The classic houseboat has been given a rather chic makeover across the pond.
A series of luxury floating homes, set along a crystal-clear freshwater lake in the U.K., have just popped onto the market with moorings available in Silverlake, a secluded vacation retreat nestled in Dorset. The 10 houseboats, brought to life by Koto design firm and developer Habitat First Group, allow you to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing creature comforts.
There are a few types of Koto’s floating homes up for grabs: Uku, an about 215-square-foot one-bedroom pad designed for short-term visits, and Shio, a nearly 510-square-foot two-bedroom oasis geared toward longer stays. There’s also a larger version of the Uku that measures just under 270 square feet, if you want a little more space.
The deck is the perfect perch to connect with nature.
Koto
A cut above traditional houseboats, Koto’s design-forward structures strike a perfect balance between form and function. The decidedly modern interiors are fitted with large windows, so you can take in the surrounding landscape. The open-plan living quarters also feature engineered timber floors and plastered white walls, resulting in an understated elegance throughout. All of the furniture and accessories are sourced from companies in the U.K. that use natural materials. The kitchen and the bathroom can be bespoke, too: in the washroom, for example, you can opt for a freestanding tub, an integrated bath with an overhead shower, or just a shower alone.
Each home is equipped with a partially covered deck, meaning you can relax and unwind amid Mother Nature all year round. And if you really want to up the ante, you can choose to upgrade your pad with a sauna, a hot tub, or a solar battery.
Silverlake has plenty of amenities for you to enjoy, too, including tennis courts, forest playgrounds, and a games area. Even better, the Silverlake Lido and Clubhouse will join the fray in 2026. The new spot will include a restaurant called Firefly, an outdoor heated pool, and a spa with hot tubs and treatment rooms.
A glimpse inside the floating home’s living room.
Koto
“We’ve created these houseboats to feel modern and luxurious, yet deeply rooted in place, peaceful spaces that foster a slower pace of life and a closer connection to nature,” Johnathon Little, Koto’s cofounder, said in a statement. “We’re delighted to bring them to life at Silverlake, an ecologically vibrant setting in Dorset that reflects our commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment.”
The best part is Koto’s floating homes are a bargain. The Uku starts at around a modest $196,000 (£145,000). Once you inquire about the property, the team will set out to build your abode. The first owners are expected to move in in 2026. That’s your next holiday home sorted, then.
Source: Vacation Home - robbreport.com
