This Floating Villa, the fifth in the fleet of residential marine projects undertaken by LAB, combines the comfort of an elegant a private home with the romantic sensibilities of living on the water, affording an opportunity of escape that only a boat can convey.
Approached from the south bank of the river Thames by way of a private entry, The cedar clad exterior façade, is set out to a carefully orchestrated rhythm of spacing. Where appropriate these timber batons either reveal or conceals the vessel in a decorative manner that also provides necessary internal shading.
An expansive open plan arrangement at main deck level includes living room, snug, and dining room, with views out across to Hurlingham Park is chic in its simplicity and conveys an atmosphere of calm sophistication.
The elemental kitchen, of bespoke painted furniture and marble island, leads the eye through to the living area, passing the suspended fire, and out through the central sliding panoramic window, which frames the view of the constantly changing riverscape.
Ascending via the cantilevered stair and double height space you reach the lower deck which is a more private affair. The sitting room acts as a vestibule to the sleeping accommodation, affording access to the master bedroom suite by way of a concealed door in the panelling towards the stern, while further bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms are accessed via the shimmering corridor towards the bow.
The design of the living room, chic in its simplicity, conveys an atmosphere of calm and sophistication. The elemental kitchen, comprising bespoke painted furniture and white marble island, directs the eye through to the living room, with suspended fire, and out through the central sliding panoramic window supplied by Carminati, which frames the view of the constantly changing riverscape.
The openness and spaciousness of the upper floor contrasts with the private and intimate character of the rooms; the colours and materials chosen (white, blue, black and wood) are the leitmotif of a project that exalts the concept of “tailor-made” to the maximum level. The distribution corridor of the sleeping area also deserves special mention. The rigidity of its forms is transformed by spotlights and a metal plate on the ceiling. The last one has some “liquid” reflections which create the effect of traces of the water left by a boat moving along the river.
Lab Architects has managed to create a space that is in no way inferior to a real home. The stereotypical and monotonous decor of boats has been transformed by eclectic and comfortable furniture and accessories; small porthole windows have been replaced by Skyline System, created to give some special design and refinement to the rooms.