Still Afloat: A Contemporary History of Seattle’s Floating Homes

In the heart of the city of Seattle, a community of nearly 500 houses floats along the shores of Lake Union and Portage Bay. The complex and fascinating history of the floating homes community parallels the history of the city of Seattle itself, beginning from the logging industry, growing into a more permanent urban settlement, and evolving over the years into a cleaner and wealthier version of its former self.

Still Afloat: A Contemporary History of Seattle’s Floating Homes shares a contemporary perspective on this historic community that is indeed another one of Seattle’s diverse neighborhoods. Residents of the community share a love of life on the water and a strong bond with their neighbors. Despite a long history of land use battles, evictions, and other challenges to their existence, the floating homes are still afloat on Lake Union and Portage Bay today. Many changes have come to the floating homes in recent years; some have added stability and value to the homes, while others threaten the unique lifestyle and fundamental vitality of the community.

Images from history are brought to life with contemporary stories of life in the community, told both by residents who have lived on floating homes for 50 years and by others who are reflecting on their first or two. Visitors will be able to experience the sights and sounds of life in the floating homes community, and hear stories from residents who have seen the community change over the years. Exhibit displays include photographs, video interviews, underwater film, and a scale model of a floating home—showcasing the technology that enables the homes to float.

Still Afloat: A Contemporary History of Seattle’s Floating Homes celebrates the strength of community and individual creativity that has made Seattle the vibrant city it is today. The exhibit has something for everyone, whether a first time visitor to Seattle, a curious local, or a long-time floating home resident.

This exhibit has closed.