their lives. I LOVED this one!

[@davidcattin7006]

The love he has for his home just shines through - everything he says and the sparkle in his eye. He's so proud of his place, and rightfully so! I don't think I've seen any other owner who seems so perfectly in sync with their space.

[@andreacole9944]

James has done a phenomenal job building and decorating his home. The function is so apparent and he appears so at peace with himself and his surroundings. Thank you Bryce and Rasa for your continued passion in this lifestyle. 🥰

[@lynna7735]

"I don't like perfect." How cool is that! Great to see what can be done with an old truck like that.

[@alexandrastevens8892]

There are so many tiny homes on wheels now adays but they all seem to be built from the same design, this one is so well loved and has a truly unique design. It's heartwarming to see a lovely young man who was able to see past the years of neglect and create a true work of art out of a vintage vehicle. So impressed 👏

[@TazinMashruba]

This guy is literally a book boyfriend come alive for me. Swooning over his charm, how at ease he is with everything, and how humble and full of gratitude he is. Can't help but be in awe

[@nicolashernandezvidal6040]

This is isn’t really my kinda tiny house style, but it fits him and his lifestyle very well so I definitely appreciate it! He did a great job with it, and he seems like a pretty cool guy!

[@amywalker7515]

I like it. It has such an open feel to it. Not cramped like so many others out there.

[@ritaburleson1224]

Honestly it's not my cup of tea ; but I like his attitude. making a positive lifestyle and is satisfied. I've faced situations myself and made the best I could out of it. He enjoys life more than many of people do, that's for sure. 🌤️😊📷

[@nicolashernandezvidal6040]

@@ritaburleson1224 exactly!

[@elib7311]

I think this is one of my favorites. I find myself continuously smiling throughout the entire video. It’s so cozy, yet spacious. Love his style, decor and the rustic/cabin type feel the home has. Super well done!

[@sophiemarcaurele]

Wow! Everything you need and such a cozy, warm interior! I especially like how he actually looks at the camera and engages with us. For once, Bryce meets his match as far as looks and charisma goes 😍👌🚐🤗

[@availanila]

He's looking at Rasa. We're interacting through her 🤯😊

[@susanwylie9890]

I’m amazed Bryce by how many good stories you are finding in little old Aotearoa!! He found a truck at a garage sale ... that is so Kiwi!!

[@arin7981]

He radiates positivity when he talks❤️..and soo freaking Handsome😍😍😍

[@ereeeeeeeees]

Gotta say he's so relaxing to watch ☺

[@kiki-fernandes]

I loved this tinny house, a lot of creativity, simplicity and good taste. The owner of the house is very beautiful! won a fan from Brazil, kisses

[@olga138]

I love that this little house is a throwback to the roots of tiny houses. He's a delightful young man and he has made a wonderful space to live in until he's ready for his next adventure.

[@honeyskyvlog]

This guy honestly looks like the New Zealander version of Jamie Fraser 🔥 Awesome spirit and creativity, thank you for sharing this unique and inspiring home 😍🌿

[@RaySingh87]

He makes me think more of a...younger Murtagh?

[@lindasteinbrenner8065]

Yes! Exactly right! ❤️

[@weatherwitchandfelinefamiliars]

Absolutely stunning and utterly perfect for him. I wonder what it is about tiny homes that so many people who live in them seem to be people you'd love to have as friends, their values, their approach to life, their sheer beauty of spirit, all such wonderful traits 💖💖💖

[@Aelrandir]

Sometimes it's about what you build yourself, and the journey that it brings along the way. I love how the channel shows a variety of lifestyles, builds, and ways of living tiny.

[@maryboxall1696]

What a lovely guy....left handed too - like me. He has made that truck look so cosy! Thank you Bryce & Rasa for yet another lovely video...Keep safe & lots of love to you both xxx

[@miriamstrauss]

Ya it’s pretty awesome 👏🏻

[@petemichael4512]

And he cooks too.

[@anahidartinianjamgotchian3181]

I noticed too. Like me as well.

[@milkweeddreams8828]

What a fun young man, so calm and focused, easy going lifestyle, nothing overboard...everything he loves about the house says it all, the shower, the queen bed, the loo/garage, the worms...he must be a fascinating person to visit with over coffee...lucky girls...!

[@janethansen9612]

Finally back to an affordable and creative tiny house that feels like a home and has personality!

[@Lagaloggie]

Bryce, your summation is spot-on. James' house is full of his character - quirky, friendly, contented, eclectic. No pretensions at all, it looks totally lived in. It doesn't fit the usual template of picture-pretty tiny homes but it is indeed a home that suits its owner. goes to show that at the other extreme, tiny homes can be highly personal and affordable.

[@carolthomas770]

This guy brings me back to the 1970s when I was growing up. Respecting the earth, recycling, self reliant. Super inspiring.

