Best of est | Yacht and Houseboat Interiors

We’ve brought together five exceptional interiors from Copenhagen’s Harbour to local Australian landmark Lake Eildon, all of which are anchored in quality materials, functionality and exceptional craftsmanship.

Lake Eildon Houseboat by Pipkorn & Kilpatrick

Lake Eildon Houseboat is one of the most popular floating interior projects we’ve featured on est to date. It was also Melbourne-based interior studio Pipkorn & Kilpatrick’s first commission, who’ve since gone on to deliver countless residential projects featured on est.

Pipkorn & Kilpatrick were approached to redesign the interior of a three level, four bedroom, two bathroom and two galley kitchen houseboat for a family of three generations. The studio have carefully considered each detail, prioritising sustainable, natural materials with deliberately pared-back interiors designed to frame the passing scenery outside.

Bella Yacht by Norm Architects

Norm Architects‘ latest project is the luxurious interior of a 70-foot yacht called Bella. The Danish studio were enlisted to design the interior of the yacht manufactured by Michael Schmidt Yachtbau, which is based on a simple framework that follows the natural curves of the craft.

Norm Architects have engaged their signature style by prioritising tactile surfaces, natural materials and matt finishes, that include the applied wood veneer, Papier stone and blackened steel fixtures and fittings.

The Robert Bruce Yacht by Lucy Marczyk

The Robert Bruce yacht had already forged a global reputation before it landed with Melbourne interior designer Lucy Marczyk. Originally designed by pioneering yacht designer Tom Fexas and by the renowned Cheoy Lee Shipyard in China, Lucy Marczyk refurbished the saloon/lounge, galley and sky deck areas.

Drawing on the vessel’s original design and craftsmanship, Lucy tastefully combined traditional piano high-gloss timber joinery with gold detailing, mother of pearl inlays and timber-look high-quality vinyl. The interior designer then peppered the interiors with a furniture selection that unites retro Italian styling elements, with an emphasis on functionality. Standout objects include the Master’s Chair by Philippe Starck on the sky deck area and the Husk Chair by Patricia Urquiola within.

Mildura Houseboat by Fabrikate

Designed for the Murray River, this Mildura Houseboat by Adelaide-based studio Fabrikate is a leading example of compact life on the water. The interior studio have managed to fit a fully equipped kitchen with integrated fridge, pantry and custom reading nooks, a dining room, two bedrooms and a bathroom; all in a 45 sqm footprint. Fabrikate also incorporated both built-in and vertical storage to take advantage of any available space.

Fabrikate chose a colour palette that resembles the native Murray surrounds of eucalyptus greens, white, sand and tan. Well-thought out, simple and light-filled, we couldn’t think of a better place to relax riverside.

Copenhagen Harbour Houseboat by Laust Nørgaard

A 70 sqm floating home on the Copenhagen harbour seems a natural fit for Danish boatbuilder Laust Nørgaard. He designed the two-bedroom houseboat for his family who live an active lifestyle, prioritising large windows and openings for the ease of swimming in the lapping harbour. The exterior is clad in dark-stained wood, while the interior walls are covered in light plywood. Mirroring the level of craftsmanship within is the kitchen island with storage, cooktop and sink by Danish brand Vipp.