10 Unusual Lakeside Homes from Around the World

Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of water right outside your bedroom window.

Living beside a lake offers a serene escape and a connection to nature that urban environments often lack.

Now, take that image and infuse it with architectural creativity and you have something truly remarkable: unusual lakeside homes that offer more than just a picturesque view.

Living lakeside can range from cozy cabins to floating architectural marvels, challenging our very notion of what a home can be.

These unique dwellings harmonize innovation with the tranquility of waterside living, ensuring the experience is as unparalleled as the designs themselves.

The world is dotted with lakeside residences that prove the versatility and imagination of architects and homeowners alike.

From sustainable egg-shaped studios to opulent palaces, each home tells a story of vision meeting the placid beauty of lakefront living.

The following array of residences showcases the innovative spirit of their creators while promising a rare glimpse into the world's most unusual lakeside abodes—places that truly must be seen to be believed.

Floating Homes in Seattle, Washington, USA

Ever dreamed of living on the water, but not too keen on the idea of seasickness?

Seattle's floating homes might be your perfect solution.

Imagine sipping your morning coffee as ducks paddle by your window or watching the sunset reflect off the city skyline from your deck—it's all part of the lakeside lifestyle here.

What's on Offer?

• Location: Prime spots like Westlake Avenue and Northlake Way give you front row seats to Seattle's vibrant marine scenery.
• Designs: From iconic residences with modern flair to charming houseboats that bring to life the cozy haven you've envisioned.
• Eco-Friendly Options: Many homes have incorporated green building practices, reducing their footprint without compromising on comfort or style.

Noteworthy Dwellings

1. Hawk's Nest: An iconic Lake Union home featured in the New York Times.

1. Located at: 2466 Westlake Ave N, Unit 12
2. Asking Price: $3,000,000

2. Modern Lofted Houseboat: A beacon of light and style, right on Fremont's side of Gas Works Park.

1. Find it at: 933 N Northlake Way Slip 14
2. Listing Price: $1.45 million

3. The Aurora: Boasting 4,850 square feet of docked delight.
4. Houseboat 9: A stunning residence with views of Lake Union, Mount Rainier, and the downtown skyline.

1. Situated at: 933 N Northlake Way Unit #9
2. Marketed at: $6,200,000

5. Lakeside Lovenest: A Netflix-famous abode that once graced the screens of "Stay Here."

1. Last sold for: $490,000

So, ready to take the plunge into floating home living?

Seattle's unique homes offer a lifestyle that's a buoyant blend of city living and tranquil lake life.

Who knows, your dream home might just be afloat waiting for you!

Lake Palace in Udaipur, India

Ever imagined staying in a home surrounded by water, where the walls echo centuries of history?

Udaipur's Lake Palace isn't just any lakeside home—it's a luxurious abode that seems to effortlessly float on the calm waters of Lake Pichola.

Built in the 18th century, this former royal palace is now a hotel that promises an opulent stay.

Key Facts:

• Location: Lake Pichola, Udaipur, India
• Original Function: Royal Palace
• Current Use: Luxury Hotel
• Size: 4 acres

You'll find the palace on the island of Jag Niwas, where its white marble craftsmanship stands out against the tranquil blue of the lake and the sky.

Access is by boat, adding to the charm and exclusivity of your arrival.

Here's what awaits you in this grand establishment:

• Regal Elegance: Once the summer resort of the royal dynasty of Mewar, each room and hall in the palace tells a story of royal splendor.
• Architectural Marvel: The palace's exquisite architecture is a testament to the skilled artisans of the past.
• Breathtaking Views: The rooms offer stunning views of the surrounding lake, making every moment of your stay picturesque.

Have you ever longed to live like royalty, even if just for a night?

The Lake Palace offers just that—an experience where you can bask in the grandeur and elegance that once was the privilege of kings and queens.

However, one doesn't simply visit the Lake Palace; you embark on a journey back in time to experience a slice of India's majestic past.

So, are you ready to set sail for a regal retreat?

The Exbury Egg, England

Have you ever dreamed of a home that floats with the tides?

The Exbury Egg is not your usual lakeside retreat - it's a remarkable work of art and ingenuity, nestled on England’s Beaulieu River.

At a Glance:

• Size: 6 meters long, 3.6 meters wide
• Location: Beaulieu River, Hampshire, UK
• Artist/Resident: Stephen Turner
• Architectural Firm: PAD Studio Ltd
• Builder: Local craftsman Paul Baker

This eggstraordinary home, conceived by artist Stephen Turner, takes living off-grid to a new level.

Made mostly from local timber, it's as sustainable as it is eye-catching.

Turner, along with PAD Studio Ltd and boat builder Paul Baker, envisioned a space that embraces the eco-friendly ethos and merges seamlessly with the local habitat.

Why an egg?

Simply put, it's inspired by nature - think nesting seabirds along the shore, which are a stone's throw away from your own egg-centric abode.

