You open the door to your motorhome and instead of feeling cramped, you feel cozy. Instead of clutter, you see clever storage. Instead of wishing for more space, you appreciate how perfectly every inch works. This isn’t magic—it’s smart design for small spaces, and you can absolutely achieve it.
Small motorhome living doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or style. It means being intentional about every square inch. The right furniture choices, storage solutions, and design tricks can make a 20-foot rig feel twice as spacious. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-timer, these compact solutions deliver big impacts without breaking your budget or your back.
TL;DR Maximizing small motorhome spaces requires multifunctional furniture, vertical thinking, and strategic design. Key solutions include convertible dinettes, Murphy beds, fold-down tables, and custom storage that uses every inch. Light colors, strategic mirrors, and layered lighting make spaces feel larger. Decluttering ruthlessly and using organizers maintains order. Real-world examples show that with creativity, even the smallest rig can feel spacious and functional. The goal isn’t more space—it’s smarter space.
Key Takeaways
- Multifunctional furniture wins: Murphy beds, convertible dinettes, and fold-down tables transform spaces
- Think vertical: Use walls for storage—cabinets to ceiling, hooks, magnetic strips
- Light colors expand: White, cream, and light gray make small spaces feel airy
- Mirrors create depth: Strategically placed mirrors visually double your space
- Declutter ruthlessly: Every item must earn its keep
- Custom storage rules: Built-ins and clever organizers use awkward spaces
- Lighting layers matter: Multiple light sources prevent shadows and gloom
The Philosophy of Small Space Living
Living well in a small motorhome isn’t about deprivation. It’s about intentionality. Every item, every piece of furniture, every design choice must earn its place.
The mantra of successful small-space dwellers: “A place for everything, and everything in its place.” When space is limited, clutter isn’t just unsightly—it’s crippling. You can’t function if you’re constantly moving stuff to reach other stuff.
According to apartmenttherapy.com, small space living requires “editing your possessions ruthlessly” and choosing “furniture that works as hard as you do” .
Furniture That Transforms
The secret weapon of small motorhome design is furniture that changes shape. These pieces do double—or triple—duty.
Murphy Beds: The Space-Saving Champion
A Murphy bed (or wall bed) folds up into a cabinet when not in use, freeing your living area for daytime activities. Modern Murphy bed mechanisms are smooth, safe, and surprisingly easy to operate.
In the Winnebago View 24D, the Murphy bed combo transforms from lounging space to comfortable queen bed at the touch of a button . While you might not install power beds in a DIY renovation, the concept applies: look for fold-down bed mechanisms that save floor space during the day.
DIY options: Murphy bed hardware kits are available online for $200-500. Build a custom cabinet that matches your interior and enjoy a real bed that disappears.
Convertible Dinettes
The classic RV dinette converts to a bed, but some designs are smarter than others. Look for:
- Legless tables: Jayco’s exclusive legless dinette table eliminates obstacles
- Roll-top designs: Expand when needed, retract when not
- Pivoting dinettes: Reconfigure the entire living area
In tiny spaces, consider a flip-up table mounted to the wall. It provides dining or workspace when needed and folds flat when not, creating open floor space .
Sofa Beds and Futons
A quality sofa bed or futon provides comfortable seating by day and sleeping by night. Modern options from IKEA or RV-specific suppliers offer better comfort than old jack-knife sofas.
One couple replaced their bulky RV sofa with an IKEA Friheten sofa bed, which includes hidden storage under the chaise . The result: comfortable seating, guest bed, and extra storage in one unit.
Fold-Down Tables and Desks
Wall-mounted fold-down tables are small-space heroes. Mount one in the kitchen for extra prep space, in the living area for a desk, or outside for a camping table. When not needed, they fold flat against the wall, taking zero floor space .
Pro tip: Install a fold-down table with a latch to keep it secure during travel.
Stackable and Nesting Furniture
Nesting tables tuck under each other when not needed. Stackable stools provide extra seating that stores in a corner. These simple solutions add flexibility without permanent footprint.
Storage Solutions: Using Every Inch
Storage in small motorhomes requires thinking beyond standard cabinets.
Vertical Thinking
Walls are underutilized real estate in most RVs. Solutions include:
- Cabinets to the ceiling: Use every inch of vertical space
- Hooks and pegboards: Hang pots, pans, tools, and accessories
- Magnetic strips: Hold knives, spice jars, and metal tools
- Over-door organizers: Clear plastic pockets on cabinet doors hold spices, toiletries, cleaning supplies
One creative RVer mounted a magnetic strip inside a cabinet door for spice jars—they’re accessible, visible, and secure during travel .
