Living small, sustainably in a Living Vehicle

The Living Vehicle, which is designed to be a permanent residence, on the go at Cabrillo Beach in Santa Barbara.

(Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)

May 9, 2018 12:06 PM PT

Architect Matthew Hofmann, 34, inside the Living Vehicle he designed. The sleeperbed comes down from the ceiling to accommodate his wife, Joanna, 30. The couple travel and work remotely from the Living Vehicle.

(Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)

Joanna Hofmann prepares a cup of tea in the kitchen.

(Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)

A view of the kitchen, with the pantry pulled out. The Living Vehicle, as shown, costs about $149,000 and can be hauled with a full-size pickup truck. The latest model, the LV Travel Series, starts at $90,000 and will be available beginning in the fall.

(Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)

Overhead storage in the kitchen.

(Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)

The interiors feature natural light, a full bathroom, high-end amenities and a washer and dryer.

(Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)

A washing machine, closet and a queen-sized sofa sleeper in the master bedroom.

(Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)

Matthew Hofmann and wife Joanna enjoy the retractable deck on the Living Vehicle at Cabrillo Beach. They divide their time between a boat in the harbor and the Living Vehicle.

(Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)

Architect Matthew Hofmann says he designed the Living Vehicle for people who want to live better, travel and don’t want to be tied to the demands of a home.

(Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)