Couple makes garage home + campervan a consistent life combo

[@kennethgarcia25]

This was the closest I’ve seen that reflects a person’s life philosophy and the use of technology to support that! Brilliant! Not just a van or garage conversion video, but how human’s build the lives they want that fit their beliefs.

[@TheDangerz]

Were still working on it/building it... but thats the goal!!

[@kennethgarcia25]

@@leahtv7778 missing the forest for the trees, huh?!!

[@TerryPullen]

"I'm a designer" Understatement of the year. This dude is a great designer.

[@surfmarko]

i keep coming back to watch this. These guys are creative, practical, and stylish!

[@sandrajohnson9926]

Its June - 2023 - how did I miss this one?! One of the best. Thank you.

[@MindMadeThis]

I normally skim through videos longer than 20 minutes but this had my attention from start to finish!

[@v6nce]

I planned to skim through this too but it captivated me also.

[@micheleoftheoaks5506]

This is by far the best van conversion I've seen. If they were ever going to start a business van conversions would be a great one for them. How smart to use things that are made for boats. A lot of great ideas for anyone thinking of building tiny or converting their own van.

[@TheDangerz]

Thanks!! We haven actually finally broken down after many, many requests and will be building out a few custom adventurevans for others... www.ZENVANZ.com

[@LilyGazou]

I'm touched that they plan their travel around their aging dog. I did the same and I have no regrets.

[@andreaandrea6716]

YES! I am also touched by this.

[@jaybarrett9682]

You rule, friend. I'm right there with you.

[@sventer198]

It’s a worry for me too. My girl has severe arthritis but I only have a small window of opportunity for travel. I’m managing her pain as best as medically possible, but getting into and out of the van is getting difficult for her, especially getting on the bed which is her favourite spot. She is going to have to get used to being on the floor I think.

[@lifewithviv1901]

exactly!!!

[@girlygirl1890]

@@sventer198 So sorry to hear of your little gorl's arthritis. Please make sure to get her a nice, comfortable dog bed instead of the floor. You can find some large, plush ones at many stores for a good price. (My dogs have a dog bed in every room in our house so they can be comfortable whichever room they go in.) Best wishes to you and your doggie.

[@MrMustachehead]

This guy is so intelligent! The way he does things is so well thought out and precise!

[@leonardogarrido]

I had the wrong idea that people that live this simple and free were pot heads or hippies, but this couple has proven me wrong, well-spoken, smart and really in sync. I love their two projects and show you what you really need in life. The garage and the Van have smart designs full of surprises and well-thought ideas. Super cool that they consider the dogs needs.

[@nGAhGENVH0Ul]

These 3 are living a life richer than most people without having to define life in terms of money and expensive toys. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheDangerz]

Funny that we were seeking happiness for so long, and it was the simple choice of collecting experiences rather than things. =)

[@TheAngryMaskSalesman64]

That man is really well spoken. Learned a lot from this video, thanks!

[@M1978-p8j]

TheAngryMaskSalesman Man?

[@StudioJohm]

TheAngryMaskSalesman It's just a shame that he interrupts the woman 20 000 times in this video.

[@deandre1988]

didnt notice a single interuption

[@dirkryan5962]

@@deandre1988 ya, i'm halfway through and haven't noticed one yet.

[@bryanlylethomsen]

Yeah except how many times he incorrectly uses the word "literally". Man it's aggravating. Also why can't he pronounce an L? Is it an accent?

[@davescott8859]

When your wife will push start the family van, she’s a keeper for sure.

[@TheDangerz]

Couldn't agree more! ;)

[@kevio6868]

No doubt!

[@francesgillotti1378]

Dave Scott I did that after I had my son hurt my back was 25 . Was the stupidest thing I ever did.

[@superkgal3065]

nice one

[@NotJessH]

Hands down the best van build and garage-home I’ve ever seen. The garage is gorgeous and so is the van. I’m envious

[@susancoelho658]

A Sprinter Van is a Mercedes Benz and they come in. 3 Different sizes..... I worked at M B before n saw a large size converted with. Full corner leather Couch etc..... have to have money to get...... what you need especially if a single Mom or. A senior.

[@kenmunoz8517]

Dear God, I had to go back and watch this twice to take it all in. A true designer!