Specs for Techs:

• Construction: Locally sourced timber
• Energy: Off-grid capabilities

Inside the Egg, the space is tailored for both work and living.

It’s a compact setup, but with everything you might need in a pinch.

Here's what you'd find inside this floating marvel:

• Workspace: Tailored for creativity and solitude
• Living Space: Cozy and functional

Local Impact: Turner's creation is a gentle nod to the environment, causing minimal disruption to the local wildlife.

It's designed to be a peaceful coexistence rather than an imposition.

So, could you see yourself in this shellter, bobbing along with the rhythms of the river?

It's a uniquely British take on sustainable living - cozy, quirky, and completely carbon-conscious.

Lake Rotsee Refuge, Switzerland

Imagine stumbling upon a cube-shaped marvel in the woods—this is Lake Rotsee Refuge.

Tucked away in Ebikon, Switzerland, don't you think it’s like finding a secret treasure on the shores of Lake Rotsee?

Created by AFGH Architects in 2012, it speaks the language of minimalism, making use of few materials yet resonating a strong presence.

Curious about how it blends in?

The refuge mirrors the tranquility of the lake while harmonizing with the surrounding forest.

It seems as if the architects asked the trees for advice and crafted a house that whispers back to nature.

Key Features:

• Outlook: Offers panoramic views of Lake Rotsee, perfect for nature lovers.
• Design: Minimal material usage, emphasizing simplicity and clean lines.
• Integration: Nestled in the lush environment, resembling a bird’s nest floating above calm waters.
• Function: Serves as a strategic vantage point for events like the annual rowing competitions.

Ebikon's gem is surely a testament to modernist architecture cradled in nature.

Fancy having your morning coffee with birds chirping and the sun’s reflection on the lake beckoning through the glass facades?

The architects thought you might!

Fun Fact: Did you know this site was featured on ArchDaily on August 4th, 2013?

It’s like the A-list celebrity of architecture blogs knew you’d want to sneak a peek.

So, when you’re thinking of unusual lakeside homes, let your mind float to the mesmerizing Lake Rotsee Refuge.

Its contemporary form doesn’t shout for attention, yet it effortlessly turns heads.

Wouldn’t you agree it’s almost like it belongs in the world of serene Swiss postcards?

Casa en el Agua, Colombia

Ever envisioned a home where you can dive into the ocean right from your bedroom's doorstep?

Nestled in Colombia's San Bernardo Islands, Casa en el Agua offers just that!

This unique eco-hostel is perched above the Caribbean Sea on a firm concrete foundation, supported by sturdy wooden stilts, seamlessly blending with the turquoise waters below.

Quick Facts:

• Location: San Bernardo Islands, Colombia
• Access: 2-hour boat ride from Cartagena
• Accommodations: Private rooms and dorms
• Price Range: 180,000 - 380,000 Colombian Pesos (approx. $62 - $130 USD)

Why Casa en el Agua?

• It's eco-friendly!
• Marvel at the surrounding white sand beaches.
• Embrace the vibrant local culture with the friendly crew.

This one-of-a-kind abode offers a range of accommodations to suit your preferences, from intimate private rooms to the more communal dorms for the sociable at heart.

Privacy doesn't come at the expense of a communal spirit though—with shared spaces, you're sure to make a few friends!

Not only is this hostel a marvel for its water-bound foundations, but the commitment to environmental mindfulness here is also noteworthy.

You're in the heart of Mother Nature, after all!

So, what's the cost for such a unique stay?

Prices for the rooms vary, with options accommodating different group sizes:

• Alegria Double Room: Approx. 200,000 COP per night.

Before embarking on this aquatic adventure, a friendly reminder to secure travel insurance, ensuring peace of mind as you float your worries away!

And remember, the only way in or out is by boat.

Ready to jump in?

The Floating House, Lake Huron, Ontario, Canada

Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of water lapping against the walls of your home.

No need for a fantasy, because The Floating House on Lake Huron in Ontario, Canada, makes this a reality.

Design Craftsmanship:

• Architects: MOS Architects
• Completion Year: 2005
• Location: Island on Lake Huron

Have you ever thought about living in a house that floats?

Well, it's not just a house on water; it adapts to the ever-changing lake conditions.

This architectural wonder is built on a system of steel pontoons, allowing it to rise and fall with Lake Huron's variable water levels.

Why is this home special?

It's the clever blend of local house design with innovative construction that guards against those harsh Lake Huron winters.

Quick Facts:

• Vernacular Style: This home pays homage to traditional designs while seamlessly incorporating modern elements.
• Adaptability: Designed to cope with the lake's fluctuating conditions.
• Sustainability: Material choices and building techniques consider the environment.

The home is more than just its functional prowess; it stands as a testament to combining form with purpose.

Every aspect, from the picturesque setting to the house’s ability to coexist with nature, tells a story of innovation and adaptation.

This isn't just a house; it's a living, breathing element of Lake Huron's landscape.

