Have you ever dreamed of dozing off as you sail along one of the UK's busiest water highways in an eclectic bright blue cottage replete with a lawn, wisteria over the door and an apple tree? For five days and nights, between the 18th and 23rd May, this dream will come to life in the shape of Nick and Steve Tidball's floating residence for Airbnb.
The house, who's formal address is No.1, The Thames, offers two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a living space. "Think Primrose Hill meets Pixar with all the charms of suburbia," the twin architecture graduates from London's Bartlett School of Architecture explain. The Tidballs, who now work as creative directors in advertising, say that "it was crucial to us that this was a real house, not just a stage set. One that Airbnb guests would feel truly comfortable in."
For this reason they've provided much more than just bedrooms and a bathroom: "visitors will get to enjoy a hand-picked book collection, a dog kennel, and their very own private garden - the kind of things that make a house a home. We love the idea that this house will see more in five days than most other houses see in a hundred years."
We’ve truly put the “house” in houseboat. Prepare to be wined, dined, pampered and preened in a space so whimsical you might think you’re in a dream!
After meandering up and down The Thames for a week, passing landmarks, weeping willows and London’s hidden gems, the Floating House will make its final stop at Putney Pier before drifting off beyond the horizon. On the 22nd May, you and up to three of your friends will have the unique opportunity to spend the night aboard.
While life in London flashes by, life on the river takes its time. On the Floating House you can just sit back, relax and be pampered while enjoying all the comforts of home. Upon arriving, you’ll be greeted by one of our lovely Airbnb hosts, who will take you on a personal tour of her favourite London neighbourhood. When you return to the Floating House, some of London’s best massage therapists, courtesy of PRIV, will treat you to a relaxing massage before dinner is served.
Come with an appetite! Your dinner host for the night will be none other than Robert Ortiz, Michelin-starred head chef of Lima and Lima Floral. Savour the flavours of Peru while taking in the evening’s river views. Once you’ve had your fill, make yourself at home before drifting into one of the best sleeps you’ve ever had.
If you'd like to stay on this "magical" anachronism on the river then you should tell Airbnb in a few sentences where you would go if a Floating House could take you absolutely anywhere, as well as why. You should enter by the end of the 20th May 2015 (GMT).
According to the terms and conditions acts of piracy on the Thames will not be tolerated.
