Two Story Beach House Floor Plans

Two-Story Beach House Floor Plans: A Comprehensive Guide

The beach is a magical place that offers endless opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and creating lasting memories with loved ones. Whether you're looking for a permanent residence or a vacation home, a two-story beach house can provide the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With careful planning and design, you can create a two-story beach house that's both functional and stylish, with features that take full advantage of the stunning coastal scenery. ### 1. Layout and Design Considerations When designing a two-story beach house, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind: #### a) Space Planning: *

Open Floor Plan:

An open floor plan is a popular choice for beach houses, as it promotes a sense of spaciousness and allows for easy flow between living areas. *

Well-Defined Zones:

While an open floor plan is desirable, it's still important to define separate zones for living, dining, and cooking. This can be achieved through careful placement of furniture, room dividers, or changes in flooring. #### b) Views and Orientation: *

Capitalize on Views:

Position the main living areas, bedrooms, and outdoor spaces to take advantage of the ocean views. Large windows and sliding glass doors can help bring the beauty of the beach into the home. *

Orientation:

Consider the position of the sun when planning the orientation of the house. This will help ensure that living areas are shaded during hot summer days while maximizing natural light in the winter months. #### c) Indoor-Outdoor Connection: *

Seamless Transitions:

Create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This can be achieved through large decks, patios, or screened-in porches that extend the living areas to the outdoors. *

Outdoor Amenities:

Incorporate outdoor amenities such as a pool, hot tub, or outdoor kitchen to maximize enjoyment of the beach lifestyle. ### 2. Functional and Stylish Features A two-story beach house offers the opportunity to include a variety of functional and stylish features: #### a) Kitchen and Dining: *

Open Kitchen:

An open kitchen with a large island or breakfast bar can serve as the heart of the home, providing a gathering space for family and friends. *

High-End Appliances:

Invest in high-quality appliances that will stand up to the demands of beach living. Consider a gas range, double oven, and Sub-Zero refrigerator. *

Coastal-Inspired Decor:

Incorporate coastal-inspired elements such as seashells, driftwood, and light blues and greens into the kitchen's decor. #### b) Living Areas: *

Comfortable Seating:

Choose comfortable seating that encourages relaxation and conversation. Oversized couches, armchairs, and ottomans are all great options for a beach house living area. *

Fireplace:

A cozy fireplace can provide warmth and ambiance on chilly nights. Consider a gas fireplace for ease of use and maintenance. *

Entertainment Center:

Include a built-in entertainment center with a large TV and sound system. This will provide a dedicated space for movie nights and game days. #### c) Bedrooms and Bathrooms: *

Master Suite Oasis:

The master suite should be a private retreat with stunning views of the beach. Include a spacious bedroom, a luxurious bathroom with a soaking tub, and a private balcony or patio. *

Guest Bedrooms:

Guest bedrooms should be comfortable and inviting, offering plenty of space for family and friends. Consider adding bunk beds or trundle beds to accommodate larger groups. *

Spa-Like Bathrooms:

Bathrooms should be designed with relaxation in mind. Incorporate natural elements such as stone and wood, and add a touch of luxury with fixtures and finishes in gold or chrome. ### 3. Exterior Design and Materials The exterior design and materials of a two-story beach house should complement the coastal surroundings and withstand the harsh elements: #### a) Siding and Trim: *

Durable Materials:

Choose siding and trim materials that are resistant to moisture, salt, and wind. Vinyl, fiber cement, and HardiePlank are all popular options. *

Coastal Colors:

Opt for light and airy colors that reflect the beachy atmosphere. White, beige, and light gray are classic choices. *

Accent Colors:

Add pops of color with shutters, trim, and doors in bright and cheerful hues. Consider shades of blue, green, and yellow. #### b) Roofing and Gutters: *

Standing Seam Metal:

Standing seam metal roofs are a popular choice for beach houses due to their durability and longevity. *

Gutters and Downspouts:

Install gutters and downspouts to effectively manage rainwater and protect the foundation of the house. #### c) Decks and Patios: *

Trex Decking:

Trex decking is a low-maintenance option that resists fading, staining, and rot. It's also splinter-free, making it safe for bare feet. *

Pavers:

Pavers are a durable and attractive option for patios and walkways. They come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, allowing for creative designs. ### 4. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency Incorporating sustainable and energy-efficient features into a two-story beach house can have both environmental and financial benefits: #### a) Energy-Efficient Appliances: *

Invest in Energy Star Appliances:

Energy Star appliances use less energy than standard models, helping to reduce utility bills and your carbon footprint. #### b) Renewable Energy Sources: *