Under-Bed and Under-Seat Storage
The space beneath beds and seats is prime real estate. Options:
- Lift-up platforms: Gas struts make access easy
- Drawers: Pull-out drawers beat crawling and digging
- Bins and baskets: Labeled containers keep items organized
In the Winnebago View 24T, the heated gear garage provides massive storage for outdoor equipment . For DIY, build drawers into existing under-seat spaces.
Awkward Space Solutions
Every motorhome has weird nooks—corners, spaces under sinks, gaps beside appliances. These are opportunities:
- Corner shelves: Use wasted corner space
- Toe-kick drawers: The space under lower cabinets can hold shallow drawers
- Above-cabinet storage: Use baskets on top of cabinets (secure for travel)
- Behind-the-door organizers: Hang on bathroom or closet doors
Multi-Purpose Storage
Choose storage that serves multiple functions:
- Ottomans with storage: Seat plus hideaway
- Benches with lift lids: Seating plus gear storage
- Beds with drawers: Sleep plus store
Design Tricks That Expand Space
Sometimes the best space-saving trick is visual—making the space feel larger than it actually is.
Light Colors Throughout
White, cream, and light gray reflect light and create airy feel. Dark colors absorb light and make spaces feel smaller. This is why almost every successful RV renovation features light walls and cabinets .
But don’t go sterile: Add warmth with wood accents, textured textiles, and plants. The contrast against light backgrounds makes these elements pop.
Strategic Mirrors
Mirrors visually double your space. Place a large mirror opposite a window to reflect the outdoors. Use mirrored closet doors to expand the bedroom. Even small mirrors in strategic locations add depth .
Window Treatments Matter
Heavy valances block light and make rooms feel smaller. Replace them with:
- Roman shades in light linen: Filter light while providing privacy
- Roller shades: Clean, minimal, available in light-filtering options
- Cellular shades: Insulate while maintaining clean look
The goal is maximum natural light with privacy when needed.
Layered Lighting
Poor lighting makes small spaces feel gloomy. Layer your light sources:
- Overhead LEDs: General illumination
- Under-cabinet lights: Task lighting for counters
- Reading lamps: Directed light for specific activities
- Accent lighting: LED strips behind valances or under furniture
Dimmers let you adjust from bright workspace to cozy evening .
Declutter Surfaces
Countertops, tables, and shelves should be mostly clear. Every visible item adds visual weight. Keep only daily-use items accessible; everything else lives behind closed doors .
One full-timer’s rule: “If I haven’t used it in a month, it goes. Space is too precious for souvenirs of intentions.”
Real-World Small Space Examples
The 19-Foot Class B Transformation
A couple transformed their 19-foot Class B into a full-time home with clever choices :
- Custom banquette seating with massive storage underneath
- Murphy bed that reveals a desk when folded
- Fold-down table mounted to the wall
- Custom cabinets reaching the ceiling
- Magnetic spice rack inside a cabinet door
- Shower pan replaced with smaller one, gaining closet space
Result: A tiny rig that feels spacious and functions for full-time work and life.
The 24-Foot Class C Family Rig
A family of four maximizes their 24-foot Class C :
- Bunk beds custom-built for kids (instead of cab-over only)
- Under-bunk drawers for each child’s clothes
- Fold-down desk for homeschooling
- Ceiling storage for lightweight items
- External gear garage for bikes and camping equipment
The key: every family member has designated storage, preventing clutter wars.
The Minimalist Solo Traveler
One solo traveler’s 20-foot rig proves less is more :
- Convertible dinette (never used as bed—removed for storage)
- Custom closet instead of dinette bed
- Under-sofa storage for all kitchen gear
- Wall-mounted tablet for entertainment (no TV)
- Fold-down table for workspace
Her philosophy: “I don’t need a bed for guests I never have. I need space for my life.”
Quick Wins: Projects You Can Do This Weekend
1. Add Hooks Everywhere
Install hooks on walls, cabinet sides, and doors. Hang coats, bags, aprons, towels—anything that currently sits on surfaces .
2. Install Over-Cabinet Baskets
Baskets on top of cabinets hold lightweight items like extra pillows, towels, or dry goods. Secure with bungee cords for travel .
3. Add Drawer Organizers
Inexpensive bamboo or plastic organizers turn messy drawers into efficient storage. Cutlery, utensils, tools—everything finds its place .
4. Mount a Spice Rack
Magnetic spice jars on a metal strip inside a cabinet door keep spices accessible and free up shelf space .
5. Replace Cabinet Hardware
New knobs and pulls cost little but refresh the space and can include hooks for hanging towels or oven mitts .
6. Add Under-Shelf Baskets
Wire baskets that hang from wire shelving create instant storage for lightweight items .