[@ballwizz23]

Typically when KZbin recommends videos that I've already watched I get slightly annoyed. But I've watched this whole video 3 times now and I still love it. Definitely inspiration for my future living spaces.

[@shamarsha]

This was thee best small space design I have seen thus far!! You two are a true inspiration!!

[@Willy_LGM]

I love how they up-cycle scrap materials and transform them into something functional & beautiful. Great work!

[@FrisellFan01]

I have to admit they live the ultimate lifestyle.......without question.......that van and the garage they built...... knock me out! Very cool video.....

[@northofyou33]

And Airbnb pays for it.

[@bettiesnyder8393]

This is the very best video I’ve ever seen on the nomadic lifestyle. While there is no way I could ever create anything close to what this couple has created, it has inspired me to come up with my own version of getting out there & living this life. It may not be as beautiful as theirs, but at least I’ll be doing it! Thank you for the awesome ideas!

[@TheDangerz]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. We didnt make any of these things because others would find them beautiful, we made them to match our point of comfort so that we could live this way as long as we wanted/needed. Go get it!!!

[@grrwuff4099]

I'm officially an addict of watching tiny homes on KZbin :-/

[@katj3443]

Grr wuff me too I wish it was more of a thing in the uk, lol I play sims a lot and love designing my dream tiny home on it and enjoy seeing how it functions. I’m constantly amazed at how multifunctional they make their spaces.

[@sandymay2212]

Me too 🤩 This one is in my top 5

[@delrosario7453]

Me too I don't have the guts to live an unconventional nomadic life

[@brianhubbard2940]

Absolutely

[@lancedaniels]

So nice to hear such an articulate guy. Thanks for posting.

[@TheDangerz]

I always hate hearing/seeing myself on film... but articulate is certainly not the word that popped into mind for me. Thanks though

[@JoshShelby]

While there were a few 'y'know' or 'kinda' fillers, I didn't catch an ah, um or uh type pause/filler that flood many interviews and demonstrations like this. To be able to speak on a topic without the additional fluff certainly meets the criteria of being 'articulate'. Solid build and an interesting source of inspiration for reflection. Enjoy that slick home.

[@econdesigner]

Josh Shelby Or be never works and spends all of his time reflecting on his "genius" design. He's given this interview in his head many times. Smug.

[@maxxsteele9396]

Aaron Rossiter just like your reused comment. I'm surprised that you didn't use "literally" anywhere in your commentary. Although, I'm certain your response will contain, "actually." You're such a crab.

[@letsdoit_k]

Yes, very well spoken! Do many more videos about anything.

[@JohnnyFD]

I can’t decide which is more amazing, the garage house or the van! I love them both!

[@monsuur]

Johnny FD The van looks great, but it’s bad for the environment and not very safe compared to modern cars.

[@hadyant0]

both.

[@MegaWildswan]

Love the Garage and Van sharp design!

[@mariaemilianegron]

Congratulations you're leaving the life God bless you

[@David-ry5il]

This is nice , I'm literally building out my garage now and this has some cool ideas ...

[@janicequalls6206]

This couple has become my superheroes! Love the ideas, and how they make them happen! :)

[@jessicaoreilly9260]

The best of two worlds. The garage and the van are both awesome. A life of travelling is great. This is my favorite episode of your show.

[@kellonwheelz_66]

Wow! Both the house and the van are beautiful! The house is a lot like many Southeast Asian AirBnB's and small, modern homes. I loved how small yet functional the spaces were. The bathroom is exactly like many I'd seen in Thailand. Very simplistic. I love it!

[@sailmonkeyflying8641]

Another (actually two) amazing builds. They should write a DIY book.

[@michaeldianem9259]

I'm amazed and astounded at the beauty, multi purpose, and accessibility of both the camper and garage home. They are a talented and unique couple. Thanks for sharing.

[@ImAlive11550]

Love the longer format video, allows me to vicariously live thru other people much easier than if it were a 10 minute video.

[@mdrummond194]

Wow! The van is the best I’ve seen yet! Simply amazing.

[@TheDangerz]

www.ZENVANZ.com

[@MarkettaWalker]

Both the garage and van are put together beautifully. I really like the industrial hardware, used of reused wood is always a plus and providing additional savings

[@kevinbelt6052]

The garage is beautiful, but the Van is absolutely perfect! Both of you are very talented. Great work!

