Florida living, reimagined through thoughtful design
Waterfront living in Florida is more than just a location. It’s a lifestyle. Whether your property overlooks the intercoastal, a peaceful canal, or open bayfront, the way your home is designed can completely transform how you live, entertain, and relax.
At LaBram Homes, we’re seeing a clear shift in how coastal homeowners are approaching their dream homes in 2025. It’s no longer just about luxury. It’s about lifestyle, longevity, and living in harmony with your surroundings. Here are some of the top waterfront home trends we’re seeing emerge and how they’re being brought to life in homes throughout the Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg areas.
Indoor Outdoor Flow That Feels Effortless
One of the most impactful trends continues to be seamless indoor outdoor integration. Full retractable glass walls, multi-panel sliders, and outdoor living rooms that rival the interior in design and comfort are in high demand. These aren’t just additions. They’re extensions of the home that create a year-round connection to the water, breeze, and sun.
Coastal Design, Reimagined
Today’s waterfront homeowners are looking for elevated coastal aesthetics. Instead of traditional beach-themed decor, we’re seeing more refined, natural palettes such as soft neutrals, driftwood tones, brushed metals, linen textures, and light stone finishes. The feel is organic, airy, and modern, yet warm. Clients are choosing designs that reflect the serenity of the water while still offering timeless sophistication.
Maximized Water Views and Light-Filled Layouts
Designing with intention means placing your living areas, kitchen, and primary suite to take full advantage of the views. Strategic window placements, corner glass, and thoughtful rooflines are all part of what we call viewshed planning. It ensures every key room captures light, reflection, and that ever-changing Florida horizon.
Smart Outdoor Living Spaces
Homeowners are investing in outdoor areas that serve multiple purposes including lounging, cooking, dining, and entertaining. Coastal backyards are evolving into full outdoor experiences with resort-style pools, built-in grills, shaded cabanas, and fire features. Custom docks with integrated lighting and lifts are also popular, along with outdoor showers and paddleboard storage for active lifestyles.
Built-In Resilience and Function
Waterfront living requires smart building choices. Materials that stand up to moisture, salt air, and sun are essential, not optional. From impact-rated windows to elevated foundations and flood-conscious landscaping, today’s designs prioritize both beauty and protection.
Smart Home Integration
Clients are also incorporating smart technology for lighting, irrigation, climate control, and security that can be controlled remotely, giving peace of mind no matter the season. Whether you’re away for the weekend or managing daily routines from your phone, these systems offer convenience, energy efficiency, and added protection, all seamlessly integrated into the overall design of the home.
Color and Material Choices That Reflect the Landscape
Interior palettes continue to be inspired by nature. Coastal homeowners are gravitating toward finishes that feel rooted in their environment including warm woods, limestone and travertine, unlacquered brass, and matte finishes. These natural elements bring a grounded feel to interiors while aging gracefully with the coastal climate.
Built for the Florida Coast, Backed by Decades of Experience
Since 1986, LaBram Homes has been building custom residences throughout St. Petersburg and the greater Tampa Bay area. Our deep understanding of Florida’s coastal climate, permitting landscape, and lifestyle preferences allows us to guide every client with confidence, creativity, and care.
While trends evolve, our commitment to quality, resilience, and intentional design has remained constant. We don’t just build houses. We create homes that reflect your vision, enhance your life, and make the most of every moment on the water.
If you’re considering building your dream waterfront home, we’d love to be part of the journey. With nearly four decades of local experience and a team dedicated to your success, LaBram Homes is where your coastal vision comes to life.
Let’s build something beautiful together.
