Knit from Within

Continuing a long and distinguished history of floating homes in Seattle, this new floating home is located on Lake Union, in the heart of the city. Offering panoramic views south of downtown Seattle, Queen Anne Hill to the west and Gas Works Park northward, this home takes full advantage of its location.

Given the limited footprint, (29' x 37') and the desire of the owner to maximize both interior living space and outdoor entertaining potential, the plan flips the typical residential model by locating the public spaces on the second level and the private spaces on the float level. This strategy allowed for the consolidation of entertaining spaces in one large space thereby taking advantage of the available area, promoting flexibility of use, and affording maximum exposure to views and light.

The float level accommodates the Entry, Master Bedroom, Dressing and Bath. Also located at this level is the Guest Bedroom and Bath. Exterior spaces are provided for the moorage of a boat on the east side, whereas a private terrace for the Master Bedroom is located to the south. Each bedroom is extensively glazed to promote views and light whereas the bathrooms are enclosed, yet defined by high windows allowing for light and ventilation. A translucent stair tower "knits" the two floors together and becomes a central visual element at night when lit.

The second level contains the Living and Dining areas complimented by an open Kitchen to the north and generous terrace to the south. A small Guest Bath is tucked unobtrusively behind the diffused glass of the stair. The terrace is accessed via a sliding wall system that enables it to become a direct extension of the interior spaces blurring the distinction between inside and outside. A spiral stair provides direct access to a roof top deck. The roof top deck affords a generous area for entertaining, while appreciating the panoramic views.

Energy concerns were addressed in a variety of means. The hydronic heating and hot water is provided by an on demand boiler. The concrete floor of the float level acts as a heat sink for the bedrooms at that level.

Exterior materials were chosen for there aesthetic qualities and low maintenance. Aluminum panels, cladding the bathrooms, complement the storefront windows on the float level. The second floor is clad in a fiber cement panel called Slatescape Xtreme. These integrally colored panels compliment the lighter toned Alaskan Yellow Cedar windows utilized on the second floor. The exterior is a direct reflection of the internal development.