From a classic American school bus to a stunning, handcrafted home – the story of Arizona is a testament to the transformative power of vision and design.
Talib and Chloe, the creative minds behind Indigo & Olive, reimagined this 40ft Blue Bird TC/2000 with inspiration drawn from old Spanish houses, the textures of the desert, and a deep commitment to sustainable living.
The result is a unique space that feels both grounded and ethereal, practical and luxurious. Now, after four years of skoolie living, Arizona is ready for its next adventure, offering a rare opportunity to own a piece of skoolie history.
This Skoolie Conversion is For Sale
This camper conversion is currently for sale through Quirky Campers
TL;DR
Arizona is the ultimate tiny house on wheels. Step inside this 40ft American school bus conversion, lovingly crafted by Indigo and Olive…
Base Vehicle Specification
This early 2000s Blue Bird TC/2000 was originally part of a UK trial to explore the feasibility of American-style school buses.
While the trial didn’t lead to widespread adoption, this particular bus, with its automatic transmission and 6.0L engine, is super rare in the UK.
↠ Manufacturer: Blue Bird
↠ Model: TC/2000
↠ Engine: 6.0L Cummins
↠ Year: Early 2000s
↠ Fuel: Diesel
↠ Transmission: Automatic
↠ Length: 40ft
↠ Drive: Right-hand drive
↠ Converters: Indigo & Olive
The Genesis of Arizona: From School Bus to Tiny Home
The transformation of Arizona from a classic yellow school bus into a breathtakingly beautiful home is a story of vision, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to nature.
In 2020, Indigo & Olive embarked on this ambitious project, drawn to the challenge of reimagining a 40ft Blue Bird TC/2000. Their goal was simple yet profound: to create a “beautiful and cosy handcrafted and organic space in the forest where we could live surrounded by nature.“
The inherent curvature of the school bus presented a unique set of design challenges during the skoolie buildout process. Working with the existing lines of the vehicle, rather than against them, became a guiding principle.
Over the course of a few months, Talib and Chloe poured their hearts and souls into the conversion, meticulously crafting a space that reflects their love for natural materials, sustainable living, and the textures of old Spanish houses and desert sands.
Arizona is more than just a converted school bus; it’s a rolling sanctuary, a testament to the power of thoughtful design to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Skoolie Conversion Interior
Stepping inside Arizona is like entering a tranquil, earth-toned sanctuary. The interior reflects Indigo & Olive‘s design philosophy, prioritising natural materials, handcrafted details, and a sense of organic elegance.
The walls and ceiling are clad in birch plywood, creating a warm and inviting foundation. This is beautifully contrasted by the textured finish of Bauwerk paint in the shade ‘Bone’ – a natural, lime-based paint that mimics the look and feel of traditional plaster or cob.
The flooring, also crafted from birch plywood, adds to the cohesive and organic feel.
The result is an interior that feels both grounded and inspiring, a perfect reflection of the natural beauty that surrounds it, and a space filled with ethereal beauty.
Skoolie Build Floor Plan
↠ Central living area with sofa, desk, and galley kitchen
↠ Bathroom featuring a deep soaking bathtub, shower, and compost toilet
↠ Raised “Nest” bedroom above the engine, with integrated storage
The interior floor plan of this 40ft Blue Bird TC/2000 skoolie conversion is a masterclass in creating a functional, flowing living environment.
Talib and Chloe faced the inherent challenges of a school bus layout – namely, the wheel arches and the long, narrow shape. They developed innovative ways to utilise the space above the wheel arches – incorporating a deep soaking bathtub on one side and a wardrobe on the other over the rear arches, and the kitchen over the front.
The main, central part of the bus is dedicated to the kitchen and living area. Here, you’ll find a sofa, desk area, and a galley kitchen.
Towards the rear is a bathroom, with the deep soaking tub and a shower, and a compost toilet is opposite. Just beyond this, we have the bedroom, which features a raised platform for the bed (cleverly positioned above the engine to save space), along with ample storage.
This thoughtful layout ensures a natural flow between the different areas, making the most of the available space while maintaining a sense of openness.
Seating & Sleeping
↠ 7ft oak-framed sofa (can be configured into an L-shape)
↠ Foam and sheep’s wool sofa upholstery (75cm deep cushions)
↠ Organic wooden desk (155cm x 46cm) with two bar stools
↠ Fixed double bed (190cm length)
Arizona offers thoughtfully designed seating and sleeping arrangements that maximise both comfort and the feeling of spaciousness within this skoolie conversion.
