Living on water isn't all about having a place to live, and to people who opt for that, it is akin to living wild, with the awareness that every time you step outside, it could be the beautiful environment that welcomes you. Dominic Lessons of a Voyage describes eight breathtaking floating houses from around the world.
Embracing Freedom on the Water
And there is a bizarre excitement in leaving commonplace comfort on the land for the savage, the open water. The thrill of living on a houseboat offers dwellers strength. They feel harmony and, while experiencing the absence and the presence of the waves, they find an inner peace, as they meditate and discover their true selves. Be it a remote edge of a village or part of a vibrant waterfront, these places of shelters, also known as floating homes, due to their neutral environment, offer an unusual mix of quietness and an atmosphere of social interaction.
As the world's people face the difficulties of climate change, the choice for many isn't just about lifestyle - it is a situation of necessity. The sea floods in coastal areas are increasing on a large scale. The "living-floating" technology is still a sustainable solution that will benefit them as these levels change. Some houseboat dwellers are trendsetters in sustainable lifestyles, using reusable materials and renewable power to design their innovative homes.
The wavy canals of Amsterdam and the calm waters of Brazil's Jaguariuna reservoir are examples of projects that show that humans can be very creative and humane indeed. Every crew member has an individuality, a story of adaptation, hardiness, stubbornness, and wanting to survive at tea.
Reetainer, UK:
(Photo: Brent Darby)
Max McMurdo's converted shipping container turned houseboat is a testament to creativity and resourcefulness. With clever space-saving solutions and eco-friendly features, this floating home offers a mortgage-free haven on the River Ouse in North Yorkshire.
Le Cid, France:
(Photo: Tom Peppiat)
Agnès Combes Bernageau's transport barge-turned-home on the Seine is a vibrant oasis in the heart of Paris. With its stylish interior and a strong sense of community, Le Cid offers a refreshing departure from conventional urban living.
Anibal Guiser Gleyzer's self-built houseboat in Argentina's Paraná delta is a testament to minimalist living and environmental stewardship. Inspired by traditional flat-hulled barges, this eco-friendly abode offers a tranquil retreat amidst the lush wetlands.
Zazi Houseboat, Netherlands:
(Photo: Muk Van Lil)
Jeanne de Kroon's colorful houseboat in Amsterdam celebrates vintage charm and community spirit. With its vibrant interior and close-knit neighborhood, Zazi Houseboat offers a whimsical escape from city life.
Oldenburg, Denmark:
(Photo: Christina Kaiser/ Styling by Rikke Graff Juel)
Lis and Ove Nilsson's spacious houseboat in Denmark is a testament to Scandinavian design and maritime heritage. With its minimalist interior and cozy atmosphere, Oldenburg offers a serene retreat for family and friends.
Soggybottom Shanty, US:
(Photo: Shivaun deLisser)
Siva Aiken's rustic houseboat in the US into America's rich river culture and DIY ethos. With its recycled materials and off-grid lifestyle, Soggybottom Shanty offers a glimpse into a simpler way of living.
Altar, Brazil:
(Photo: Mel Audi)
Rodrigo Martins' eco-friendly houseboat in Brazil is a model of sustainable living and modern design. Altar offers a tranquil escape from urban life with its sleek architecture and off-grid amenities.
De Walvisch, UK:
(Photo: Roger Bool)
March 19, 2019- 4 pm. Zatorski & Zatorski's historic sailing clipper in London is the best illustration of making art out of shipbuilding and historical reproduction of the high level of professionalism in the maritime industry. This place has a nostalgic interior and a community of creative people. The combination of the historical past with the buzzing creativity makes this place one of a kind.
This is only a parable of what water life represents. Beyond being a nighttime narrative, the water lifestyle celebrates humanity, the spirit of community, and a natural attraction that will always last. From cozy log cabins to chic, futuristic structures, they can be described as a world with promises for endless breakthroughs, like the ocean itself.