Joining a long tradition of floating houses in Seattle, the Portage Bay Float Home sits right beside the banks of Lake Union. The house, designed by Studio DIAA, is built on a floating log foundation that was erected in the early 1900s. The design is decidedly modern with an abundance of clean lines and a dark color scheme.
The Portage Bay Float Home is a single-storey residence measuring in at a total of 650 square feet. The walls are made from Richlite, a composite material, and dark cedar, which gives the house its moody look. The Portage Bay Float Home has a wraparound deck and windows everywhere but the bathroom, ensuring the space has ready access to the outdoors as well as a steady supply of natural light. The house's unique design won it a 2021 Housing Award from the American Institute of Architects
Serene Single-Storey Floating Houses
The Portage Bay Float Home Sits Off the Banks of Lake Union
Trend Themes
1. Floating Homes - There is an opportunity for architects or designers to explore more innovative ways to construct floating homes from renewable materials, reducing the environmental impact while creating more sustainable and affordable housing options.
2. Single-storey Residences - With the rise of minimalist and small-space living, single-storey residences are trending and can be an opportunity for home builders and architects to develop affordable housing solutions that are both functional and stylish.
3. Dark Color Scheme for Interiors - There is an opportunity for interior designers and architects to explore darker color schemes for interior spaces, creating a moody and calming atmosphere that can improve mental health and wellbeing.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architects and designers can explore innovative technologies and sustainable materials to build homes that offer a unique living experience, set apart from traditional housing methods.
2. Construction - As the demand for single-storey and floating homes rises, builders and construction companies can explore more efficient and cost-effective ways to create these homes, while also reducing their carbon footprint.
3. Interior Design - With the increasing popularity of dark color schemes and minimalist design, interior designers can create more sustainable homes that are both beautiful and functional with a calming atmosphere.