Meet the electric, fantastic, nomadic Boathome
The power of architecture is shown when it lifts up the viewers' perspective. When it challenges to adopt a new trend, or even a life style. At this point most houseboats are either a converted ship, or a typical floating home. We barely witness a houseboat moving steadily along the river. ‘Boathome’ is one of the rare cases making it work. Thanks to this brave concept, Boathome has been awarded to be Electric Boat of the Year 2017 by Association Française du Bateau Electrique.
By Linh Vo | Images by Boathome
The ‘Godfather’ of this idea is Guy Zins. As an engineer he designed this eco-friendly houseboat from scratch. After the conceptual design was put on paper, his daughter Sarah Zins brought this drawing into reality. Sarah is a graduate of a well–established ISEG Business School and commercial director of ‘Boathome’.
A high-end floating villa that takes you to your next destination - that is the concept of the Boathouse.
100% electric, sustainable and autonomous
Back to 2017, Sarah Zins was facing many technical problems that had to be tackled before the goal of self-sufficiency was reached. For instance: how to make energy run sustainably and independently? The answer was found in 1500 kg of batteries stored in the boat. They provide enough power for the engines as well as all household appliances on board. On the roof, 15 solar panels are installed to recharge those batteries, even while driving.
Solar panels collect energy for the 1500 kilos of batteries that power this houseboat.
In case the sun does not provide enough energy, recharging can be done by using power outlets on shore or using the 18 kW generator on board. Boathome has a sewage treatment system that keeps rest water, that is discharged into the waterways, clean and a filter system to make drinkable water from the river.
9 months well spent
The first prototype took her team 9 months to build. But the time needed to build new orders will be reduced to 6 months, so that is a 33% gain, not bad. But that is nonetheless still quite some time be waiting. The good news is however, that you will have enough time to study and get your boat driving permit. Because it is required when driving your own Boathome over the river.
If you want to drive this houseboat in France you need a boat driving permit. Regulations vary per country.
Sizes and rates
Boathome has been working on different types of floating structures such as normal floating homes in Germany, a floating working space in Nantes, France and a floating restaurant in Dubai.
Both the size and level of finishing can be adjusted to the demands of the buyer.
Due to the different models such as a motorized version varying from 44 to 71 m2 or the floating house without motors (135 m2), the prices vary from €178.000 for the original version up to €390.000 for fully upgraded version (including 20% VAT tax).
The captains seat is located at the end of the living room table - without a doubt the best place on board if you want to be in charge of your next destination.
If you dream about living on the water, Boathome will definitely make that dream come true in its full potential.
PHOTO IMPRESSION OF THE BOATHOME HOUSEBOAT
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