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<title>Essential Accessories for a Nautical&#45;Themed Home</title>
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<pubDate>Sat, 26 Jul 2025 03:00:06 +0800</pubDate>
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<title>All Things Powder Bath</title>
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  Hello Spring! (Is the cold weather actually gone for good though?) Either way, I cannot believe it’s almost March, spring has sprung here in Florida and I’m definitely excited about it. The warm weather gets me in the mood to freshen up everything around the house. Are you feeling it, too?I recently shared a little reel on Instagram of our powder bath to showcase the addition of our towel ring and toilet paper holder. After all the Instragram story polls ranging from modern minimal styles to more classic pieces, we settled on the Delta champagne bronze to match our plumbing fixtures. We have a wide spread  Delta Arvo faucet HERE. Matt recently installed this Delta towel ring HERE and toilet paper holder HERE.If you are interested in hearing how Matt created the beautiful faux shiplap walls in our powder bath you can read all about it HERE. They are painted Benjamin Moore Hale Navy. We have bright white penny tile flooring with bright white grout. (Honestly, the floor is BEAUTIFUL but so hard to maintain. Too much bright white and too much grout, I think) We have 8” baseboards painted Sherwin Williams Pure White (same as all the trim in the bathroom). The gold/crystal doorknob is by Emtek (very similar one linked) HERE and you can read about them HERE. My powder bath cabinet is fully custom built, stained with Minwax Special Walnut. I always get questions about the gold crab cabinet hardware but unfortunately the Knobpologie shop on Etsy is currently sold out of that item. The countertop is Carrera Marmi Quartz by MSI. My sconces are the Seaport 16 inch by Elk Lighting in satin brass but sadly they are discontinued. Elk Lighting has created a new version of the Seaport which has a very similar look but is slightly smaller. Amazon does have the original Seaport light linked HERE. The mirror is linked HERE. It’s a lookalike to the Serena &amp; Lily montara mirror. Our powder bath lights are on dimmers (same as every other room in our house) which allows for ambient lighting and keeps the lights matching the mood. I think I got everything, right? That room is SO close to being “complete” but I still want to add some thingggg (not sure what yet) to that back wall above the commode. Maybe a few floating shelves. Maybe just artwork. If you have any ideas or recommendations, I’m open to hearing it.Thank you for being here, it really does mean the world to me! I appreciate ALL of the like, comments, DMs, shares, emails, etc. Hope it’s a great week for you!With Love,





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





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<title>Our New Pantry</title>
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  Hi! ???????? Hello! ???????? And How do you do? ????????????????????‍♀️ (That cheer always pops in my head when I sit down to write a blog intro ????????‍????) Seriously, though, how do you do? I hope the new year has been kind to you so far. If you’ve been following along on instagram you may have noticed our new pantry design. Hallelujah PTL ????????????????





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  













































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  I’ll tell you what… it’s SO NICE to have storage space and organization for our kitchen stuff. We have all our small appliances tucked on the bottom shelving and on the upper shelves we stocked our pantry with our must-haves, some back stock items, and pieces of my pretty dish collections. Honestly, I’m constantly fiddling around with the organization. One day I’ll have it just like I want it ????I wanted to share all the deets in one place because I know it’s helpful for planning. So without further ado.Karlos with Next Level Finishing built this pantry out for us based on some sketches that Matt drew. I found several inspo photos of pantries on instagram and that’s how it all started ????????Karlos took the shelving from the floor all the way up to the ceiling for 10 feet of usable wall space. The pantry is approx 7’ x 5’6”. He built adjustable shelving which we mostly kept at 12” but we did make a few shelves taller and a few shorter to accomodate different height items. Our pantry door is vintage from an old home that my Great Granny Ross lived in. I used to run over to her house as a kid because my Memaw lived on the property adjacent so it was a yard that I was very familiar with. My Granny passed in 2004 and then in 2018 Hurricane Michael basically collapsed her abandoned, dilapidated house. Matt and I rode up there and went through the rubble to search for anything that I might want to keep for sentiment. I tried several of her shaker paneled doors but most were broken and in severe disrepair. Then, I stumbled upon this one. It had glass inserts and panels… yessss! It showed major signs of wear and tear, but the door was in ok shape and I knew it was The One. 





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Karlos lengthened it by adding 2 additional shaker panels to make it a full 8 feet tall to match our pantry door opening. We cleaned the glass up and then Matt and I both took turns sanding the door down. Matt added several layers of semigloss SW Pure White paint which brought her back to life. We found gold sliding door hardware on Wayfair that matched our kitchen vibe. I love the character she brings to our kitchen, adding a balance of old + well-loved amongst all the new + modern. Watch the transformation HEREWatch the reveal HEREPaint: SW Pure White in semiglossButcher Block countertop from Lowe’s  Odie’s Oil to seal and make it food safeMy air tight plastic containers are from AmazonWayfair sliding door hardwareThis was such a fun project and I love how it turned out. We have already started planning our next room upgrade! Can you guess which room we are tackling now? I cannot wait to show you! Follow along @summer_onthe coast on instagram Thank you for being a friend! I truly appreciate all the support. Every like, comment, share, and save is so helpful for Summer On The Coast and I’m forever grateful. Blessings on blessings,Summer





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

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<title>Full Sourcing List: Our Coastal Farmhouse Kitchen</title>
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  I hope your Thanksgiving was great! ???? It has been so nice to laze around the house for days on end, eat good food, and just get some quality time in with loved ones. I know the space between Thanksgiving and Christmas always flies by, so I’m just soaking it all in. While I’ve been loungin’ around this weekend, I put together the sourcing for our coastal farmhouse kitchen. The kitchen anchors the main floor and sets the tone for our coastal palette throughout this custom coastal farmhouse build. ICYMI, this is a custom design + build that my husband and I owner built three years ago (my gosh, time flies ????). 