Could you see yourself there, sipping your morning coffee as swans glide by?

Remember, in the world of unusual lakeside homes, The Floating House truly makes a splash!

The Boat House at Millstätter See, Austria

Have you ever imagined waking up to the gentle lapping of water right under your bedroom?

Well, at Millstätter See in Austria, the Boat House turns that dream into a reality.

This isn't just any lakeside home—it's a stunning fusion of functionality and aesthetic, meticulously designed by MHM architects.

Here's a glimpse of what you'll find:

• Location: Nestled on the Seeboden shore of Millstätter Lake in Carinthia, Austria, location is a prime feature. How does being sandwiched between water and a steep slope sound for dramatic?
• Design: The boathouse's design is a conversation starter. Its modern, clean lines seamlessly intersect with the natural rippling of the lake and the rugged terrain.
• Year Built: The building was completed in 2012, so you know you're getting contemporary comforts with a timeless view.

Unique Features:

• Boat Dock: Your boat gets a home too! The structure includes a convenient dock tucked neatly underneath your living space. Imagine stepping out and hopping into your boat for an evening sail.
• Panoramic Sauna: What's better than a sauna? A panoramic sauna with breathtaking vistas of Millstätter Lake, that's what!

Your experience here is all about connection—connecting with nature, the water, the sky, and the comfort of a home that embraces its surroundings.

So, pack your bags (and maybe your boat) and get ready for a lakeside stay that's anything but ordinary.

Lake Wakatipu House, New Zealand

Have you ever imagined waking up to the soothing sounds of a lake, with a panorama of mountains right outside your window?

Lake Wakatipu House in New Zealand turns this dream into reality.

This isn't just any home; it's a masterpiece designed to embrace its environment.

• Location: Queenstown, New Zealand
• Known for: Breathtaking lake and mountain views

Design & Features:

• Roof shape mimics surrounding peaks
• Glass walls for unobstructed views
• Proximity to Queenstown

Why it’s special:

• Panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu
• Close engagement with nature and tranquility
• Access to adventure and leisure activities

Picture this: Your home, with its innovative roof, is not just a shelter but a statement that complements the formidable mountains of Queenstown.

The use of glass walls allows natural light to spill in, connecting you with the outdoors in a seamless manner.

Every morning, you can witness the Remarkables, Cecil Peak, and Walter Peak bathed in sunlight, while the evening brings a serene twilight that dances over the lake's surface.

Are you intrigued by the idea of lakeside living where adventure meets tranquility?

At Lake Wakatipu House, you are always just ten minutes from Queenstown, known for its lively persona and outdoor activities ranging from skiing to bungee jumping.

So, if you're looking for a retreat that offers both serenity and excitement, consider a home on the shores of Lake Wakatipu—your escape into New Zealand's natural elegance.

Villa F, Greece

Ever imagined waking up to panoramic views of a sparkling lake right from your bed?

At Villa F in Greece, you get exactly that and a whole lot more.

With an architectural design that seems to defy gravity, the villa presents a series of cantilevered blocks, giving the impression that the building is floating over Lake Ioannina.

What Can You Expect?

• Unique Architecture: This modern marvel showcases a striking appearance, with parts of the home extended out towards the lake.
• Stunning Views: Each cantilevered block is designed to offer breathtaking, unobstructed views of the lake.

Fancy Some Features?

• The villa is geared towards providing a luxurious living experience.
• Expect state-of-the-art facilities, woven effortlessly within its design.

Why Villa F?

Let's just say that it's not every day that you come across a home that combines cutting-edge design with heart-stopping natural beauty.

Now, tell me, have you packed your bags yet for a stay at Villa F?

With its bold structure and the serene backdrop of Lake Ioannina, it's a lakeside home that truly stands apart on the global stage.

The Spiral House, Lake Geneva, Switzerland

Have you ever imagined living in a house that spirals down into the earth?

Welcome to the Spiral House in Lake Geneva, Switzerland, an unusual lakeside home that perfectly blends innovative architecture with the tranquility of lake living.

Design:

• Unique spiral architecture
• Built into the ground for maximum privacy
• Expansive glass walls for lake views

Features:

• Direct lake access
• Uninterrupted views of Lake Geneva
• Eco-friendly design elements

Imagine descending into a cozy, subterranean abode where each level brings you closer to a serene lakeside experience.

The Spiral House is a feat of design that ensures you have both the seclusion you desire and the panoramic vistas you dream of.

Why the Spiral House?

• It's not just a home; it's a statement.
• Combines innovative design with environmental consciousness.
• Offers a living experience unlike any other.

Living Experience:

• Each room offers a different perspective on the lake.
• The intertwining of natural surroundings with living spaces.
• An exceptional example of integration between architecture and the environment.

How cool is it that you get the best of both worlds?

You're tucked away in your private sanctuary while still having the shimmering Lake Geneva at your doorstep.

It's an architectural marvel spiraling into harmony with nature.

Now, that's something worth writing home about!