The main living area features a generous, 7ft long oak-framed sofa, which can also be configured into an L-shape with the use of a separate section, for ultimate relaxation. The deep, 75cm cushions, crafted from a blend of foam and sheep’s wool, provide exceptional comfort for lounging.
Alongside the sofa, a dedicated workspace is provided by an organic wooden desk (155cm wide x 46cm deep) accompanied by two bar stools. This creates a functional area for work or study without intruding on the main living space.
The sleeping area, affectionately nicknamed “The Nest,” is cleverly positioned above the engine at the rear of the bus. This raised platform not only provides storage space, but also creates a cosy and private retreat.
The double bed (190cm in length) is surrounded by ample storage, and simple handmade lampshades complete this organic and serene design.
Plumbing & Bathroom
↠ Deep soaking bathtub (Omnitub) positioned over wheel arch
↠ Giant brass rainfall shower head
↠ Bauwerk paint with eco-friendly sealant
↠ Compost toilet
↠ Sliding slatted wooden door
↠ Brushed brass fixtures and fittings
↠ Antique Ukrainian dough bowl sink (sealed with tung oil)
↠ Original opening window
↠ 7-stage reverse osmosis water filter, with a separate little tap on the countertop
The bathroom in Arizona is a truly unique element. Tucked away behind a sliding slatted wooden door—a design choice that saves space—the bathroom makes ingenious use of the wheel arch.
A deep soaking bathtub by Omnitub, a Somerset-based company, is positioned on top of the arch, creating a relaxing and unexpected feature.
Above the tub, a giant brass rainfall shower head offers a revitalising seated showering experience. The walls are sealed with an eco-friendly sealant for steam resistance.
Brushed brass fixtures and fittings add a touch of rustic warmth throughout.
A compost toilet enhances the van’s self-sufficiency, and the bathroom also features an opening window, which was one of the few original bus windows to be retained.
Finally, adding to the handcrafted features in this bus, the sink – positioned just outside the bathroom – was originally an antique Ukrainian dough bowl, sealed with tung oil.
Kitchen
↠ Spacious galley kitchen with light grey microcement countertops
↠ Lightweight and durable countertops
↠ 55 x 45 x 25 cm sunken ceramic sink
↠ Brass taps and splashback
↠ Neff oven
↠ Four-burner induction hob
↠ Fridge
The kitchen in Arizona is a beautiful example of how thoughtful design can create a highly functional and inviting space within a skoolie conversion.
Spanning both sides of the central living area, the galley-style layout maximises openness while providing distinct zones for cooking and preparation.
Light grey microcement countertops, chosen for their lightweight durability and slight flexibility, offer a smooth, modern surface. These are beautifully complemented by the warm wood tones of the cabinetry and the substantial, 55 x 45 x 25 cm, sunken ceramic sink.
Brass taps and a matching splashback add a touch of refined warmth.
Cooking is handled by a Neff oven and a four-burner induction hob, providing ample cooking options.
The considered layout and carefully chosen appliances show that the pleasures of cooking are not lost on van life.
Storage Solutions
↠ Central living area with sofa, desk, and galley kitchen
↠ Bathroom featuring a deep soaking bathtub, shower, and compost toilet
↠ Raised “Nest” bedroom above the engine, with integrated storage
↠ Large oak shoe rack in entrance
Arizona excels in its thoughtful approach to storage, seamlessly integrating a variety of solutions throughout the skoolie conversion without compromising the open and airy feel.
In the bedroom, “The Nest,” a large hanging wardrobe and a separate closet provide ample room for clothing and personal belongings. Under-bed storage further maximises the use of this area.
The kitchen boasts a large spice rack, a cutlery drawer, and a good selection of purpose-built drawers and cupboards. There is even a display shelf to showcase treasured items, adding to that homely feel.
Additional storage compartments are located underneath the bus itself, ideal for less frequently used items or larger equipment.
This comprehensive and well-integrated approach to storage ensures that everything has its place, contributing to the overall sense of calm and order within Arizona.
Lighting
↠ Abundant natural light through numerous windows and three large skylights
↠ Spotlights for focused task lighting
↠ Two handcrafted, woven hanging lights in the bedroom
↠ Integrated lighting throughout the van
In Arizona, light itself is a key design element. Talib and Chloe of Indigo & Olive prioritised natural light throughout the skoolie conversion, understanding its importance for creating a bright, open, and welcoming atmosphere.
The strategic placement of numerous windows and two large skylights ensures that the interior is bathed in sunlight throughout the day. This abundance of natural light not only enhances the sense of spaciousness but also connects the interior to the seasons.
