De Walvisch, UK
The interior of De Walvisch, a Dutch sailing clipper, now moored in Wapping, East London, is potently atmospheric. It boasts mahogany-toned wood walls and a plethora of striking objects with an old maritime provenance, all sourced by its occupants – artists Zatorski & Zatorski (a couple known as Thomas and Angel to their friends).
In 2000, the duo bought a narrowboat, which saw them develop a taste for living “slightly under the radar”. Their decision to buy De Walvisch was reinforced by their interest in Wapping. “History is around every corner in this part of town,” they say.
The couple restored the boat, kitting it out with reclaimed pieces, including a washbasin from a submarine. A porthole with a brass frame – rescued from SS Transylvania, the British passenger liner torpedoed and sunk by a German U-boat in 1917 – now graces the bow-windowed bedroom (formerly the captain’s cabin).
The boat is berthed at Hermitage Moorings, a co-operative the artists helped to set up, which is shared with 17 other boats. This environment inspires the artists, who are interested in the potential of ships to symbolise discovery, new life and adventure. They document their life aboard the boat, and use it to stage artworks and performances, and to host salons, where people from different disciplines are invited to discuss their ideas.
Making Waves: Floating Homes and Life on the Water by Portland Mitchell is published by Thames & Hudson.
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