Start With the Home Your Family Needs
Every family’s needs are unique, so take some time to really think about what’s not working for you in your current home before starting your Surfside, FL home remodeling project. It’s easy to get started by pulling ideas from magazines and online sources, but that should come after determining what changes you actually need in your home. Consider what you don’t like or what isn’t working in each room, as well as what features you want. Some common Surfside, FL home remodeling goals include:
- Open, functional kitchen
- Low-maintenance bathroom with durable finishes
- Better organization and storage in closets, pantries, laundry rooms, etc.
- Replacing worn or damaged finishes and/or flooring
- More cohesive flow between living spaces
- Updated home for seasonal living and/or to prepare home for sale
Which Materials Hold Up Along the Coast?
The constant humidity (more info), strong sun, storms and other elements present along the Surfside, FL coast can be tough on certain building materials. For example, metal may rust or corrode in salty air, humidity can wreak havoc on floors and cabinetry, and strong sun can cause premature fading of certain materials.
This doesn’t mean you need to choose stark, industrial-looking materials for your Surfside, FL home remodel – just that you should look for ways to combine your aesthetic vision with practicality and durability. The approach to remodeling Surfside homes should balance coastal durability and design through easy-to-clean, moisture-resistant options for kitchens and bathrooms and careful attention to cabinet construction, ventilation, grout, hardware and finishes. Choose flooring that will stand up to the realities of your family’s lifestyle – whether that means wet feet, sandy shoes, pets or frequent guests.
Layout, Scope, and Lasting Design Choices
Plan Your Layout Changes Carefully
You may be tempted to knock down walls and open up the layout of your Surfside, FL home. Just be sure to work with your Surfside, FL remodeling contractor to map out which walls are load-bearing and/or house electrical, HVAC or plumbing before tearing anything down. And keep in mind that an open-concept layout isn’t necessarily the right solution for every family – separate spaces can offer welcome respite from noise and chaos.
When planning out the layout of your Surfside, FL home remodel, consider:
- Traffic flow – aim for a minimum of 3 feet in main pathways
- Storage needs – where will you put beach gear, groceries, etc.?
- Functionality – will doors and drawers be able to open fully without obstructing walkways?
- Privacy – do you want to hear (or be heard in) every room of your home?
- Lighting – how will natural light enter the room?
- Power – where will you need outlets for electronics, appliances, etc.?
Decide on Your Remodeling Project Scope Upfront
Once your Surfside, FL remodeling contractor tears into your home, you may find issues you weren’t aware of previously – uneven floors, water damage, faulty wiring, old plumbing connections, etc. That’s why it’s so important to sit down with your contractor and map out exactly what you want to get done before the remodel begins. Decide on which rooms will be remodeled, what elements will be updated/replaced and which elements will remain. And be sure to decide on as many materials and elements as possible upfront so your Surfside, FL remodeling contractor isn’t standing around waiting for you to decide on faucets and your project doesn’t drag on.
It’s also helpful to discuss how the remodeling process will impact your family and review the renovation checklist at https://www.angi.com/articles/home-renovation-checklist.htm. If you’re remodeling your kitchen, for example, you may need to rethink mealtime. If you’re remodeling your bathroom and your home only has one bathroom, discuss this with your Surfside, FL remodeling contractor so he/she can help you plan around it.
Resist Some Trendy Surfside Home Remodeling Ideas
Before incorporating a design element into your Surfside, FL home remodel, ask yourself whether it will truly work with your family’s lifestyle and your home’s existing architecture. Remember that the finishes, colors and styles you love in the showroom may not translate well to your home or may feel overwhelming when used excessively. Custom elements may be gorgeous, but do they justify the price tag – especially if they’re impractical or difficult to maintain?
When it comes to remodeling your Surfside, FL home, err on the side of practicality, investing in quality lighting, durable finishes, smart layouts and plenty of storage. Incorporate design elements that reflect your family’s personality – just be sure not to skimp on practicality for the sake of trends.
Next Steps for Your Surfside Home Remodel
So how do you get started planning your Surfside, FL home remodel? Start with your family’s needs and pain points, assess the current condition of your home, and determine where your budget will best be spent. Then, sit down with your Surfside, FL remodeling contractor and discuss your vision for the space. Finally, jot down any decisions that still need to be made (finishes, fixtures, layout changes, etc.) so nothing falls through the cracks and you’re ready to get started!
