Full-Time RV Remodel: Because Chaos Isn’t a Feature
Alright, let’s get this embarrassing part out of the way: here’s the “before.” It’s ugly. Disorganized. No workspace. A couch the size of a small boat that barely gets used. The kitchen? Counter space is basically a myth. The air fryer is hogging half the real estate (and yes, we cook almost everything in it). Stove? Rarely touched. Oven? Used once in a year. Seriously.
Welcome to full-time RV living. Nothing’s perfect, especially in a 35-foot motorhome. Everything needs tweaking if you want to survive without losing your mind.
Here in the Pacific Northwest, the weather is basically a swimming pool. Rain everywhere. Flooding everywhere. So spring remodel planning has begun. Things might change, but here’s the rough blueprint:
Kitchen
Microwave upgrade: Out with the old, in with the combo microwave/convection/air fryer. This lets us kill the propane stove/oven, add a conduction stovetop, and reclaim the oven space for storage. More storage = fewer fights over where to put things.
Trash: Tiny cabinet trash can? Joke. Considering a proper slide-out unit. Wife will be happy. Life will be easier. That’s a win-win.
Storage: Pull-out shelves, organizers, compartmentalization. Every inch counts. If it’s not functional, it’s trash.
Dining Room
We almost went full “table and chairs” and then remembered why RVs have dinettes: space. So cushions get an upgrade. Factory cushions? Paper-thin after ten minutes of sitting. New cushions = no complaints from the butt department.
Storage: Under-seat solutions. Use the space you already have without making it uncomfortable. Efficiency, people.
HVAC
Front A/C died last summer. Rear unit? Can’t cool the whole coach.
Idea 1: Move rear unit forward + slap a 12V bedroom unit in. Problem: 12V units are weak sauce compared to 110V. Works overnight, but don’t expect miracles.
Current plan: Roof-mounted heat pumps for heating and cooling. Better airflow, better comfort, fewer bulky old systems in the way. Basically: stop sweating inside your home.
Living Room
L-shaped sleeper sofa: peeling, uncomfortable. Dog doesn’t care. We do.
Options:
Replace with loveseat + workspace.
Dual-reclining heated RV sofa.
Upgrade captain’s chairs for driving pleasure.
I’m leaning toward the reclining sofa. Keeps a desk/work area functional, plus lets us sneak in hidden storage and under-sofa drawers. Comfort + function = win.
This remodel is all about surviving full-time RV life without losing your sanity:
Optimize storage
Upgrade appliances and HVAC
Create functional spaces (workspace, dining, living)
Keep it cozy
Because let’s be honest—if your RV doesn’t make life easier, you’re just hauling around a fancy tent with wheels.
