Construction
Building a seaside villa: 6 things to plan ahead
Strong winds, salty air and harsh sun make seaside homes age much faster. Here is what to plan for right from the drawings.
Homes by the sea are beautiful, but they also age quickly without careful preparation. Here are six things we always discuss with homeowners before we start drawing.
1. Choose salt-resistant materials
Ordinary steel will rust within just a few years. Use 316 stainless steel, powder-coated aluminum and salt-resistant exterior paint. Hinges and screws should be rust-proof too.
2. Shade the big windows
Everyone wants large glass walls looking out to sea. Let the roof or balconies project out to block some of the sun, especially on the west side.
3. Mind the wind direction
Sea winds are very strong in winter. The front door should avoid facing straight into the wind, while windows should be placed to let a gentle breeze flow through the house.
4. Raise the floor level
Land near the sea can flood during king tides. Raising the floor at least 45 cm above the road is a safe choice.
5. Non-slip outdoor floors
Around the pool and patio, use honed or textured stone or outdoor-grade wood. Avoid glossy tiles, which get very slippery with wet sand and water.
6. A maintenance plan
Seaside homes should be checked once a year: paint, waterproofing, outdoor metalwork. Done early, the cost is small; left too long, it costs much more.