[@LiznLin]

I stumbled upon this video just now and I have to say I love the mentality of this couple. So level headed and just down right cool. Kudos for living an "unconventional" lifestyle. Super inspiring!

[@markusflanks4024]

LiznLin well said

[@TheDangerz]

We think you’re pretty cool too! 😏

[@keosh777]

One of the more intelligent, creative designs I've seen for both the home base space and amazing diy van space. Inspirational. Just get out there and do. Love it. Well done.

[@dluscombephantom86]

Wow! As conaseur of stealth camper videos, I am so very impressed with both your garage & your van projects. If there was an annual camper van award, you folks would win, hands down.

[@ralphlyda4545]

*Connoisseur

[@terahjones6765]

You guys are so freaking awesome. Like seriously. From learning how to weld to being considerate of your dogs age.

[@williamhorn4600]

One of the most interesting interview you have come across yet, thank you for this one

[@preacher2053]

I'm almost convinced that living in a smaller space is just the ticket, which is one reason why I'll only live in a two bedroom condo, and eventually do lots of traveling in a van.

[@NameUnimportant]

I freaking LOVE this!!! The way they used the scrap wood and made it look so upscale and beautiful is amazingly creative and a great way to save cost. Did I mention how beautiful it is?!!

[@TheDangerz]

Thanks!

[@waveman8923]

This was one of the coolest vans built that I've seen and liked. Especially the 4x4 part. I forgot to add that I am glad I traveled most of the world before 24 so now I can travel to just certain parts I loved when I retire soon. Thanks for a great inspiration!

[@lindakriegel5552]

Your so smart and articulate! I’m surprised an HGTV or DIY channel haven’t nabbed you yet!! Amazing job!

[@TheDangerz]

Linda Kriegel Ha! They’ve tried. We have no interest! 🤣

[@debbieboring3422]

One of the things you show on you videos is that life is ever changing. How many people like this couple have you come across that have changed what the worlds view use to be of get a job and stay there for life. But you find people young and old men or women who have stepped out of comfort zones and found a new life. And some really cool housing options.

[@shirleyvinson3894]

Still one of my favorite builds. I never get tired of seeing this❤️❤️

[@mperdue12]

I am so you..!! Thank God for KZbin. Just bought my sprinter three weeks ago. My credit union didn't have a problem loaning on a used vehicle so I went 2006. The family wants me to see someone, "Just talk about things", because I told the builder to start with the Garage and give me a price if I didn't build the entire house. This didn't go well but it feels so right. Wait until they find out I am quitting my job in 3 months. I was cruising KZbin for Ideas and found you. Can't think of anything I would do different. Well done and good for you.... :_)

[@TheDangerz]

Enjoy the journey!!

[@tifu678]

This is the high end hobo life. Nicely done on the garage home and sprinter setup!

[@fucku3460]

Living in a van DOWN BY THE RIVER!!

[@Chr.U.Cas1622]

So Kirsten Dirksen did another great video! The lovely couple did fantastic and ingenious work! Especially the big barrier- free shower with sunroof in the garage and the rounded bamboo interior in the van! Congrats! It's also correct what he mentioned: Too much thinking about/over stops from doing it (unfortunately this behavior inhibits me currently from downsizing/getting my own cheap property). Only 2 things should be thought over again: 1) The concrete countertop has sharp edges although they avoided this especially in the van for several good reasons! 2) In my opinion stairs are definitely no good solution! If you are ill or cannot walk sometimes (and/or getting older), all stairs will be nearly insurmountable barriers. Especially the high ones going up to the beds (van and garage). The other stuff is done wonderful. All the best luck and health to you all (of course including Kirsten Dirksen and the viewers)!

[@brianbirc]

The ability to do this kind of work is very valuable. I have taken out and built all the cabinets in my 3 bedroom and done all the trim around windows, doors and baseboards etc.. After watching a few tv shows people do home improvements and the price it costs I was amazed. My work was better materials and pennies on the dollar and not sold by the foot so many have. All custom. Building my old full size Bronco into a Baja race truck style with all the comforts in a newer truck inside and seeing similar ones sold for 50-150 thousand makes me feel proud and stoked to have something I could not afford to buy done. People like this make living nice and should be thought of with respect. Working class heroes. My career was giving the world a lift as a elevator/escalator repairman, constructor/foreman. So I have quality shaft (LOL).

