Avoid These Costly Mistakes When Designing or Building Your DreamCoastal Home
"Avoid These Costly Mistakes When Designing or Building Your DreamCoastal Home"
Designing and building a custom home by the coast is a dream for many homeowners—a place to unwind, enjoy ocean views, and embrace a nice lifestyle. However, creating a home that blends aesthetics, functionality, and durability in a coastal environment requires careful planning and expert insight. At LCAD we’ve worked with numerous clients in coastal communities, and we know how to avoid the most common pitfalls that can turn your seaside haven into a maintenance headache.
Here we are going to share essential tips and things to avoid to ensure your dream coastal home is as enduring as it is beautiful.
1. Choosing the right Materials for Interiors
Salt air, humidity, and intense sunlight are just some of the environmental challenges that coastal homes face. Choosing the wrong interior materials can lead to premature fading, warping, or even mold growth. Many homeowners make the mistake of opting for standard wood floors, cabinetry, and fabrics that simply can’t handle the coastal elements.
Pro Tip: Opt for engineered wood flooring, porcelain tile, or luxury vinyl, which are more resistant to moisture. For furniture and upholstery, use fabrics designed to resist fading, mildew, and stains, ensuring your interiors remain vibrant and fresh.
2. Proper Space Planning for Views and Light
A common design error is not fully optimizing the layout to take advantage of your property's ocean views and natural light. Large windows and open floor plans can bring the outdoors in, but they also need to be thoughtfully planned to ensure privacy, comfort, and functionality.
Pro Tip: Work with your designer to align window placements, seating areas, and room layouts with the home's orientation. Consider floor-to-ceiling windows or sliding glass walls that open to outdoor spaces, and incorporate retractable shades or motorized blinds to control light and heat.
3. Overlooking the Need for Durable, Weather-Resistant Finishes
Coastal properties are exposed to harsh conditions, making durability a crucial consideration for every finish. Using standard paints, hardware, or fixtures can result in frequent maintenance, rusting, and fading. Homeowners often overlook the importance of selecting materials that can withstand the salty air and humidity.
Pro Tip: Choose marine-grade stainless steel or brass hardware for cabinetry and doors. Use high-quality, exterior-grade paints and stains to protect both interiors and exteriors. For walls, consider moisture-resistant drywall or plaster to prevent mold.
4. Failing to Incorporate Proper Ventilation and Moisture Control
The beauty of coastal living often comes with challenges like humidity and condensation, which can lead to mold and mildew if not properly managed. Many homeowners make the mistake of not investing in sufficient ventilation systems or moisture barriers, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Pro Tip: Install high-efficiency HVAC systems with integrated dehumidifiers, and use moisture-resistant paints and sealants in high-humidity areas. Properly vented range hoods and bathroom exhaust fans can also help control moisture levels.
5. Ignoring the Importance of Custom Storage Solutions
Living near the beach often means dealing with sandy feet, wet swimsuits, and an abundance of outdoor gear. However, many coastal homes lack practical storage solutions tailored to this lifestyle. Building custom storage spaces can help maintain order and cleanliness.
Pro Tip: Design built-in cabinetry in entryways and mudrooms for beach gear, towels, and wet clothing. Consider adding a dedicated laundry room with waterproof flooring for easy cleanup after a day at the beach.
6. Misjudging Outdoor Living Space Design
Outdoor spaces are integral to coastal living, but poorly planned patios, decks, and landscaping can suffer quickly from salt exposure and strong winds. Many homeowners underestimate the need for durable outdoor materials and functional layouts that maximize ocean breezes while providing shelter from the sun.
Pro Tip: Invest in high-quality outdoor furniture made from teak, powder-coated aluminum, or all-weather wicker. Use fade-resistant outdoor fabrics for cushions and consider installing retractable awnings or pergolas to provide shade and protection from the elements.
7. Overlooking Energy Efficiency in a Coastal Setting
Coastal homes can experience higher energy costs due to intense sunlight and heat. Neglecting energy-efficient design solutions can result in an uncomfortable home and escalating utility bills. Many homeowners miss out on incorporating sustainable features that not only save money but also increase the home's value.
Pro Tip: Utilize low-emissivity (low-E) glass windows to reduce UV rays and heat gain. Incorporate solar panels or energy-efficient appliances to cut down on long-term costs. Insulating walls and roofs properly can also help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the need for constant air conditioning.
8. Forgetting About Local Regulations and Permits
Building or renovating in a coastal area often comes with stricter building codes and environmental regulations. Homeowners sometimes overlook these requirements, leading to costly delays and fines. It's crucial to work with a team that understands the unique challenges of coastal construction.
Pro Tip: Partner with a designer and builder who have experience with local regulations and are familiar with the permitting process. This will save time and ensure that your home is built to withstand the local climate.
In Conclusion
Designing a custom coastal home is an exciting journey, but it requires a strategic approach to avoid costly mistakes and future headaches. By paying attention to material choices, space planning, durability, and sustainable design, you can create a timeless coastal retreat that will bring you joy for years to come.
At La Casa Azul Design, we specialize in luxury coastal home design and custom building. Our deep understanding of both interior design and interior architecture allows us to create homes that are not only stunning but also built to endure. Reach out to us today to learn how we can turn your coastal dream home into reality
