Maritime design is a natural pairing with the form-follows-function minimalism of Bauhaus. With its curved walls and porthole windows, this houseboat serves as a pied-à-terre that maximizes its small footprint for life on the water with plenty of space for work, relaxation, and play.
Windows were enlarged to make the most of the views, and skylights were added to bring in more natural light. Rounded windows and portholes throughout echo the curve of a hull, evoking life on the water.
Small settings replace one large room. Sofas, a citrine hanging chair, built-in benches, and a peg wall become seats, standing desks, and storage, while a floor-to-ceiling rope wall doubles as the stair balustrade.
The kitchen is the hub of the home and the best vantage point from the upper floor. Red millwork frames stainless steel counters over exposed apple plywood, complementing the coved, barrel-vaulted ceiling.
The lower level is set up for entertaining, with room for instruments, jam sessions, and movie nights. White oak plywood walls add warmth, and a cork lounge chair sourced at Fog Fair anchors the seating.
In the guest room, a desk converts to a side table when the Murphy bed comes down, and custom folding doors hide the workout equipment when it’s not in use.
Naturally, a houseboat moves, and the design accounts for it. Furniture can be weighted down, most storage is fully attached, and magnetic glides and doorstops hold doors open where needed. None of it shows.
Kasten Builders
GENERAL CONTRACTOR
Live Oak Fine Cabinetry & Millwork
MILLWORK
Lust Design Fabricate
CUSTOM METAL FABRICATION
Yedda Morrison
STYLIST
Laure Joliet
PHOTOGRAPHER