The Blatto Boat by GO’C Studio is a compact floating residence nestled among houseboats at the north end of Seattle’s Lake Union. Built within a narrow 12 × 40 ft footprint and sitting atop a custom steel hull, it challenges conventional marine structures with high-performance engineering and spatial finesse. With a 4 ft-tall hull that lowers the center of gravity, the main living level sits below the waterline, offering stability and direct dock access via mid-level entry stair when seasonal water levels rise or fall.

Inside, space functions like a ship’s cabin: a staircase wraps around the bathroom to optimize storage and movement, while the kitchen’s L-shaped layout and sliding-glass doors open to a deck. A moveable island doubles as dining and workspace, and extended window sills serve as built-in bookshelves—every detail is multifunctional. Above, integrated cabinetry leads to a sizable roof deck, with an upper planter terrace accessed independently for entertaining or growing produce. Clerestories and skylights bring natural light deep into the interiors. With meticulous planning and a rooftop view of Seattle, Blatto Boat exemplifies thoughtful micro-living in a nautical context.

Image Credit: Andrew Pogue