7. Install a Fold-Down Table
A weekend project that adds workspace without permanent footprint .
Comparison Table: Small Space Solutions by Area
| Area | Challenge | Solution | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchen | No counter space | Fold-down table, cutting board over sink | Doubles prep area |
| Living | Too much furniture | Murphy bed, convertible dinette | Day/night flexibility |
| Bedroom | Closet space lacking | Under-bed drawers, wall hooks | Maximizes every inch |
| Bathroom | Tiny with no storage | Over-toilet shelf, magnetic strips, door organizer | Uses vertical space |
| Entry | Shoes and coats pile up | Narrow shoe cabinet, coat hooks | Keeps clutter contained |
| Everywhere | Cluttered surfaces | Declutter, designated homes for everything | Peace of mind |
Chart: Small Space Storage Priorities
This chart shows which storage solutions deliver the most impact for the effort.
Impact vs. Effort rating for small space solutions (0-10)
FAQ: Small Motorhome Space Questions
How do I make my small motorhome feel bigger?
Use light colors on walls and cabinets, add mirrors to reflect light, maximize natural light with minimal window treatments, layer lighting to eliminate shadows, and keep surfaces clutter-free .
What’s the best furniture for small RVs?
Multifunctional furniture that serves multiple purposes: Murphy beds that fold away, convertible dinettes, sofa beds with storage, and fold-down tables .
How do I maximize storage in a tiny motorhome?
Think vertically—use walls for cabinets and hooks. Use under-bed and under-seat spaces. Add organizers inside cabinets. Use over-door organizers. Create custom storage for awkward nooks .
Can I add more cabinets to my motorhome?
Yes, within reason. Consider adding cabinets above existing ones (to ceiling), or building custom storage into unused spaces. Ensure weight distribution and secure mounting .
What colors make a small RV feel larger?
Light, neutral colors: white, cream, light gray, soft beige, pale pastels. Dark colors absorb light and make spaces feel smaller .
How do I organize a small RV kitchen?
Use vertical storage for pans, magnetic strips for knives, under-shelf baskets, drawer organizers, and cabinet door organizers. Keep countertops clear .
What should I get rid of in my small motorhome?
Anything unused in the last year. Duplicate items. “Just in case” items that never get used. Bulky items that could be smaller. Sentimental items that take up space without bringing joy .
Are Murphy beds worth it in small RVs?
Absolutely. They transform a living area from bedroom to lounge during the day, making the space usable for more hours .
How do I create a workspace in a small motorhome?
Wall-mounted fold-down table, laptop tray that slides under furniture, or convertible dinette table. Some use the cab passenger seat with a lap desk .
Can I live full-time in a small motorhome?
Thousands of people do. Success requires ruthless decluttering, smart storage, and accepting that “home” is a feeling, not square footage .
Pro Tips from Small Space Veterans
The One-In-One-Out Rule: For every new item brought in, one must leave. Prevents accumulation .
Seasonal Swap: Store off-season items (winter clothes in summer, summer gear in winter) in hard-to-reach spaces .
Go Digital: Books, movies, documents—digital versions save massive space .
Use Clear Containers: You can see contents without digging .
Label Everything: When space is tight, you can’t afford to search .
Think Outside: Use exterior storage for bulky items like chairs, grills, and leveling blocks .
Accept Your Limits: You can’t have everything. Choose experiences over possessions .
The Psychological Side of Small Space Living
Living well in small spaces isn’t just about physical solutions—it’s about mindset.
Embrace Cozy Over Cramped: Same square footage, different perspective. Cozy feels intentional and comfortable. Cramped feels accidental and frustrating .
Establish Routines: Daily habits—making the bed, doing dishes immediately, putting things away—prevent chaos .
Go Outside: The ultimate space expander is the outdoors. Your motorhome’s living room extends to every campsite .
Remember Why You’re Here: You chose this life for freedom, adventure, simplicity. The small space is part of the package—and part of the gift .
Wrapping It Up
Revamping a small motorhome interior isn’t about wishing for more square footage. It’s about using every inch you have more intelligently. Multifunctional furniture, vertical storage, thoughtful design, and ruthless decluttering transform cramped quarters into cozy homes.
The best part? Most of these solutions don’t cost much. A weekend with a drill, some organizers, and a fresh perspective can completely change how your space feels. And every time you open the door to your cleverly designed rig, you’ll feel proud—not of how big it is, but of how smartly you’ve used it.
“Good motorhome interior design isn’t about square footage — it’s about how intelligently you use every inch of available space.”
What’s your best small-space hack? Found a clever solution that transformed your rig? Drop it in the comments—we all want to steal your ideas!
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