A houseboat built in 1986 has undergone the most incredible transformation in Canada. The tiny floating home was deemed unfit for human habitation before a couple decided to lovingly transform it into a work of art. It took Jason and Cayley a year and a half to fully restore the boat to its former glory…
As a shipwright and a carpenter, the couple has seen their fair share of difficult projects. “Well, this is what we’ve been up to lately, friends. We discovered this gem in Esquimalt in September. It was an excellent fit for us because I enjoy living on the water and Cayley has always admired the concept of Tiny Homes.”
“It was far too rough for us to move into, so we had it towed to Canoe Cove and hauled out for a major refit.” I figured I’d post some before shots, with plenty more to come. “I can’t wait to see what the two of us can do as a team with this thing,” Jason said on Instagram as @wood and wind.
“I came out here to learn wood boat construction, but I’ve been living on the water for six years now,” Jason explained. “And it’s been fantastic. It becomes ingrained in your blood.” When the couple dug deeper into the project, they frequently thought they were in for more than they bargained for.
“We discovered a little more rot in the hull than we expected.” But it appears that this is the game. Almost everywhere the fiberglass was compromised, the plywood had to be replaced. But the rot was also present in all of the frames back here. When the weather warms up, fairing and fiberglass will be installed to complete these repairs…” said Jason.
‘Pax’ was originally purchased for $6,000 by the couple, but there was something about it that they saw potential in, so they decided to take a leap of faith, which led them on the most incredible journey. The floating home was 30 feet long and 12.5 feet wide, so it was no small feat.
The roof area has been transformed into a stunning open lounge. Imagine sitting here on a warm evening with a glass of champagne and some snacks, watching the orange-hued sun set in the distance. A lazy day of sunbathing is also on the agenda.
Cayley designed the bathroom and its layout while keeping in mind the limited space available in this floating home. She even squeezed in a small tub to make this space both beautiful and functional. The boat’s batteries have also been cleverly hidden in a box that doubles as a bench.
There is even a wine cellar in an uninsulated storage area of the floating home, which adds to the natural cooling required for this purpose. There’s a cute dinette where you can eat while gazing out at the water. Of course, we saved the best for last…