To supplement the natural light, carefully chosen fixtures provide both functional and ambient illumination.
Discreet spotlights offer focused task lighting where needed, while handcrafted, woven hanging lights add a touch of organic texture and a warm, inviting glow.
This combination of natural and thoughtfully placed artificial lighting creates a versatile and comfortable environment, adapting to different needs and times of day.
Heating & Insulation
↠ Diesel heater (with separate tank) in bedroom
↠ Glass-fronted log burner in living area (with detachable stainless steel flue)
↠ Insulated lime wash walls
↠ Thick curtain separating cab area
Arizona is designed for comfortable living in a variety of climates, thanks to a thoughtful combination of heating and insulation.
A diesel heater, discreetly located in the bedroom and fuelled by a separate tank, provides reliable warmth.
In the main living area, a glass-fronted log burner offers an inviting and cosy atmosphere. The log burner features a clever design, with its stainless steel flue connecting through the back of the stove (rather than the top) to accommodate the roof-mounted solar panels. However, this will need to be detached when driving.
A thick curtain separates the cab area from the main living space, further minimising heat loss.
For an extra eco-conscious touch, Talib and Chloe recommend using carbon-neutral coffee logs from Wood Fuel Wales alongside foraged wood, creating a hot and sustainable fire.
Get articles like this straight to your inbox:
School Bus Conversion Exterior
Arizona’s exterior is a striking reflection the design vision. Embracing the inherent character of the Blue Bird school bus, its classic lines and overall form have been retained, but gone is the traditional yellow! Instead, a warm, inviting shade of “fawn” from @paintmanpaint, evokes the hues of desert sands and echos the interior’s natural aesthetic.
The exterior modifications are minimal and purposeful: upgraded double-glazed windows, two large skylights, and the subtly integrated stainless steel flue for the log burner.
This restrained approach allows the iconic school bus silhouette to shine, a nod to the beauty of simple, well-considered design.
Windows & Ventilation
↠ Most original windows replaced with double-glazed units
↠ Toughened glass from Roman Glass
↠ One original opening window retained in the bathroom
↠ White linen curtains with brass rails
A key part of Arizona’s transformation was the thoughtful upgrade of its windows, balancing the desire for natural light with the need for efficiency and comfort.
Most of the original, single-glazed school bus windows were replaced with double-glazed units, significantly improving insulation and reducing energy loss. The choice of toughened glass from Roman Glass ensures durability and safety.
The large window panes provide panoramic views, connecting the interior to the surrounding landscape.
The bathroom retains one of the original bus windows, an inspired decision, offering both a nostalgic touch and practical ventilation.
White linen curtains, hung on brass rails, provide privacy and soften the light, adding to the overall serene atmosphere.
This careful attention to windows and ventilation contributes significantly to the bright, open, and airy feel of the interior.
Skylights & Fans
↠ Large skylight over bed
↠ Large skylight in central living area
Complementing the ample windows, Arizona features strategically placed skylights that further enhance the natural light and ventilation within the skoolie.
A large skylight is positioned directly above the bed in “The Nest,” offering stargazing opportunities and a sense of connection to the outdoors.
An additional large skylight is located in the central living area, flooding the space with daylight and contributing to the open, airy atmosphere.
These skylights, combined with the numerous windows, ensure a bright and well-ventilated interior, minimising the need for artificial lighting and climate control during the day.
Get articles like this straight to your inbox:
Off-grid Power Set-up
Arizona is well-equipped for extended off-grid living, thanks to a robust solar power system and a thoughtful approach to energy management.
The roof is fitted with four 400W solar panels, providing a substantial 1600W of total solar capacity. This energy is harnessed and stored in two 300Ah lithium batteries, configured for a 24V system, resulting in an impressive 7200Wh of stored energy. A Victron Multiplus 3000VA Inverter ensures that this stored power can be used to run standard 240V appliances.
For added convenience, 240V plug sockets are located in the bedroom, living room, and kitchen. A USB charger and car port charger are also conveniently accessible next to the bed. While the solar setup provides ample power for much of the year (April to October, approx.), a generator or external power hook-up is recommended during the winter months to ensure consistent energy availability.
Hot water is provided via two interchangeable 19kg LPG gas bottles, which are stored externally and are not directly connected to the bus.
