Applying the principles of universal design, this Carlsbad whole home remodel included the addition of a master suite on the ground level and new bedrooms on the upper level to welcome visiting relatives and guests. Universal design simply means design that works for everyone. Using a combination of careful planning and thoughtful design, decisions such as non-step entryways, wider doorways and passages, extra floor space, adaptable lighting, along with details such as easy to use handles and switches, immediately enhance universal design while adapting to any aesthetic.

Homeowners sometimes think that they must be present during their remodel to monitor each step. This is not necessary when you work with Jackson Design and Remodeling. Our team of professionals is adept at the communication, documentation and build process that allows a homeowner to be out of town, yet count on a successful and satisfying remodeling experience.

Our clients are now living in their stunning Carlsbad home with an ocean view and fresh coastal air in an environment that has been created to thoroughly fit their lifestyle today.

Adapt the design to your “getaway” lifestyle: Too often, a second home is simply a modified version of a primary home with a design that hasn’t adapted to the different lifestyle you enjoy while getting away from it all. When planning your remodel, think about how you spend most of your time in your second home. Are you reading and relaxing in solitude? Spending time in the garden? Entertaining friends in the kitchen? One of our clients uses their Oceanside home as a base for summer surfing adventures. Our remodel of their second home embraces this lifestyle choice with both design and functionality. Colors and materials reflect the Oceanside vibe, the kitchen is designed for casual entertaining, and the flooring was selected for water resistance and durability along with beauty and style.

Reflect your personal style: While simple and neutral might seem easier for a second home, there is so much more inspiration and relaxation to be found in a space that immediately welcomes you and your guests with warm and personal surroundings. If you are a collector, why not use your second home as a space to display some of your favorite finds? If you love to travel, a second home can provide a showcase for treasured keepsakes from memorable trips, or the design can reflect the style of one of your favorite destinations.

Focus on low maintenance: Since you won’t be in your home the majority of the time, the design should be easy to maintain. This is particularly important when planning your landscaping. Having adequate and innovative storage solutions for your linens, kitchen and bathroom supplies is also essential for a home that is visited less often.

Get creative with the help of a professional design team and make your second home one-of-a-kind!

1. Make it Work for You. Some people revel in downtime, taking the opportunity to catch up on summer reading or take afternoon naps in the backyard. Some prefer to garden. Others enjoy inviting friends for a visit to cook gourmet meals and drink wine together. For some second home owners, total retreat from everyday distractions is a must – such as a no television rule. For others, a small home office in their second home is a necessity. Spend some time reflecting about how you use your home now and how you would ideally enjoy spending time there. This will inform the majority of your decisions about remodeling your second home.

2. Create a Relaxing Retreat. A second home represents a place to “get away from it all.” The design of your home should reflect that feeling of relaxation in a way that is very personal. A favorite vacation spot can be a wonderful design inspiration, using cultural influences from another locale to reflect on treasured memories. Another idea is to make your second home a sanctuary for a relaxing hobby such as reading or gardening with an expansive library or lush landscaping. A spa-like bathroom is a popular option in a second home, where there is more time to linger and luxuriate.

3. Choose an Easy Process. Homeowners sometimes think that they must be present during the remodel of their second home to monitor each step. This should not be necessary if you choose a design and build firm with the experience and systems in place to make your remodel an enjoyable experience. Be sure to choose a company that has demonstrated skills with project management and communication during a second home remodel. You don’t want the remodel of your vacation home to cause extra stress!

Your home away from home should be a place you can retreat to and leave behind the worries of the world. Choose the right remodeler to make that happen and your second home will always be hard to leave!