Old Skool Builds

CUSTOM BUS
BUILDS

Crafted to perfection.

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OUR STORY

Brad and Dona Lia spent decades remodeling homes and perfecting their craft before taking their skills on the road. After transforming a 1985 Crown Supercoach school bus into their own rolling home, they toured the country and connected with some of the most talented builders in the bus and van conversion world.

Their adventures eventually led them back to Ventura, California, where they opened Old Skool Builds, a workshop dedicated to breathing new life into vintage RVs and buses through inspired craftsmanship and collaboration with the industry's best.

Their son, Michael, raised on sawdust and imagination, joined the team after teaching wood shop in both Santa Barbara and Ventura. Together, they blend innovative design with time-tested craftsmanship to reimagine vintage RVs and buses for a new generation of travelers.

Brad and Dona Lia outdoors
Bus interior

Our Services

Roof Raise

Transform your bus into a true home on wheels. A roof raise adds the height and headroom that makes all the difference — giving you that spacious, livable feeling where you can stand tall, breathe easy, and forget you're in a bus.

Roof Raise

RV Window Installations

Have a leaky or drafty window, or just want more natural light — we can brighten your day!

RV Window Installations

Custom Cabinetry & Fabrication

Bespoke cabinetry, designed to fit your space — no cookie-cutter solutions here.

Custom Cabinetry & Fabrication

Design & Planning

From interior design and color schemes, to floor plans, to full system schematics. We have a vision, not just the means to execute on one.

Design & Planning

Off-Grid Solar Systems

Designed to keep your systems and appliances running, using only the top-of-the-line equipment like Victron Energy systems.

Off-Grid Solar Systems

Consultations

In person, on the phone, or on Zoom/FaceTime meetings — because four minds are better than one.

Consultations

GALLERY

Exterior panel work with power drill
Bus roof structure and metal framework
Crown bus in the workshop
Finished bus interior with custom lighting
Custom cabinetry and countertop install
Plumbing installation in progress

HOW WE WORK

We start by getting to know you and what your goals are for your bus build. Whether it's a quick phone call or an in-person visit, we'll discuss your vision, budget, and timeline to make sure we're the right fit.

OUR CLIENTS

“

Brad, Dona Lia, and Michael are an amazing team. With the efficiency only attainable through either a decades-old relationship or close family ties — combined with impeccable tastes and style, and die hard work ethic; this amazing crew transformed our old school bus into a unique masterpiece of a home.

Steph & Kristen

@ourbuspoppy

LET'S BUILD
TOGETHER