Fully Loaded Off-Grid Electrical System
↠ 4 x 400W solar panels (1600W total)
↠ 2 x 300Ah lithium batteries (24V system, 7200Wh storage)
↠ Victron Multiplus 3000VA inverter
↠ 2 x interchangeable 19kg LPG gas bottles (external storage)
Vanlife Verdict
Arizona is a skoolie conversion that truly lives up to the hype. It’s a beautiful, functional, and inspiring example of what’s possible when vision, skill, and a commitment to quality converge. Talib and Chloe, drawing inspiration from the textures of old Spanish houses, desert sands, and a deep connection to nature, have created a masterpiece on wheels. Its influence on the vanlife community worldwide is undeniable; this bus conversion set new standards for skoolies.
Vanlife Hub Team
For four years, Arizona was more than just a home for Talib and Chloe; it was a sanctuary, a creative space, a vessel for growth, and even a nurturing nest where they welcomed their first child.
Now, as they move on to a new chapter, this remarkable skoolie conversion for sale offers a rare opportunity for someone else to embrace the skoolie lifestyle, surrounded by the calming, organic aesthetic that defines this unique build.
Our final verdict?
Arizona isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a legacy of thoughtful design, sustainable living, and a testament to the power of pursuing your dreams. It’s a rolling embodiment of home, crafted with intention and waiting to inspire its next chapter.
This School Bus Conversion is For Sale
This camper conversion is currently for sale through Quirky Campers
🌟 We’re in awe of Arizona’s natural aesthetic and handcrafted details. What do you think of this one-of-a-kind skoolie from Indigo & Olive? Let us know in the comments!
Please note: Vanlife Hub’s campervan reviews are unbiased and unpaid, offering genuine insights into the intricacies of vanlife conversions. Check out more reviews: Campervan Tours and get in touch if you’d like to be featured!
Get articles like this straight to your inbox:
School Bus Conversion Ideas
If you’re looking to build or transform a bus into a tiny home, these articles will help you on your journey:
How Much Does a Campervan Conversion Cost (UK)?
How Much Does Vanlife Cost in the UK?
FAQs About this Home on Wheels
What is a “skoolie,” and why are they popular for conversions?
A “skoolie” is a converted school bus, typically a retired American school bus like this Blue Bird TC/2000.
Skoolies are popular for conversions due to their robust construction, spacious interiors, and relatively affordable price compared to other large vehicles.
Their iconic shape and nostalgic appeal also add to their popularity, and they offer a blank canvas for creating truly unique and personalised spaces that feel like home.
Are skoolies street-legal and easy to drive?
Arizona is a 40ft, right-hand-drive traditional school bus registered as a commercial bus. While it is drivable, its size requires careful planning and consideration, particularly regarding route selection and parking.
Potential owners should be aware that a specific license may be required to operate a vehicle of this size, depending on local regulations. You may also need commercial vehicle insurance. If in the US, requirements may vary from state to state.
The current owners have parked it in one location for the duration of its conversion. Separate transport will be required to move it from its current location. If an MOT is required, this can be discussed.
How has the textured, plaster-like finish been achieved on the walls?
The unique, textured wall finish in Arizona is achieved using Bauwerk paint in the shade Bone. This is a natural, lime-based paint that mimics the look and feel of traditional plaster or cob, contributing to the van’s organic and cave-like aesthetic.
What are the countertops made of?
The countertops in Arizona’s kitchen are crafted from light grey microcement. This material was chosen for its lightweight durability, slight flexibility (important for a moving vehicle), and modern aesthetic.
What are the benefits of a 7-stage reverse osmosis water filter?
A 7-stage reverse osmosis water filter, like the one installed in Arizona, provides exceptionally pure drinking water.
The multiple stages of filtration remove a wide range of contaminants, including sediment, chlorine, heavy metals, and bacteria, resulting in clean, safe, and great-tasting water. This is particularly beneficial when living in a bus where water sources may vary.
Could Arizona be used as a business or rental property?
Yes, Arizona has excellent potential as a unique and profitable business venture. Its stunning design and handcrafted features make it highly appealing for the glamping or Airbnb market.
Talib and Chloe have successfully rented Arizona for £180 per night during peak season and report consistent bookings. Based on their experience, renting the bus for an average of four nights a week for six months could generate approximately £17,280 in revenue. With full occupancy, the potential earnings could reach £30,240 or more, and the season could be extended.
The solar power system keeps running costs very low during the tourist season. However, it’s worth noting that winter use might require a 240V hook-up for consistent power.
Important Notice: All images used in this article are shared with explicit permission from Indigo & Olive. These images remain the property of Indigo & Olive and may not be copied, reproduced, or used elsewhere without their direct permission. If you wish to use any of these images, please contact them for explicit authorisation.
