Tucked away in the heart of nature, but still conveniently close to the city’s amenities, you’ll find Kate’s charming houseboat.
She’s been calling this tiny floating home hers since 2020, and it’s quite the beauty – a lovely houseboat from the 90s, measuring around 550 to 600 square feet, including the main level and loft bedroom.
Kate chose to live in this boat because of her love for water and her desire to lead a unique lifestyle.
Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of water and having the option to hop into a kayak for a sunset adventure – now that’s the kind of perks you get when you live on a houseboat.
Kate’s houseboat is a cleverly designed structure sitting on two aluminum pontoons. She’s even added extra flotation to balance the weight of the kitchen.
The boat is firmly anchored to the dock with sturdy mooring lines, and every six weeks, she gets the septic tank pumped out to keep things running smoothly.
And you might wonder how she manages the icy Canadian winters – well, she’s got that covered too!
Kate installed bubblers in the water to keep it agitated and prevent freezing. Plus, there’s a heat trace line to make sure the water lines stay unfrozen too.
Stepping onto the houseboat, you’re instantly welcomed by a small yet functional kitchen. It’s amazing how well-equipped it is despite the limited space.
There’s a half fridge, a small oven, and a two-burner stove – everything you need to whip up a good meal.
And guess what? Kate has even managed to fit a washer and dryer combo, a real luxury in such a compact space.
Clever storage solutions are scattered all over the houseboat, including a pantry for essential food items and other storage nooks for her belongings.
The living room is Kate’s pride and joy; it serves as her office and dining area too. It’s a bright and airy space, thanks to the abundance of windows that let in natural light.
To keep warm during the winter, there’s a wood stove, and she’s thoughtfully included a fold-out desk with a peaceful view of the water.
Oh, and the living room also has a large couch that doubles as a guest bed – a perfect spot for visitors to crash.
Now, let’s not forget about the bathroom; it may be small, but it’s fully functional with a bathtub and a normal flushing toilet.
And up in the half loft, you’ll find Kate’s cozy and well-lit bedroom, big enough to fit a queen-size bed. There’s even a hanging closet and a wardrobe for all her clothing needs.
Kate’s most treasured space on the houseboat is the outdoor deck.
It’s a paradise adorned with plants and herbs, offering a peaceful spot to unwind and soak in the surrounding nature. And yes, you’ll spot her trusty kayak on the deck too, always ready for a quick adventure on the water.
Living on a houseboat does come with its fair share of challenges. Winters can be harsh, and maintenance is a regular requirement.
Yet, for Kate, it’s all worth it because of the sense of community at the marina and the one-of-a-kind lifestyle it offers. She sees it as a long-term housing solution that perfectly complements her way of life.
The cost of living on a houseboat is comparable to sharing an apartment in downtown Toronto.
There are monthly expenses like mooring fees, electricity, firewood for winter warmth, and insurance. Though not cheap, the unique lifestyle and quality of life make it a worthy investment in Kate’s eyes.
Kate’s houseboat is more than just a home; it embodies her lifestyle choice of embracing simplicity, nature, and community.
It’s a space she’s thoughtfully designed and lovingly maintained, offering the perfect blend of comfort and adventure.
Living on a houseboat might not suit everyone, but for Kate, it’s a dream come true – a reminder that home is not just a place but a reflection of one’s lifestyle and values.
Check out the full home tour in the video below!
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