[@marciabruderlin5546]

This would have to be one of my favourite tiny homes so far ❤️. Didn’t cost a lot and you can see it was a labour of love to make it a true home. Also surprising how much space there is and it is definitely functional. That shower is amazing.

[@arpnarouth2900]

This tiny home is really functional and this guy seems very proud about his home like a parent who's child get first place in class , and he seems friendly too.

[@dstew8540]

I've watched thousands of TH videos', this is one of my favorites for multiple reasons. James did an awesome job with a low budget. It's a true expression of his loves and life. Not sure what I liked most, the fireplace area, the shower, or the bedroom area. The kitchen is also very nice and functional and so is his tool room. The old truck is great nostalgia. All good stuff! Nice job James, and to Bryce and Rasa for finding this gem.

[@sundayspecial2722]

This home is so personal, beautiful, and totally cozy. I want to live feeling as happy as him for the rest of my life. Not thinking about a mortgage all the time. What a bliss.

[@Thenakedforager]

I am so jealous of how happy and content he is, in fact he’s given me inspiration to follow my dreams once the uk is over the COVID situation! Thank you for sharing that with us.x

[@alterlove359]

These videos make me so happy! The people who live in tiny homes are always so interesting too.

[@doccastro]

One word that describes this man and his tiny home, unpretentious. Love it

[@davidsanchez1369]

This dude is happy and content to have that feeling and be satisfied with your surroundings is priceless it's so good to feel like that not even living in a mansion with all it's maintenance and concerns can match the peace he and oneself can have.

[@yvesochrysanthos6955]

I really really love what you guys do. It is like magic the way you take us with you inside a house and let us see everything is outstanding. Great job!

[@miriamstrauss]

Ya it pretty friken cool 😎

[@Trish....]

He & his van are gorgeous! Great combo! I think he did a great job, & would live to binge watch him building his new tiny home someday!

[@laurenmallon4963]

Very creative, reminds me of the days in the late 60's and early 70's my old hippie days...nice!

[@miriamstrauss]

Sounds like some fun times!

[@devangacharya8361]

Amazing how much love and character this person has put in his home. Bryce more videos please! I don't watch other tiny house channels any longer

[@kiwigirljacks]

I’m usually drawn to a more minimalist aesthetic... but I could definitely live in there 😍😍 Stunning!

[@loisfolk5492]

He knows what is important and is happy 😃

[@jennyc1846]

Lots of things to love about this home..the toolshed in the loo, the outdoor fireplace, I like those pebbles in the hearth and the enthusiasm of this young guy. Thanks Bryce

[@mairisimart]

The true essence of the tiny home is in every nook and cranny of this delightful truck. What a cozy home : )

[@seandesmond5560]

A simple and beautiful home for James, who seems like a really good bloke!

[@jeroberts7228]

Oh, my... I'm so in love with James's wonderful home - it's so full of character! I also loved when he said, toward the end, that he takes so much pleasure in bringing others in who look around in wonder and appreciation at everything in his home. I so love his beautiful home and EVERYthing in it. I also love the laid-back style of life he projects. I would definitely feel right at home there. Sigh...

[@PCFixer]

All through this video, with every shot of parts of the house I was like, "Oh my god I love this; Oh my god I love that; Oh my god I love this; Oh my god I love that!"

[@jeroberts7228]

@@PCFixer Hey, I can relate!

[@timmyg2548]

Sometimes the true character of a person comes through on video. This is one of those rare occasions. James should give lessons on how we should live our lives. Truly a cozy and comfortable space! Thank you, Bryce and Rasa, for bringing this story to us with all its magic.

[@arianafox4944]

Great example of a visual organizer in the kitchen and tool shed. I want to build an outdoor shower like that!

[@nicolevickridge]

A beautiful video, home and person. I love the way these stories are put together. A home is always be so much more than a house.

[@tanyaessig312]

Everything about the space you build for yourself if sooo beautiful James! Love all the practical, simplicity to enjoy the best hings in life! I love your style and special touches all around! You rock!! 💖🔥🌱🌀☮️

[@gmontini492]

There's something about tiny houses owners that make them all look beautiful, maybe it's their satisfaction about where they live, and how they do it

[@suzannebusch7787]

Love this house truck. This guy is such a beautiful person. He has such much talent and great taste. You can just see he is living a very peaceful happy life.

[@elena_a-2023]

I loved this episode Bryce. What a great guy! James loves his home and he feels so comfortable with everything he has created for himself.

[@alicegunn3970]

He has done an excellent job on the restoration. The inside is totally my style. Wish more people would restore these old living trucks. Great video ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 STARS

[@bridgetedwardsmentalhealth409]

Delightful, genuine bloke who has created a fabulously comfortable, and cozy home with heartfelt meaning and purpose. Easy on the eyes too ... lol ... 😉

[@patriciatinkey2677]

This is one of my favorite tiny homes...it feels like I, (or anyone!), could actually live in it long term. Love his grey water solutions & the relaxed homey lounge/dinette! Perfect.😍

[@jbach1738]

This one is definitely one of my favorites. It's so beautiful and comfortable.