[@coolcatcarolena4951]

The best of both worlds in two beautiful tiny houses!

[@kathleenroot3978]

CoolCat Carolena i

[@TheDangerz]

So glad you like them! We love the process of designing them...whether for ourselves or for our clients! ;)

[@bildergucken4430]

Two expensive tiny houses... Kinda missleading " living out a tiny garage and a camper"...

[@estherstrategicadvisor749]

bryan danger A. DREAM. COME TRUE. I teared up at the beauty of the garage. Thanks for insight on ADU's. A whole family could live there.

[@4TIMESAYEAR]

The one is tiny. The garage was a two car. That's not small. It's got high ceilings and a loft - that's actually probably more space than my own relatively small home. They say 489 sq. ft. but the standard 2 car garage is 24x24=576. A loft is like a 2nd floor.

[@scientifico]

I cannot front, I am absolutely envious of the life they've created for themselves! Living in a garage and a van never looked so perfect!

[@Oldsoulwoodworking]

Dispite their modesty and humbleness they truly have discovered and figured out what life is truly about.

[@burnellbrowne4303]

This man and wife need too share this house with the world its great and neat thanks Bryan-Jen KUDOS .

[@dianadee23]

That van. I love the awning and the rounded bamboo surfaces. Perfect. Well done.

[@inlovewithkarate29]

I love the fact they built the campervan so they can travel with their four legged family member. Both garage home and campervan is .... amazing!!

[@artfulflower]

Love the garage home's wet room/shower. Love the van's interior layout and functionality. This is great and I wouldn't mind living in it for a while! Good work, you two!

[@fls9180]

You have inspired my build at my elderly father's home so we can help each other ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️thank you soo much going on line now!!

[@caroleallman8915]

Fascinating, brilliant, wonderful, talented .... hats off to Bryan and Jen!

[@arthurduff7228]

Heard you guys on Tangentially Speaking, moved into my camper van for a Wisconsin winter for grins, then left the country altogether and loving it!! Thanks as I think you guys gave me some inspiration to get out of dodge!

[@TheDangerz]

Arthur Duff Glad to hear we helped in some small way. More glad to hear you’re out chasing happiness!

[@tammynorris3093]

You two made me smile, thank you for sharing a moment in your life!

[@cyrushormusjee5112]

Greetings from India. Everything is well designed. You both are the ultimate outdoors couple. Continue your journey for the love of belonging with nature. Thanks for the video. Regards...

[@boogiedownbronx73]

they are just living life without worrying about getting stuck in daily routines....more people should live like this....less stress and more freedom

[@Ryanlexz]

Agree

[@tovsteh]

Yea, until they all start requiring what society (people with jobs) produces: Electricity, internet, waste management, healthcare, fuel, infrastructure services, food supplies, car repairs etc etc. I'm all fine with people living their lives how they want if they can afford it, but society won't function if nobody contributes to it. Consuming less is definitely the way.

[@cn9630]

FunkyDoolittle IT ALL TAKES A GREAT DEAL OF MONEY THO SO SAD FOR THE REST OF US “UNFORTUNATES”...

[@cn9630]

toasteh PERFECTLY STATED! As Grandma always said: “The world needs ditch-diggers too!”

[@kentan3145]

Not only the house and the van, the people are great as I believed. Felt wonderful after watching this video. Good luck guys.

[@TheDangerz]

Thank you!

[@andrewkellers9275]

☺☺☺☺ I'm in the uk..and I've seen plenty of D.i.y builds but this has got to be one of the best and most thought out jobs out there. from planning /construction /materials and ingenuity.(well done you)

[@TheDangerz]

Thanks!

[@sherrihodges849]

I love their priorities...dog, travel, minimal living. They've earned their happiness

[@jake-mv5oi]

Love the metalwork and those bearing rollers. Must be satisfying knowing that you designed and built it yourself, just the way you want it.

