A 350-Square-Foot House Boat Wows with Bold and Graphic Black and White Carpet Tiles

Name: Jamila Scarlett and 13-year-old twins
Location: Washington DC
Type of home: Boat House
Size: 350 square foot
Time lived in: 4 months, owned

Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: Our home is a floating condo that we can take out on the open seas. It’s a 1976 Coho Chris Craft, which is a gem with vintage mahogany throughout. I’ve updated the floors, ceiling, and galley (the kitchen). I live here with my 13-year-old boy/girl twins. When designing this space I decided to play with a black and white theme starting with the floors using graphic pattern carpet tiles.

By using a large round wood trim mirror and painting the beadboard ceiling white it really opens up the space. Then I chose a matte black countertop and a chrome and black faucet paired with a black large sink to update the galley. I found a gorgeous metallic ombre semi-flush mount fixture to go over the sink. Across from the galley are my living quarters. The multi-functional sectional was essential, having such small doors made it hard to bring everything in so I found a modular group at IKEA. Which has plenty of space for the three of us to lounge and watch movies using our projector overhead, it also doubles as my sleeping quarters. This piece pulls out to a queen-size bed with great storage too.

I like to say I live a simple but unique life and our home is a reflection of it. Being on the water centers me. There isn’t a lot that can be done to a boat, however the floor gives me life every time I enter. It’s like an adult playground or jigsaw puzzle. It reminds me not to take things so seriously and live a little.

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Mod craftsmanship with vintage refinement

What is your favorite room and why? ​My favorite is the upper deck of the boat, which is our second living room. Whether it be warm or chilly we can still relax on our rooftop enjoying the views.

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? The last thing I bought for my home was zebra print wallpaper ​that I used in my son’s bathroom (the aft head). It was an Amazon find.

Any advice for creating a home you love? No matter the size or location, it’s what brings you joy when you enter your home. So find pieces that make you smile.

This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.

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