Renovated Houseboat a Unique Choice for Seattle Luxury Homebuilder

“I have a suspended water garden, with an aerator, between the house and dock. When the water lilies are in bloom, it’s fantastic,” says Dean. The 1,300 square ft. houseboat has two levels of living space. The first is comprised of a large office with a seating area, a shop, and a fully-stocked wet bar. It also has access to a covered deck and Adirondack chairs to take in the stunning water views. The open floor plan of the upper level offers a large living room with fireplace, state-of-the-art kitchen, and master bedroom with attached bath.

An open floor plan and careful planning allows the 1,300 sq. ft. houseboat to have a master bedroom, state-of-the-art kitchen, 2 bathrooms, an office, and bike shop—yet still feel spacious. Erlenmeyer pendants and sconces found throughout the home are by Hubbardton Forge. “I lived there for a full year before starting the remodel, to get a feel for it. The original plan was to only make cosmetic changes—we ended up taking it down to the studs,” Dean comments. Lacey Boyer, Dean Homes’ Senior Designer, assisted with the renovation and the challenges of working on a floating residence. “We had modernized houseboats for clients before,” she says. “The challenges are lack of space and making sure the exterior is suited for the harsh marine environment. To make the process of renovation a bit easier, we decided to take it out of the water to work on it in the Ballard neighborhood shipyard.”

The wraparound deck provides the perfect spot for relaxing, entertaining and enjoying gorgeous water views.

Dean’s favorite feature is the garage door in the living room that opens to grand views. “I love my shop—I have 5 bikes that I work on,” he replies when asked about his favorite features, “but, my favorite feature is a garage door in the living room.” It was a bit of an afterthought he admits, but thanks to Lacey’s suggestion, it was the perfect addition. “It opens to a great view of Mt. Rainier and a Juliet balcony.”

The entryway greets guests with a sitting area, fully stocked bar, and access to an exterior covered deck.

Lower deck entryway, office and sitting area.

Large living room space allows for a sectional sofa and fireplace.

Never sleepless in Seattle. A comfortable master bedroom with roomy closet and attached bath.

Streamlined shop space for projects and storage for Dean’s 5 bikes.

Modern ensuite bathroom vanity flanked by Hubbardton Forge Axis sconces.

Deep porcelain soaking tub and wood covered vaulted ceilings, add luxury touches to the master bath. Dean had to balance the practical elements and lack of space with things he really wanted—always asking himself, “What do I absolutely need?” In the end, he didn’t have to sacrifice anything at all. “After having lived all over Seattle, I learned that I don’t need a big space. This houseboat was within walking distance to great restaurants, my shop, and it was low-maintenance. Absolutely perfect.”

Owner Dean Jasper