This 510-Square-Foot Houseboat Is a Total Surprise on the Inside

This darling little houseboat brings to mind the Gorton’s fisherman, and perhaps the Belafonte from The Life Aquatic, but none of those associations will prepare one for the elegance—and shocking spaciousness—that lies within.

How in the world does this much fabulousness fit into that little boat? If there’s one thing not generally associated with houseboats, it’s luxuriously open spaces. Usually, every single inch is accounted for and put to work, but this one has wonderfully high ceilings and plenty of serenely empty space. The light fixture, large framed art, and windows make the most of that space by drawing the eye up; meanwhile, all the natural light from the windows flows down over everything in the room. Similarly, the way the cork floor continues into the kitchen and then the bedroom beyond really helps elongate the space.

Here is a closer look at the living room, this time with the door to the bedroom closed. This is a much more spacious couch than one might expect to find on a houseboat, and it offers such comfortable seating options. The fascinating little tables could probably also serve as seating during gatherings. This arrangement is actually great for hosting, since the two seating areas are close together, allowing everyone to hang out.

Visually, the furniture is well chosen for enhancing the spaciousness: The classic white table disappears against the wall, while the chairs do the same against the floor. The sofa, rug, and chair seats are all very similar hues, keeping things peaceful, while the pops of blue throughout the home add vibrancy and reference the nearby water.

Nancy Mihlon and partner Matt have done a superb job renovating this houseboat, which happens to be for sale. It looks at least twice as large as its listed size of 510 square feet.

This kitchen is absolutely to-die-for, especially the live-edge counter and backsplash and the stunning salvaged slate cabinets. It is an amazing reversal of the usual kitchen configuration—slate/stone counters, wood cabinets—and there simply aren’t words for how incredible the two materials are together.

The wood paneled ceiling helps stretch out the feeling of the kitchen, as does the long narrow shelf.

Bathrooms are rarely shown in houseboat, trailer, and camper tours, so it’s a real treat to get to see one—especially one so special. The pebble floor must feel amazing underfoot, the wood counter links to the one in the kitchen, that and the shelf provide accessible storage space, and that Japanese-style cedar soaking tub is fascinating. The lovely bowl adds the dose of blue, but the true wonder is that blue ceiling—incredible.

This bedroom is tranquil (white walls, windows), yet cozy (ornate rug, plenty of textiles) and completely inviting. That hidden storage unit is pretty magical, but the wonder doesn’t end there…

It’s a vertical lift bed! With the bed lifted, this becomes another living room, a yoga studio, an office, or a playroom for kids. This isn’t a very large bedroom, but the white walls and horizontal lines help the space feel extended, while the windows pull the eye out beyond the walls.

This is the upper level lounge, a bonus sitting area, with a glimpse of the balcony beyond. Just imagine the views—what a dream.