‘Artist’s Dream’ is a houseboat for all seasons

This shingled, two-story houseboat just a few blocks up from Gas Works Park in Wallingford, also known as “Moveable Feast,” has a little something for all seasons, with cozy—not cramped—areas to cuddle up inside and outdoor options for whatever nature throws at you.

The previous owner was an artist, and the decor offers a pretty backdrop to the water views, starting with a mermaid mosaic at the front door.

Those indoor areas are uniquely houselike. A full bathroom includes a standard-sized bathtub with a vintage-aesthetic detachable faucet. The kitchen is bigger than those in some apartments, with a wraparound granite countertop and a large, full range.

Up a ladder on the second floor, a small sitting area is surrounded by wood-slat ceilings and exposed-grain walls and built-ins, and brings in natural light from French doors to the balcony. The bedroom fits a queen bed.

The views only get better in the outdoor spaces. A covered deck sheltered from the elements takes in the air and views from the lake, or for a little more sun exposure, climb another ladder to the top of the boat. The current owner has left the roof deck without embellishment, which works fine for some impromptu sunbathing.

The size is a little more boat than house—its footprint is just 34 by 15 feet—but it makes do. Pockets of storage are hidden everywhere. Hinges top a small staircase in the kitchen and living area, which opens to an expansive storage area just inside the hull. A side table in the lounge space upstairs doubles as a trunk, as does a bench on the back deck. Built-in cabinets cover the walls, which is both decorative and functional.

All that space on a well-maintained houseboat designed for everyday livability—plus a durable aluminum hull—comes out to $475,000, plus $710 slip moorage.

• An Artist’s Floating Dream [Special Agents Realty]