Building a vacation home is exciting when you think about how it can provide a personal retreat and a place to make lasting memories with family and friends. At LaBram Homes, we specialize in creating luxury custom homes that reflect your unique tastes and desires. For some of our customers, their new property is their holiday retreat. Many would also like it to become their forever home once they retire or decide to sell their primary house and relocate.
If you’re thinking about building your own vacation destination home, here’s a guide for creating a home you’ll love for many years.
1. Define Your Vision
The first step in building a vacation home is to define your vision. Consider the purpose of the home, how often you will use it, and who will be using it. Do you envision a cozy cabin in the woods, a beachfront bungalow, or a modern villa? Think about the style, size, and features that will make your vacation home a perfect retreat.
2. Choose the Right Location
Location is key when building a vacation home. Consider proximity to attractions, climate, accessibility, and the type of environment you desire. Whether it’s a serene lake, a bustling beach town, or a secluded mountain area, the right location will enhance your vacation experience.
3. Budget Appropriately
Establishing and managing costs is crucial. Today, your new vacation home will be your getaway. Tomorrow, it will be where you live, play, and relax every day.
The average budget for these homes runs in the neighborhood of $1 – $5 million. This price tag will be worth it for many homeowners who see the value that they are getting: all the comforts you could want, a home away from home today, and a place to hang your hat forever. Your budget should include all potential costs such as land acquisition, construction, permits, and interior furnishings. Keep in mind that building in certain locations may have additional expenses due to local regulations or accessibility.
4. Hire a Reputable Builder
Selecting the right builder is essential for bringing your vision to life. Look for builders with experience in vacation homes and a portfolio that reflects their expertise. At LaBram Homes, we pride ourselves on our craftsmanship and attention to detail, ensuring your home is built to the highest standards.
5. Design and Personalize Your Dream Home
Work with an architect or builder who specializes in design-builds to create a blueprint that meets your needs and desires. This collaboration is essential to ensure that your vacation home not only looks stunning but also functions seamlessly to accommodate your lifestyle. Here are several key considerations to keep in mind during the design phase:
Open Floor Plans
Open floor plans are ideal for vacation homes, as they foster a sense of connection and spaciousness. These layouts eliminate barriers between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, creating a large, inviting space where family and friends can gather. The flow between indoor and outdoor spaces is also enhanced, making it easier to entertain guests and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.
Incorporating Enhancing Features
To truly elevate your vacation home, consider incorporating features that enhance comfort and relaxation. A hot tub on the deck is perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. A cozy fireplace can create a warm, inviting atmosphere during cooler months. Large windows with scenic views not only flood the interior with natural light but also bring the beauty of the outdoors inside. Additionally, installing high-end appliances and modern amenities will ensure that your vacation home is as functional as it is luxurious.
Build Up
If your property is limited in space, building up rather than out can maximize your home’s footprint. Multi-story designs can provide stunning views and more living space without compromising on outdoor areas. Upper levels can house bedrooms and private spaces, while the lower levels can be dedicated to communal living and entertainment.
Vertically expansive homes have the benefit of providing:
- A great view of your property and the scenic surroundings, particularly if you have a waterfront home or if you build near the coast. Balconies overlooking the water are a perfect way to enjoy the Florida sunsets.
- Lots of space. Bedrooms and guest rooms are essential when friends and relatives visit your retreat. You’ll also have room to host when the kids and grandkids visit during spring break or the holidays.
Make Room for Entertainment Spaces
Entertainment spaces are a must-have in a vacation home. Designate areas for activities such as a game room, home theater, or a dedicated space for hobbies. Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and alfresco dining areas can turn your home into an entertainment hub where you can host gatherings and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Bring the Outdoors In (and the Indoors Out)
Blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living is a hallmark of luxury vacation homes. Consider features like retractable glass walls, screened-in porches, and expansive decks to seamlessly integrate the indoors with the outdoors. Indoor spaces that open up to the outside allow you to enjoy fresh air and scenic views from the comfort of your home. Similarly, outdoor spaces designed with the comforts of indoor living—such as plush seating, weather-resistant furniture, and outdoor heaters—can be used year-round.
You can include features like:
- An outdoor kitchen and dining area. Imagine sitting outside, looking out over the water and having great conversation with family and friends over a nice home cooked dinner.
- Large, covered decks. Protect yourself from the sun while enjoying its warmth and the Florida breezes in a luxurious, spacious setting that is ideal for entertaining.
By focusing on these aspects during the design phase, you can ensure that your vacation home is not only a beautiful retreat but also a functional and enjoyable space that meets all your needs and desires.
Talk to LaBram About Your Custom Vacation Home
Building a vacation home is a rewarding experience that can provide a haven for relaxation and enjoyment. By following these steps and partnering with LaBram Homes, you can create a luxurious retreat that will be cherished for years to come. Our team of experienced home designers will work with you every step of the way to bring your vision to life, even if you’re looking to build a vacation home while you’re out-of-state.
Contact us today to start your journey toward building the perfect vacation home.
