Houseboat Floor Plans: How to Maximize Space on the Water
By Abu Rizal at: April 24, 2020
If you’re considering living on a houseboat, then you’ll need to consider your floor plan carefully.
Houseboats come in all shapes and sizes, and a well-designed floor plan can maximize your living space while making sure you have all the amenities you need.
Here are seven tips to consider when designing your houseboat floor plan.
Consider Your Lifestyle and Needs
Before you start designing your houseboat floor plan, consider your lifestyle and needs.
Do you need a lot of storage space? Do you want a spacious living area?
Do you plan on entertaining guests? Once you have a clear understanding of your needs and lifestyle, you can start designing a floor plan that works for you.
Create a Flowing Layout
Houseboats have limited space, so it’s important to create a flowing layout that maximizes your living area.
The key is to make sure that each area of your houseboat has a clear purpose and flows seamlessly into the next.
For example, you may want to create an open plan living area that leads into the kitchen and dining area.
Maximize Storage Space
Storage space is at a premium on houseboats, so it’s important to maximize your storage options.
Consider building storage units under your bed, using built-in cabinets,
and using hooks and shelves to store your belongings.
You may also want to invest in multi-purpose furniture, such as a bed that doubles as a sofa.
Design a Functional Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of any home, and this is especially true on a houseboat.
When designing your kitchen, consider the appliances you need, the amount of counter space you require,
and the amount of storage space you’ll need for your pots, pans, and utensils.
Choose the Right Bathroom Layout
Bathrooms on houseboats can be tricky to design due to the limited space.
Consider using a wet room layout that combines the shower, toilet, and sink into one space.
You may also want to consider installing a composting toilet to save space.
Create a Comfortable Sleeping Area
Sleeping on a houseboat can be a unique experience, but it’s important to create a comfortable sleeping area.
Consider building a bed with built-in storage, and use high-quality bedding to ensure a good night’s sleep.
Invest in Outdoor Living Space
Houseboats offer the unique opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors, so it’s important to invest in outdoor living space.
Consider adding a rooftop deck or a small patio area where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
In conclusion, designing a floor plan for a houseboat requires careful consideration of your lifestyle, needs, and available space.
By following these seven subheadings, you can create a floor plan that maximizes your living space
while providing all the amenities you need to enjoy life on the water.
Houseboat Floor Plans: How to Choose the Right Design for You
Houseboats are becoming increasingly popular as more people look for unique ways to live on the water.
However, designing a houseboat floor plan can be challenging as there are different models and designs to choose from.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the various types of houseboats available and discuss how to choose the right houseboat floor plan for you.
Houseboat Models: What are the Different Types of Houseboats?
There are several types of houseboats available, each with its own unique design features.
The four main types of houseboats are headhouse, aft cabin, outboard, and center deck.
- Headhouse Headhouse houseboats have a raised living area at the front of the boat, with a lower level at the back. This design allows for a more open living space and a better view of the water.
- Aft Cabin Aft cabin houseboats have the living space located towards the back of the boat, with a bedroom or sleeping area at the front. This design provides a more private sleeping area and can be ideal for families or couples.
- Outboard Outboard houseboats have the living area located on the main deck, with the sleeping area located in a loft or second level. This design maximizes living space and can be ideal for those who want a spacious living area.
- Center Deck Center deck houseboats have a central living area, with bedrooms or sleeping areas located on either side. This design provides privacy and can be ideal for larger families or groups.
Houseboat Floor Plans for a Headhouse Design
Headhouse houseboats have a unique design that allows for a more open living space.
The main living area is located at the front of the boat, with the sleeping area located towards the back.
The floor plan for a headhouse design can be open and spacious, with large windows and a raised ceiling. Some headhouse designs also include a rooftop deck or sunroom.
Houseboat Floor Plans for an Aft Cabin Design
Aft cabin houseboats have a more traditional layout,
with the living area located towards the back of the boat and the sleeping area towards the front.
The floor plan for an aft cabin design can include a spacious living area with a large kitchen, dining area, and living room.
The sleeping area can include one or two bedrooms, with a private bathroom.
Houseboat Floor Plans for an Outboard Design
Outboard houseboats have a unique design that maximizes living space.
The main living area is located on the main deck, with the sleeping area located in a loft or second level.
The floor plan for an outboard design can include a large living area with a modern kitchen, dining area, and living room.
The sleeping area can be located in a loft or second level, with a private bathroom.
Houseboat Floor Plans for a Center Deck Design
Center deck houseboats have a central living area, with the sleeping area located on either side.
The floor plan for a center deck design can include a large living area with a modern kitchen, dining area, and living room.
The sleeping area can include one or two bedrooms, with a private bathroom.
Gibson Houseboat Floor Plans
Gibson houseboats are a popular brand of houseboat, known for their spacious designs and luxurious amenities.The floor plans for Gibson houseboats can include multiple bedrooms, a modern kitchen, a large living area, and private bathrooms.
Gibson houseboats also often include outdoor living spaces, such as a rooftop deck or sunroom.
How do you Choose the Right Houseboat Floor Plan for You?
When choosing a houseboat floor plan, it’s important to consider your lifestyle and needs.Do you need a lot of storage space? Do you want a large living area
for entertaining guests? Do you want a private sleeping area or a more open floor plan?
These are all important factors to consider when choosing a houseboat floor plan.
Additionally, consider your budget and the size of the houseboat.
Larger houseboats tend to be more expensive, but they also offer more living space and amenities.
Smaller houseboats can be more affordable, but may not have as many amenities or as much living space.
It’s also important to work with a reputable houseboat builder or designer to ensure that the floor plan meets your needs and is structurally sound.
Look for a builder with experience in designing and building houseboats, and ask for references or examples of their previous work.
In conclusion, designing a houseboat floor plan can be a fun and exciting process, but it’s important to consider your needs and budget when choosing a design.
Whether you choose a headhouse, aft cabin, outboard, center deck, or Gibson houseboat floor plan,
make sure to work with a reputable builder or designer to ensure that your houseboat is safe, functional, and enjoyable to live in.