[@alteregos3304]

You guys are the real face of the RV community and living simply. Not trying to make a living on KZbin but living the minimalist life comfortably. Really wish all the people who run in packs looking for everything for free and make being a celebrity and living off viewers on KZbin ruin it. I’d love to live the particular lifestyle you have with the small home, and a way to go on the road and see the country and live “simple” great job and video and I enjoyed seeing your living accommodations.

[@dafyddil]

By far the best van design I've ever seen... this guy needs to be teaching classes on design

[@hugoko2096]

thank you kirsten for all these tubes of people with such a free spirit and great enthusiasm for life , it makes me realize that me and most people are chained to lot of stuff that we don’tactually need and the searching for a simpler life have to begin with ur environment first

[@VitorMadeira]

Ok, this became as one of my favourite videos ever here on KZbin. Thank you so very much for this marvellous interview. Outstanding! Greetings from Portugal.

[@snowstrobe]

Loved all the work and design... deeply disturbed when he ran his hand around the inside of the toilet bowl...

[@tabblu6289]

They let their dog sleep in their bed. I doubt that he cares about germs.

[@michellebeaman5240]

I am so inspired by the two of you!! I wish you continued wellness and love!

[@Jasan57]

I´m stunned - very impressing. I love the roughness, beauty and functionality of the "garage-home" and the basic ideas it expresses.

[@geoffreys2176]

Hats off to those who have discovered the joy of tiny house living. Less ... is the new more.

[@RetiredTony]

BEST GARAGE CONVERSION! PERFECTLY EXECUTED...

[@Well_possibly]

Retired Tony, I love how clever they are, but...just two things: If there is an appliance fire or cooking fire, sleeping up near the ceiling means choking on smoke in your sleep. I don't want to be graphic, but the bed is so close to the ceiling. That limits positions. Right?

[@timogronroos4642]

They have invented smoke alarms, didn't you know? I don't know if they are required in US, but in Northern Europe, they are required. In my country, You need one for every 700 ft2 of space. Last 20 years or so, they have been built-in in all new houses/appartments here.

[@SeriousBeats]

This guy is really smart, awesome design ideas and work

[@cathleenbaldwinmaggi2252]

I really love this build - actually both the home base (garage conversion) and the van. Obviously, this gentleman knows how to work with metal. What a huge advantage. Makes me think I need to do one of these while my dad is still with us. He is a master at metalwork, being a machinist engineer. Thank you for this one. I really appreciate it.

[@TheDangerz]

Taught myself too weld... its fun, and doesn't take as long as you might think! ;)

[@Lifeisaview]

This has been by far the most inspirational story you have ever put up Kirsten! At the moment we are living in a van full-time with a 4 year old and we are dreaming of a setup where we can rent out the main house full time and occasionally use the garage part of the house. Just wow, amazing story and build and setup and lifestyle etc, just perfect

[@Lilmiket1000]

My first thought is that it looks like an airstream trailer on the inside. very nice job with the metalwork and bamboo work!

[@tamaraweber3296]

Brilliant Design, Love the rolling table.

[@crazywisdom2]

OMG........ I am so inspired. I want this life......... They are living my dream ! Love it ......

[@TheDangerz]

Go get it!! ;)

[@joanburbank3667]

Really well done! Impressive. Beautifully done

[@kristancorsiglia6756]

Absolutely LOVE this home. This couple has such courage and has worked very hard to be able to live the way they want to love - comfortably and with the ability to travel and enjoy life.

[@TheDangerz]

We're trying!

[@dirkryan5962]

(12:16) "i think it's the result of 2 people living in a van..." down by the river! sorry, i couldn't resist. that said, seeing other people's creativity being put to good use to make their homes more functional helps to jump-start my own creativity. incredible living spaces!

[@tarmacsurfers]

Don't change anything about your channel cos it is dam perfect!

[@justinofboulder]

Awesome build.....great use of reclaimed materials and DIY skills! I also like that they were willing to spend the money on WEDI for the bathroom, most people are hesitant to spend the extra money, but it really is an amazing system! The irony to his comment regarding most people spending only 6-8 hours in a bedroom, is that most people only spend 10-12 hours a day in their home......

