Miami’s iconic oceanfront estates are the epitome of opulence. Even more impressive than their appearance, though, is their durability. Living on the water means you’re more exposed to the elements, and hurricanes are just a part of life here in South Florida. 

So, how do you design a home that’s adequately prepared for inclement weather and aesthetically pleasing at the same time? Fortunately, when you work with an experienced Miami architect, once you’ve checked that first box, you’ll find that you’ve already laid the groundwork for the second. 

• Know Your Area’s BFE

FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, assigns a BFE (Base Flood Elevation) to each coastal region. This helps determine the minimum height of your first floor, based on how severe the risk of flooding is in your desired location. 

The City of Miami may also conclude that your home requires stem wall foundations, which are raised perimeter walls that further elevate the base of the home. 

So, depending on your location, your home’s foundation may have to be elevated. For this reason, you may want your first floor to be the location of essential spaces like your kitchen. 

• Use Durable Materials

Strong winds and the salty ocean air can take a real toll on your home, so it’s important to protect its integrity with highly durable materials. Waterfront properties are often constructed with reinforced concrete blocks, stainless steel ties, and marine-grade finishes capable of withstanding consistent exposure to salt and humidity. The good thing about hurricane-resistant materials is that their appearance doesn’t fade over time, so your home always looks brand new. 

Another key feature of a hurricane-resistant home is floor-to-ceiling impact windows, which are quite elegant-looking and ideal for indoor-outdoor living. 

• Maximize Your Views

What do elevated foundations and large windows have in common? They’re both conducive to stunning, unobstructed views of the ocean. Since your home is already on a pedestal, you might consider adding a third story. Not only will you maximize your viewing potential, you can turn your living area into the ultimate social space. With sliding glass doors, the fun can easily spill outside onto your deck, where guests can take in the view from different angles. Many waterfront properties even feature infinity-edge pools that naturally blend with the ocean in the background. 

• Check Both Boxes with Waterfront Landscaping

Waterfront-appropriate landscaping can enhance your home’s appearance as well as its protection from erosion and flooding. Certain plants have a higher tolerance for salt like sea oats and native grasses. You can also plant trees with deep roots to stabilize the soil. 

In the end, waterfront homes are intended to be enjoyed from outside as well as the inside. As long as your home is properly elevated and in compliance with FEMA regulations, feel free to expand your outdoor space as much as you wish, even if that means adding a second living area or a fully-furnished lounge. 

When regulations are a concern, it’s crucial to work with a design team that knows how to follow these regulations without compromising on style. This just happens to be our specialty at Debowsky Design Group. Get in touch when you’re ready to build your dream home on the water and we’ll tell you everything you need to know about costs, permits, and timelines.