Small Space Big Fun
by Kathy Rollow
When Frank Fila, and his wife Kathy Rollow, first purchased their 1972 floating cottage they knew it was small, but thought it was perfect.
With pristine views of Norris Lake, the cottage quickly became a favorite weekend destination for family and friends.
Over the next four years, the cottage underwent major renovations and transformed into a two story summer retreat that sleeps eight in a very small space. “Frank just can’t sit still. He is restless, especially in the winter, and the cottage gave him the perfect outlet for his creativity” said Kathy. With only one original door and small wall remaining, Frank planned and completed every detail of this remodel. “We spent many nights talking, planning, and drawing different floor plans on scrap pieces of paper trying to make the most of every inch of space. It definitely entertained us during the off season.” The original one story, flat top cottage was made out of redwood cut from the original builder’s property. “We were lucky enough that we knew the family of the builder. They have been a wonderful source of nostalgia and have been very excited to see the transformation.”
Before
With an eclectic assortment of custom made furnishing, antique treasures, and donations from guest, this cottage makes anyone feel at home. The 20 foot by 20 foot sun deck is the perfect place for catching some rays. The second story front window is actually a hidden door and allows access to the upper deck. During the day this upper deck is utilized as the preferred spot for jumping into the water but it is also a favorite destination for viewing the evening sunsets. The front porch is a wonderful source of shade but also host the best conversations while night fishing. “We have already made so many wonderful memories here. I can’t wait to see how this place continues to shape our lives and friendships.”
Entry View
Living Area
Kitchen
Master Bedroom
Bathroom
31 Responses to “Small Space Big Fun”
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Beautiful!
This looks like great fun… I hope you have years of enjoyment with it.
i would be happy with this and fish off the porch and go swiming any time love this have fun Emma
It’s 700 sq. ft. with the upstairs addition. 400 sq. ft. on the main floor.
This is so perfect for a relaxing weekend away, you spend your time enjoying your surroundings not doing chores around a large home like keeping up with the cleaning! *jealous*
The flooring, cabinets, and layout are great. And that chest! What’s the sq foot on this one?
I love it! I would love to housesit! It screams peace
I am in an RV community which has won a fight to put larger, 400 sq. ft. units (without the deck).
This would be perfect for the community.
Let’s talk.
Ric U.
How many square feet is the house?
I like the concept and the exterior and especially the dock. The interior though, just doesn’t suit a floating cottage for my taste; I would keep it simple and more rustic.
LOVE IT!!!
Oh so much FUN… and more to come!
Beautiful cottage enjoy , I know your family will enjoy each and ever summer make many memories!
Where do you find waterways that allow this type of structure if you do not own the shoreline? Constant battle in MN. DNR/CofEng/other shoreline owners w/compt’s about restricted views…unless you have a private lake (all property owned and no public access) this type of wonderful living arrangement is beyond even wishing for in our part of the country. Suggestions? Thanks, beautiful work. Even my non-swimming wife thought this would be an acceptable tiny home for more than a weekend:) gus
We are tied to a marina buoy line. We are really bless that there’s not a lot of development around us. behind us is a Girl Scout camp. There are also state parks and wildlife areas around us. We would suggest you move to Tennesee
THIS IS THE BEST FOR A GREAT TIME! IT IS ALL MADE TO WITH STAND WET FEET, BATHING SUITS ETC. WE ALWAYS HAVE A GREAT TIME. PEOPLE STOPPING BY TO JOIN IN ON THE FUN. WHEN YOU GO ITS ALWAYS COMFY WITH PLENTY OF FOOD, DRINK, KIDS, FAMLIES & BEST OF ALL FUN! CAN’T WAIT TO GO AGAIN!!!
WOW what a difference looks great..
Good job Frankie and Kathy love it
great house on water!!
)
What about your energy souce for lighting,etc.?Solar,with batteries?
Battery and generator now. We are wired and ready for solar just need to save some more money.
So what does it float on? What do you do in the winter (I googled and there is a Norris Lake in TN as well as in MB so not sure if this is an issue).
Obviously there is power. Where does that come from?
and you have toilets and sinks – where does the waste water go?
There are floats under the decking. In the winter we visit but don’t stay a lot. We are in Tennessee. We have batteries and a generator. We have everything anynhouse has. There is a holding tank for waste water that is pumped as needed.
Adorable! The only downside – the 2008 fits into its surrounding nicely. The updated version sticks out – instead of fitting into the scenery and surrounding buildings, it becomes the focal point, a little overwhelming. But who wouldn’t want to live there?!
I’m wonder like Gus Gregerson above where can I do this,I live in MI and there’s no place I can do it here.
Also, does the lake frssze over? What do you do for winter?
Very Coooool, we like!
There are some great questions here that I’d love to have an answer for. I was also wondering 1) What happens if you don’t own shoreline property, 2) How do you get electricity, and 3) where does the waste go? I suppose you have a motor running constantly for power, like a houseboat, and maybe a “honey pot” to empty (?) That still leaves the ownership question on shore. Easement?
Absolutely adorable. I could live there.
Frank and Kathy you guys have done a great job! Such a cute boat.
love it!
Beautiful! Looks so nice and relaxing.
Makes me wanta start building my own get-a-way !
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