[@TheDangerz]

Interesting and valid point! We think it's odd that we only spend a few days in our home, but at least when we do we're there all 24hours to enjoy it! ;) Oddly, my wife pointed out after watching this that my numbers for average sleep are probably also well off ... I don't sleep much, so I guess Im a bit out of touch when i talk about a 6hour night of sleep. =)

[@9y2bgy]

I can't tell you how much respect I have for this couple who live life to the fullest on their terms. His comment that when we live in 5 bedroom house we won't know what it is we really want, is true. But it's one of the hardest to do to simply go out and live to find out what we want in life. So, RESPECT!

[@TheDangerz]

Thanks!

[@ACandieCaneKilling]

You did such a wonderful job of the van, garage, welding, steel, bathroom, & everything, I was so impressed; not with the work itself, although that is amazing, quality wise, OMG it's awesome, but with the simplicity & functionality & you were both so patient, testing it all out, making it work 1st, then building the final product. I'm so glad I stumbled across your video, so good, so nice & so pretty, even with the industrial feel, you & your wife are the perfect couple, I love how you did it all together, what a great tour. Thank you

[@CanVanLiving]

NO CORNERS - brilliant.

[@Dinotee07]

“We ran away and we didn’t want to have jobs” Me: i want that too *looks in to my wallet. Nope. Can’t do that right now. They are inspiring though.

[@caroljackson4093]

ernesto dors 🤣🤣🤣poor most of us. He’s not alone. I’ve been over working for “The Man.” “The Man” is the true bastard and SOB 🧐🤪😜.

[@dhr.neuteboom4536]

I'm just 34 but leaving the Netherlands for Greece in 30 days. I have tenants paying my dutch home and I will buy another one over here. With a pool!

[@kevio6868]

@@dhr.neuteboom4536 Nice job!

[@stopmotionj2455]

I really liked both the garage and the van. Such beautiful homes. :)

[@Simonpeckham]

Inspirational, thank you Bryan and Jen and to all involved in making this film - One life - Live it ....

[@davemetz7368]

I NEVER watch something twice. Its been 6 months since I last saw your video but just had to review it again, and it STILL holds my attention, what a garage can turn into. Each and every design is just FANTASTIC. I want one for myself !!!!!

[@РалицаБоянова]

The most amazing channel for me! Thank you. Very interresting.

[@kingdomthings9887]

Love the Sprinter van interior layout and the bamboo 🙂. He's a very talented and creative man. I used to have a 72' VW beetle. For a while, due to lack of $, I had to either park on a hill, or get someone to push me. I called it the Wonder Bug, because everyday, I wondered what would break next 😟.. I'm not a VW fan.

[@ThatGuyFromArizona]

Very cool video from 2 smart people... Thanks for sharing.

[@debliedel]

I guys are awesome! u guys r not only creative and follow through on what u both want in life, but u put your dog first!!

[@MutantDustBunny]

Stunning display of talent, beauty, skill and intelligence. Thanks for sharing your inspired lifestyle.

[@realpeopleoftheinternet]

He is a genius . They did a great job with there homes.

[@alexanderverdoodt]

great video, love this channel. Great content, interesting housing and interisting people.

[@fintanoclery2698]

Garage is a beaut, only thing I would change out is the exposed OSB cabinetry along the back wall (but that's just a matter of personal preference). Great job! *it looks nice when it's covered with the scrap though.

[@rosemerrytillman9380]

Paddy O'Lantern no no no by chance do to me to be

[@steelwheels327]

Simplicity, function, beauty all while being utilized from re-purposed materials. This guy is amazing!!

[@BHerbertAZ]

Great to meet the two of you at Expo yesterday! Fun chatting with you!!!!

[@JD_Mortal]

You need to build a roll-away porch to cover over the parking area. Like hide-away steps that roll under themselves in layers, but reverse it, so the tall part is out at the road and the low part is at the glass doors. That would give you more space and still qualify it as "parking space". Plus, it would give it a similar themed design to compliment your existing setup. While it is all folded-up, it would still be accessible as a high porch with steps, from the entrance-way. (Use the same industrial casters and a winch setup to automate it. Rolling down the cement parking pads as the guides.) When it is out, the spacing would be deck-thickness between layers. When it is rolled-up, the spacing would be twice that height, with a gap to place your feet as stairs. (You could make it a total flat deck, with a "drop down joint gap", to bridge the joints.) That would make it more compact, when rolled-up, and not as high.)