Build Your Dream Coastal Home in Shore Acre
Shore Acres, Florida, is a stunning coastal neighborhood renowned for its scenic waterfront views, relaxed charm, and vibrant community. Nestled in the heart of St. Petersburg, Shore Acres provides the perfect setting for designing a custom coastal home that reflects your unique lifestyle.
Why Choose Shore Acres?
Shore Acres is a sought-after gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, offering residents a peaceful environment paired with a wealth of recreational opportunities. With its picturesque canals, lush greenery, and proximity to Tampa Bay, this neighborhood is ideal for boating, kayaking, and enjoying the best of waterfront living.
Beyond its natural beauty, Shore Acres offers convenient access to St. Petersburg’s top attractions, including world-class dining, eclectic shopping, and cultural hotspots like the Salvador Dalí Museum and vibrant downtown districts. Families will also appreciate the highly-rated schools and welcoming community atmosphere.
Key Considerations for a Coastal Home
When evaluating a site for your custom coastal home, there are some key factors to consider to make sure you’re choosing the perfect spot for your dream home.
Understanding Flood Zones
Coastal Zones Explained
- AE Zone: The AE zone is typically found in areas that are subject to flooding during a 100-year flood event, which has a 1% chance of occurring in any given year. Buildings in this zone are required to have their lowest floor elevated to at least one foot above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). This helps minimize flood damage while ensuring compliance with local building codes and insurance requirements. Sometimes flood compensation requirements are involved so a civil engineer should be consulted to determine the feasibility of these requirements.
- V Zone: The V zone, or Velocity zone, is located in areas where wave action can cause significant flooding and erosion during storms. Structures in this zone must be elevated to a height that is at least one foot above the BFE, and they must be supported by pilings, columns, oversized footers, and breakaway walls. This design is crucial to withstand the forces of moving water and reduce the risk of structural damage.
- Coastal A Zone: The Coastal A zone is an intermediate area between the AE and V zones, where wave action is less severe but still poses a flood risk. Structures in this zone are also required to be elevated above the BFE, though the exact height requirements can vary based on local regulations. The building requirements for Coastal A zones are very similar to those required in VE zones.
- Conclusion: Understanding these zones is essential for coastal home building. At Covenant Homes, we are committed to guiding our clients through the complexities of coastal construction to ensure that their homes are safe, resilient, and tailored to their needs.
Soil Composition
Water-adjacent properties often have varying soil compositions, such as sand, silt, clay, and organic material, which can significantly impact the stability and suitability for construction. A geotechnical report provides a detailed analysis of the soil composition. This report is required when the property is in a coastal flood zone as it has an effect on the design and cost to build.
Environmental Considerations
Assess any environmental restrictions or protected areas, such as wetlands, that may impact construction.
Custom Foundation Solutions
Building near or on the water may require specialized foundation techniques like pilings, piers, or deep foundations. The geotechnical report provides essential data to design these foundations correctly.
See the coastal home builder page for all of the details. Browse through our gallery of custom coastal homes to see the homes our design team has built.
View Our Floor Plans
Build a Custom Coastal Home in Shore Acres
Shore Acres isn’t just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle. Building a custom coastal home here means you can create a space that perfectly suits your needs while embracing the beauty and tranquility of the area. Whether you envision a sleek, modern waterfront retreat, a charming bungalow, or a spacious family haven, a trusted custom home builder can bring your dream to life.
Take the first step toward your dream of coastal living in Shore Acres, Florida. Design a custom home that blends luxury, comfort, and the unparalleled charm of this waterfront neighborhood.