Jack McGrath from Newry has spent the past 19 months converting a double decker bus in to a self-contained home. This unique self-build is a fine example of the tiny house movement which focuses on sustainable living and self-sufficiency.
Just two years ago, the bus was a fully operational mode of public transport. Now it is a home, having been completely transformed inside it boasts a kitchen, bathroom amenities and bedrooms – under its new owner from Co Down. Jack purchased the iconic mode of transport in England whilst he was studying at university in Nottingham.
After graduating, Jack was keen to get his foot on the property ladder and was put off by the pricing housing options available to him. A self-build of this type allows for mortgage free living and its this aspect that appealed to Jack who said, “My original motivation was the show like (Channel 4’s) Amazing Spaces, and lots of YouTube videos about alternative living spaces.”
Choice made, he located his double decker outside Liverpool and impressed by the 29-year-old Leyland model, he stumped up £5,500 to purchase the bus in May 2017.
The accommodation now has a double bed and a single bed on the top ‘deck’, whilst on the ground floor there is a dining area, which also can be converted into a second double bed.
The space is heated by a wood burner and the well-stocked kitchen boasts an oven, fridge and of course the multi-purpose dining area. There is a a bathroom with basin and toilet and a self-contained external shower unit. Once the conversion is complete, Jack estimates that the project coast around £16,000 – which he saved during his studies.
Originally, Jack intended for the bus to be his first home, but now he believes it could be the start of a great business venture by renting it out to holiday-makers looking for a luxury caravan experience.
