Ideas for a Lounging or Entertaining Boathouse
November 7, 2019
At its foundation, a boathouse is a garage for boats, and so some homeowners keep the design simple and utilitarian. However, boating is often a leisure activity, so you may want to combine it with other leisure pursuits. Your boathouse provides the ideal platform for that endeavor.
Consider some of the following ideas for a second story or extension of your boathouse.
Sundeck
An idea for a simple extension for your boathouse is a sundeck. The designers can put it as a second story of your boathouse, taking inspiration from cruise ship design, or as a side extension. For this idea, the contractors will simply construct the deck out of your chosen material. Hardwood is still a valued material, but composite decking is more durable and low-maintenance.
For your sundeck, consider ways to include some shade and cooling. For instance, you may ask the designers to include a pergola for shade. You can install a fan, which also gives you access to lighting. Another option is to install a mister to keep you and your guests cool while lounging in the sun.
Dining Lounge
One of the great joys in warmer months is to dine outdoors. This pleasurable activity can be heightened if you add water. Your boathouse can easily accommodate an outdoor dining lounge. With a few modifications, a sundeck could double as a dining area.
For one, you'll need some food storage. You don't need to transform your boathouse into an outdoor kitchen, though that is possible. However, you'll want a method for keeping food cool on hot days. You can transfer portable coolers to the area when dining, or you could install a small refrigerator. Talk to your boathouse designers about electrical outlets to that end.
You may also want to devise a way to enclose the shaded portion of your deck even more than with the sundeck so that a sudden breeze or rainstorm doesn't ruin your meal. For example, you could install curtain rods for weatherproof curtains. Conversely, you could screen in a portion of the pergola.
Lounge Breezeway
In that vein, sunbathing may not be your preferred outdoor activity. Perhaps you want to enjoy sitting waterside while shielded from the sun. In that case, the designers should plan for an enclosed boathouse, likely on the second story. This enclosure can consist of just one wall and the roof with the sides left open.
For the front, you'll need a safety measure. Explore different railing options, keeping in mind the design style of both the boathouse and your own house. Try to match materials for this railing. Likewise, you'll probably want to incorporate screens on the sides. They'll allow the breeze to go through your enclosed lounge without completely opening the inside up to the elements.
Entertainment Cottage
A boathouse can also serve as an extension of your primary residence. In this case, you may want to elevate it to the level of your designated entertaining area. After all, many boaters enjoy sharing their pastime with family and friends.
To that end, you may want to transform the top story of your boathouse into an entertainment cottage. This space will function similarly to a finished basement in that you'll include similar amenities. For instance, you may want to incorporate some kitchen elements or even a bathroom.
This style of boathouse is likely to be more enclosed than the above varieties. What's more, you'll want to invest in heavy-duty waterproofing measures. However, with a fully enclosed boathouse, you can devise a full entertainment area complete with proper furniture, a television, and even a pool table. Likewise, consider wiring the boathouse for surround sound.
Combine your leisure activities by elevating your custom boathouse. Consult with the marine construction experts at
Edgewater Marine Construction, Inc.
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