ESCAPE

Houseboats.

Ever floated the idea of a stint on a houseboat? Whet your appetite by diving into new book

Rock the Boat, which showcases the best in waterborne cabin culture.

BOUTIQUE BARGE

Regent’s Canal, London, UK; designed by Bert’s Barges.

Those in search of a unique stay in London should head to Bert’s Barges – a floating boutique hotel suite in narrowboat form, the first of a planned fleet of four in London, York and Bristol. Moored in East London’s hip borough of Hackney, the custom-built, steel-framed barge was outfitted with reclaimed clapboard walls, handmade encaustic tiles and engineered flooring. The Scandinavian-chic interior is beautified with vintage mid-century furniture and luxury amenities: a full kitchen, a walk-in shower, underfloor heating, a wood-burning stove, and a king-size bed with down and linen bedding.

The floating B&B is a spin-off project for interiors company Bert & May, an idea that came about when founder Lee Thornley needed a part-time base in London. The location of the company’s showroom on the canal inspired the idea of having a houseboat there: “I looked out at the water and thought, ‘Why not build something beautiful to go on it?’” •

FLOATING CABIN

Cotswolds, UK; interior design by Retrouvius.

Architectural salvage and design studio Retrouvius realised this project in collaboration with Eco Pavilions, who specialise in bespoke floating homes, offices, retreats and pavilions. The structures are hand-built in the company’s workshop in Hertfordshire, north of London, using responsibly sourced materials according to ethical work practices. For the interior, Retrouvius used reclaimed timber and tiles in combination with a harmonious blend of warm, natural tones to create a contemporary, rustic effect. The exterior includes an insulating green roof and a panel of large windows and doors that reveal views of pastoral beauty.

LAP IT UP In a world in which the ability to disengage from the constant whir of modern life is a rare luxury, a houseboat offers the chance to reconnect with nature and reclaim a sense of independence.

NATURE’S BEST Another highlight of this two-room, 50m2 dwelling clad in pale wood is the patchwork of wooden f loorboards repurposed as wall cladding and cabinets.