Designed to Move

Overview

Redesigning a 200-square-foot motorhome into a livable, multi-functional sanctuary for full-time digital nomads and their dogs.

My Role

Researcher, Designer, and Usability Tester

In collaboration with my partner, I led the redesign of the RV interior from discovery to execution, applying UX research principles to inform layout decisions, functional improvements, and livability. I directed the build through sketching, measurement, and hands-on iteration to create a space that met the residents’ emotional and practical needs.

The Challenge

We bought a beautiful RV with leather recliners, a granite-facade dinette, and glossy finishes throughout. But within a few days of living in it full-time, we realized the space wasn’t designed for the rhythm of daily life. I began monitoring the interaction cost in the original layout. Storage was limited. Work setups were awkward. And it simply didn’t feel like home.

It had been built for short getaways—not for working, living, or traveling long term.

In summary, the space was not enjoyable, usable, or useful — resulting in a high interaction cost.

We needed to rethink the main living area to better support:

  • Two adults working remotely

  • Two rescue pups (who believe they run the roost)

  • Long-term travel and storage needs

  • A flexible, multi-use space

Discovery

Approaching the project like a UX researcher, I paid close attention to how we actually lived in the space—how we moved, worked, relaxed, and got in each other’s way. Observing the problem in context clarified friction points:

  • No dedicated work setup

  • Limited and inefficient storage

  • Wasted or awkwardly used space

  • Tight pinch points that disrupted flow

To keep our ideas grounded in reality, I also mapped out key constraints:

  • Slide widths

  • Electrical wiring

  • Maximum weight load

  • Available tools and materials

  • A modest budget

  • A tight timeline

Goals

With our friction points and constraints clearly defined, we clarified design goals to guide the build—prioritizing function, flexibility, and emotional comfort.

We aimed to:

  • Replace modular luxury with functional flexibility

  • Integrate storage, seating, lounging, and work zones

  • Create a cozy, uncluttered aesthetic that felt like home

  • Design with empathy—for humans and dogs alike

To bring these goals to life, I sketched a modular cabinetry system that:

  • Included a fold-out desk

  • Integrated a hidden monitor lift

  • Created a guest/daybed sofa

  • Maximized drawer storage for everyday essentials—including a dedicated drawer for dog food and meds

Prototyping &
Iteration

To test ideas quickly and make the most of our tight timeline, I led a rapid prototyping process using low-fidelity materials and hands-on iteration in collaboration with my partner. The process involved:

  • Mocking up cabinetry and layout using cardboard cutouts and masking tape to test scale, flow, and interaction

  • Adjusting drawer configurations based on real storage needs—including tools, snacks, gear, linens, and dog supplies

  • Sketching interaction points between seating, screen, and table zones to ensure smooth transitions throughout the day

This fast and flexible process helped us identify potential issues early, make quick modifications, stay on schedule, and within budget.

Execution

My partner led the physical build, guided by my designs and layout plans.

Key features included:

  • 14 custom drawers to maximize storage and an expansive multi-purpose worktop

  • A pull-out workstation with foldable legs

  • A bespoke cushioned sofa for relaxing, working, and napping

  • An integrated monitor lift for dual-purpose TV and video editing

  • Hidden LED lighting, wall-mounted glassboard, and open shelving for books and essentials

  • A dedicated ‘Dog Drawer’ for dog food, medications, and treats — the most pawsitively received feature in the build

The Outcome

The redesign transformed the RV from a showroom into a sanctuary.

We built ten times the storage, and now live and work comfortably in the space full-time. The layout adapts to our routines instead of forcing us to adapt to it. It feels practical, intentional, and calming.

And our pups? They settled in immediately, proving that good design works for every member of the pack when you keep the user at the center.

Insights

UX principles are powerful beyond the screen

This project reminded me that good design isn’t limited to apps and interfaces. Research, iteration, and empathy can transform physical spaces just as effectively.

The best solutions are grounded in real life

Observing how people (and dogs) actually live in a space is a foundation of good design.

Every space is an interface

Physical environments have flows, friction points, feedback loops, and moments of delight.

Prototyping works anywhere

Low-fidelity sketches and taped outlines helped us test ideas, avoid missteps, and build with confidence and within budget.

Empathy scales

Designing for multiple species encouraged us to put ourselves in our dog’s paws — creating a space that exuded safety, functionality, and flow for the entire pack.

Reflection

This was more than just a remodel — it’s a reflection of how we live, work, play, and rest.

Designing for functionality in a small space forced us to make intentional decisions at every step. It reminded me that good design isn’t about maximizing features—it’s about meeting user needs, with empathy and clarity.

By treating ourselves as users and our RV as an interface, we created something that feels not only functional but personal. The result is a sacred space that supports our routines, reflects our values, and makes room for the nomadic life we live.