By BUILDER Magazine Staff. Guest Architect:
Bill Devereax
Devereaux & Associates
McLean, Va.
703-893-0102
Q. I have a very successful plan that works well in my suburban subdivisions, but how can I adapt it for a resort community?
A: The second-home market is hot, as baby boomers are investing in real estate and planning for retirement. But buyers, of any age, don’t want to retreat to a home that’s just like their primary residence. When it comes to designing resort homes, a fun, less conservative approach is greatly appreciated. Vacation homes need more dramatic “wow” spaces, wide-open living areas, and higher bedroom and bathroom counts to accommodate family and friends.
A lantern in the cupola adds charm and light to the interior.
Metal roofing makes it feel like a resort.
Use siding, stucco, shingles, or other “woodsy” or “beachy” materials.
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Include plenty of glass, and even more when there’s a view.
The home is raised (with the garage tucked underneath) to survive hurricane flooding or just to take advantage of the views.
Lots of porch space is always a good idea.
Screening hides piers and storage. First Floor
High windows create a dramatic room and views.
Include a state-of-the-art media center.
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Add a large deck with an optional screened porch.
First-floor master bedroom is a priority for retirees and pre-retirement baby boomers.
Kitchen is open to all the action in the great room.
Good visual and audio separation is a must for the master bedroom.
Install interesting entry stairs.
Accent stairs with an opening to the lower level.
Multiple uses for the same room allow owners to vary it according to specific needs.
A dramatic first impression. Second Floor
Must have WOW!!!
Secondary sleeping room or kids’ play/ television space is a definite bonus to buyers.
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A shared bath gives the sense of additional suites, like in a resort hotel.
Include a suite bedroom. Send queries and clearly readable plans (on 8.5 x 11 paper) to: Carolyn Weber, First Draft, One Thomas Circle, N.W. Suite 600, Washington, DC 20005