[@auntvesuvi3872]

Thanks, Bryce! Thanks, Rasa! Thanks, James! 🏡

[@cynthiaahern9081]

Everything in this video is Gorgeous. The truck home, the countryside, the man, both men actually, the woman, the food, the decor. I can't stand it! It is just too much! ❤ great video.

[@pinky2245]

This is great! What a nice young man! He and his home seem to really 'fit' together ... perfectly suited to one another! Thank you Bryce!

[@raworange8187]

Magical. This guy embodies the true spirit of tiny house living. Awesome 🤘🤘🤘🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@raworange8187]

This is up there with the guy Purple that you showcased a few years ago. Simplicity = HAPPINESS 🤘🤘🤘🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@lizh1988]

So comfortable, efficient, different, and all, a real one. And didn't cost a ton, either.

[@elib7311]

Bryce cut his hair! I dunno WHAT they put in the water down under but it sure helps create some of the most beautiful people, inside AND out. So glad the two of you have survived the Covid nightmare. Hope your families are doing well also.

[@suemiller8123]

That haircut broke my heart. I love his longer, curlier hair--it's gorgeous! I am impatiently waiting for it to grow back out!

[@denisebd1000]

Awesome 😮I am amazed at how much work he’s done and made his home functional and cozy. He’s financially stable and happy 😃!

[@annajohns738]

Happiness is a label maker. Love the tiny house - really cosy and homely.

[@bluenoser1567]

Really nice! The arched ceilings are real bonus. The price, even with the renovations is crazy. Here in Canada the average price for a home is over $750,000.00 dollars and depending on the region that might be a one bedroom condo or a five bedroom house. This show's you can live comfortably without living too large.

[@Summer-xe6in]

That is such a cozy home. If I run into this person on my trip to NZ I would be honoured to even glance let alone step foot into such an intrinsically intimate space. I am enchanted. Thank you for sharing and inviting us into your tiny home, virtually, James.

[@kimsmith819]

It looks like he has everything he needs in there. Perfect home for a guy and he looks very happy

[@nevbrits8230]

This captures what tiny house living is about. Freedom, creativity and affordability. I love how it's *not* one of those copy-paste tiny houses! Nicely done, James!

[@anapaulanl8150]

I really want to marry that guy. Her vibe, the way he talks, his lifestyle, his creativity... Just awesome.

[@katrinaneal1305]

Very cool guy. He makes you at ease just watching the video Thanks for the video

[@PlaceForAnEcho]

Attractive man who becomes more attractive because of his personality. The care and frugal purchases he put into his home is beautiful.

[@tmckmusic8584]

I love this guy's attitude and what he cherishes... soul tribe! 🙏💗

[@randrewp]

I love the way he looks right at the camera

[@desireejohnson4947]

One of my favorites so far! Down to earth! Besides the eye candy that comes with it! 😉😘❤

[@oblomovtheunknown]

What I like about your wonderful vlog is not only do you see wonderful tiny homes, learn about off the grid lifestyles and meet super chill guys like James and others, there is a message for all of us who live on a planet that is succumbing to global warming and wastefulness. Here we see in every video, green tips and ideas for us all to use irrespective of our own living spaces. Thank you guys for being inspirational. Every time I hear the budget for these tiny houses, I am reminded of E. F. Schumacher's credo "Small is Beautiful."

[@saraparker4082]

I’m always impressed by someone who splits wood so easily.

[@TheNails3]

I absolutely love this place and the aesthetic. So inspiring. What delicious food he was making! Such a cool person! Hats off to you James, this is a brilliant place you've made!

[@jackiegammon2065]

I loved the story of this truck and creativity of building it into a home! Very well done and hope to see it again at some point.

[@Geenine44]

You couldn’t get more Kiwi than the good ole housetruck. My sister has had two so far. The beauty of these is the tare weight is higher.

[@bryanjason1980]

How are you doing 😊👋

[@myfavs253]

Right out of the old book "Rolling Homes" by Jane Lidz. I love it. These old original homes were built by hippies in the 60s. The pictures from then show homemade campers and homes that were so unique and beautiful. Glad to see one survived and was revived.

[@veronicalombarte5802]

Hi Bryce. You should revisit James as he's done more work on his land since you saw him 2 years ago. Minor changes to the Bedford but doing well. Great job as always.

[@anne-marie9842]

What a nice guy, so happy with the life he created for himself.

[@tashahines1000]

This guys home and attitude are so very chillax, with a purpose, for real😃

[@wakingtheworld]

Well they say a home reflects your personality and in a space like this you get to be creative. This is very much James' style, ethos... Hats off to ya mate. Nice job.