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Is a beach house on your dream house list? Beachfront living has always been a dream for many homeowners. With the increasing demand for coastal homes, it is no surprise that architects and interior designers are focusing on coastal home aesthetics.
But whether you’re planning to make it your full-time residence, vacation getaway, or investment property, there are a few things you need to consider to get the most out of your coastal living experience.
First, it’s important to keep up with the latest trends in coastal home design. Beach houses aren’t just about sun, sand and surf. They have evolved into luxurious living spaces that offer the perfect blend of comfort and style that can serve as valuable financial investments.
According to home builders, popular coastal home features focus on maximizing ocean views, welcoming natural light and enjoying a comfortable indoor-outdoor lifestyle.
Must have coastal home features
We’ve compiled a list of popular home features that not only maximize the value of your home but also ensure you follow popular modern trends for coastal living.
- Elevated structures: Designed for flood safety, coastal homes often have ground-level parking or storage.
- Large windows and glass doors: Homeowners prefer large, floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors to maximize views and natural light.
- Well-designed outdoor living spaces: Large decks, balconies and covered porches designed for relaxing and entertaining.
- Weather-resistant material: Stone, stucco, fiber cement siding and high quality materials to withstand humid, salty environments.
- Outdoor shower and storage: A practical necessity for washing sand, washing beach gear and cleaning surfboards.
With this in mind, browse our collection of coastal house plans. They are designed to make the most of their beachfront location and maximize stunning ocean views and beautiful sunsets.
1. 3-Story Coastal Contemporary House Plan
This modern coastal design is perfect for a narrow beach lot and offers 2,096 square feet of living space on 3 levels. On the ground level, you’ll find a garage, a large family room, bathroom and access to a covered patio.
As you move up to the second level, discover an open great room with kitchen and dining areas, walk-in pantry and private home office. On the third level, two bedrooms have Jack-and-Jill baths, while the primary suite includes a private bath, walk-in closet and its own sun deck.
2. Modern 1-bedroom coastal home
The exterior of this modern coastal home has a wall of windows, ensuring that you have perfect ocean views in every direction. With just one bedroom and 944 square feet of total living space, outdoor spaces are a primary focus. The home layout offers multiple cascading decks that take you directly to the beach. At ground level, there is space for a carport, storage and an optional garage.
3. Coastal house plan with dog trot and guest suite
If you are looking for a luxury beach or lakeside residence, this plan is for you. The home layout with dog trot and guest suite gives you 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths and 4,271 square feet of total living space.
Most importantly, the large windows in this coastal cottage ensure that every room is filled with natural light and offers spectacular views. Also, the home features a thoughtfully designed dog trot-covered, open-air passageway that connects the main house to the guest suite.
To the left, the guest suite offers access to the kitchen, sitting area and deck. It can serve as a private space for friends and family, so that they can have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Overall, with a garage, plenty of deck space and 4 bedrooms, this coastal home offers luxurious living with plenty of space for you, your family and guests.
4. Modern 3-bedroom vacation coastal home
This modern 3-bedroom vacation home offers 1,766 square feet of space and 3 bedrooms on two levels. With plenty of outdoor spaces, the coastal home ensures a comfortable indoor-outdoor lifestyle while embracing the natural light and views.
Picture this: large windows and glass doors that flood your space with sunlight and breathtaking views of the surroundings. Imagine spending your mornings on a spacious deck sipping coffee, soaking in the breeze.
5. Coastal 1-bedroom apartment over garage
This small yet inviting waterfront home features a 2-car garage, 1 bedroom, 1 bath and 725 square feet of living space. Its exterior features a modern coastal design with clean lines and warm wood accents. As you ascend the exterior staircase, you discover the private living space on the second floor, designed with an open-concept layout in mind.
The main living space gracefully combines a comfortable living room with 8-foot vaulted ceilings, a functional kitchen and a natural light-filled dining area. Moreover, the upstairs master suite serves as a tranquil haven with incredible views, featuring a private bedroom and full bathroom. Plus, the 85 square foot deck and porch area provide an ideal spot for morning coffee, enjoying the coastal breeze or watching the sunset.
6. Modern 3-Bedroom Coastal House Plan (2,705 SqFt)
If you’re looking for a bright, open-concept design perfect for waterfront living, take a closer look at this 2,705 square foot home plan, which offers 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms and dual decks. Step inside from the covered porch into an open great room, combining living, dining and kitchen areas.
Most importantly, you have a famous mudroom or ‘sand room’, perfect for cleaning up after a day at the beach. A gourmet kitchen anchors the main floor with a large island and a butler’s walk-in pantry. They are also on the list of most requested features for modern coastal homes.
Walk upstairs to find quiet accommodations for sleep and relaxation for every member of the family. Finally, enjoy the coastal breeze from the multiple outdoor living areas. This coastal home features a welcoming covered front porch, a large screened porch in the back, and an additional covered deck and open deck on the second level.
7. Tuscan Coastal House Plan with 2-Car Drive-Under Garage
If you’re a fan of Tuscan-style design, check out this stunning 3-level coastal home. The ground floor has a 2-car garage, mechanical room and storage with access to the lower patio. It ensures the living area is raised above any potential storm-related water so you can enjoy coastal living in comfort.
On the second level, there is an open great room with three sets of French doors opening to a home-wide lanai. These features not only maximize ocean views but also create a relaxing indoor-outdoor lifestyle while embracing natural light. All three bedrooms are upstairs, while a small Juliet-style balcony allows you to enjoy the view.
8. Coastal home with waterfront views from every room
High off the ground, this ultimate coastal home allows you to enjoy the views from every room. Plus, you have an enclosed storage area and space for beach gear, bikes, etc. on the ground level. Moreover, you will find a grand staircase on the ground level leading up to the lofty main level. Two separate staircases lead up to the covered lanai at the rear of the home.
On the main living level, the great room and kitchen open to a covered lanai with three sliding glass doors, ensuring you have a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. The great room includes a fireplace flanked by built-in bookshelves, while the kitchen has an island and pantry. Finally, two identical bedrooms share a bath and have access to a dedicated laundry space.
See more popular modern house designs and coastal decor ideas
In conclusion
In summary, building a coastal home offers endless options for homeowners, whether it is your full-time residence, vacation getaway, or financial investment property. By keeping up with the latest trends, incorporating essential features and carefully considering the layout of your home, you can create a unique and comfortable living space that makes you feel like you’re on a permanent vacation.
After all, life is always better at the beach!
