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By Rebecca Welch

Anyone fortunate enough to own beach front property should consider building themselves a beach house for the enjoyent of their family and friends. Beach house floor plans should follow the slope of the lot towards the beach and provide a panoramic view of the ocean. A clever design will expolit lot orientation, topography, gravity, direct light and spectacular views.

One type of floor plan arrangement for a beach house is based on a tri-level design. The lowest level encompasses the garage and utilities, the top level is designated as the integrated guest house with the remaining main level denoting the master and secondary bedrooms. Living and dining areas are also featured on the main level of this beach house floor plan.

The layering of living levels and slope of the land allows for a stair system from which one can enter externally, with the guest unit being independent, or via the traditional internal type staggered system. The external stair system gives the opportunity to add either a secluded terrace or patio on any level. A private footbridge with adjoining patio into the master suite would also be a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the main living area.

In keeping with the maritime feel of the beach house floor plan, interior walls of the main living area should be kept to a minimum and the oceanside end should be lifted high into the air and surrounded by glass to extend the view as much as possible. Many panoramic views are the key to maximizing the advantage of natural light.

Evenings and nights can be cool or even cold on the beach depending on the season. If your budget allows, a fireplace in an outdoor living area can be the perfect solution. Fire against the backdrop of the ocean is a classical allusion and can add to the beauty of your beach house floor plan.

About the Author: Rebecca Welch is a successful webmaster and publisher of BuyHousePlansOnline.com. She provides researched information on house floor plan styles.

Source: isnare.com

Permanent Link: isnare.com/?aid=81660&ca=Real+Estate

byAlma Abell

If you’re designing or remodeling your Minneapolis home to last a lifetime, there are certain flooring choices that are better than others. Ideally, you’ll want to choose Vinyl Flooring in Minneapolis, MN that will last at least 50-100 years to get the most for your investment. Below are the best picks for flooring materials when you have longevity in mind.

HardwoodHardwood flooring is classic, durable and built to last. If you invest in a quality product, hardwood flooring will still look attractive centuries later. As an added bonus, hardwood is one of the only flooring materials that can boost the resale value of your home. While the actual numbers will vary depending on the housing % more valuable than comparable homes that primarily feature carpeting. What species of wood will last the longest? According to experts, all domestic and exotic species have a similar life expectancy, although some species like maple are more resistant to humidity changes.

Natural StoneAccording to the International Association of Home Builders, quality natural stone flooring like granite will last 100 years or longer. At around $25 per square foot, high-end granite tiles are definitely an investment, but they add a sophistication that can attract potential buyers if you plan to sell in the future. The trick to making sure your stone floors stay stain-free and attractive over the years is to make sure they’re sealed properly on a regular basis. According to experts, your granite should be professionally sealed every year to maintain its longevity.

If you invest in the right flooring for your home, you’ll never need to worry about replacing it again. Long-lasting flooring materials like hardwood, natural stone and vinyl can last a lifetime and add significant resale value to your home.Click here for more information.