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  I wanted to keep our color scheme simple so I chose SW Pure White and BM Hale Navy accented by warm wood tones. My countertop preference was a clean white quartz that mimicked marble without bringing in any gray or heavy veining, so I went with MSI Quartz in Calico White. I chose a simple bright white picket tile design for the kitchen backsplash also grouted in white. My island pendants are two 16-inch brass lanterns with candle stick bulbs (which I LOVE). We used these color customizable LED can lights for our main source of lighting in the kitchen set on dimmers. Our cabinetry hardware is an all-Emtek mix of brass cup pull (in french antique) with satin brass hexagon knobs, and satin brass freestone pulls. My floating shelves came from this Etsy store. Above the floating shelves, Matt installed a brass swing arm light fixture to highlight that area. We have accent lighting in our glass cabinets and under cabinet lighting that is hard-wired in that came from our local lighting store. The beautiful seating around the island are the Serena &amp; Lily Riviera stools in navy/white… and they are perfection.





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  (Each source is linked in the underlined words so click on those for more info)I hope this helps! Did I miss anything? Let me know if so; I always love hearing from you so DM, email, comment ???? I’m happy to chat all things home design. Also, please share this blog post with anyone who is looking for coastal kitchen inspo… your support means so much!Love love,





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





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<title>Our Mountain Cabin Custom Build</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/our-mountain-cabin-custom-build</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/our-mountain-cabin-custom-build</guid>
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  On April 20, 2021, Matt and I closed on an empty lot in Gatlinburg. Well, it wasn’t completely empty. It had remnants of a driveway and a cinderblock foundation wall that was holding up the previous cabin before it burnt completely in the 2016 Gatlinburg/PF fires. We started the process of looking for a Tennessee property on January 4 of 2021. I spent an entire drive back from our ski trip convincing Matt to invest in the area. My dream is to own a dreamy mountain cabin where we can escape and make family memories (white water rafting, mountain trail hiking, snow skiing, watching the leaves turn in the fall, etc). We studied the market for 2-3 days and immediately realized that we wanted to try something other than just making an offer for a cabin listed on MLS. We tried several different ideas, but the path that ended up working for us was to contact property owners that had burnt land from the fires. Shortly after we did that, we heard back from an owner that was very interested in selling and he gave us an offer we couldn’t refuse. I filmed a video detailing our process and it’s saved to my instagram highlights if you’re interested in that.





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Since last April, we’ve spent months on the design, permitting, and build processes. We started immediately interviewing builders and designers once we got the property under contract. We were working with a builder for a few months, but after huge delays in getting our plans finalized, we shifted our plan. We had met another builder that had recently built a cabin next door, and he was very interested in building that same/similar plan again. I loved the huge wall of windows that he created and I wanted the same design so we could have those beautiful panoramic views of the mountains. Finally, after months of engineering, design, and permitting delays, we got the build started early summer 2022. It has been a slow and steady process, but we’re hoping for an April 2023 completion date. Our construction loan was projected to close this month (November 2022), but due to being so behind with the build, we had to extend the closing. We drove up to Gatlinburg last week to meet with our contractor and develop a detailed timeline plan to complete the cabin. Matt is going to be much more involved with the project management to help us get to the finish line. We hope you’ll follow along our build journey and help us as we make decisions (I like to put polls in stories) on finishing and getting her ready for vacationers! ????           Our final goal is to complete all three floors to have multiple sleeping spaces, 3.5 baths, a movie + a game room totaling 2700 sf and the whole cabin will be available for rental on AirBNB + VRBO. We’d love to host you and your family in the Smoky Mountains… soon! ????️Thank you so much for being here! You can support SOTC by sharing  Instagram posts + blog posts, saving, liking, and commenting ???? your support means the world to me ????????Click here for a current cabin tour Much love,





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





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<item>
<title>Kitchen Design Tips</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/kitchen-design-tips</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/kitchen-design-tips</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  A common question I see is: How far away is your island from your cabinets?The short answer is that they are 60 inches from cabinet to island and 66 inches from cabinet base to island base. We have walkways on either side of our island and those are 44-47 inches, depending where you measure. Our kitchen is set up with a traditional “kitchen work triangle” and I usually stay inside that triangle while doing my prep work. 





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  The kitchen work triangle is the triangle formed between the sink, refrigerator, and range/stove. We kept our main working areas within 5-6 feet of each other. The counter space outside of that triangle is mostly used for decor or kept clean. The experts (according to Better Homes and Gardens &amp; The Spruce -click for direct link to source) recommend a minimum of 42 inches of walkway in a single-cook kitchen. If you have two people working in the kitchen at the same time, they recommend at least 48 inches. Some other quick cabinetry measurement recs: keep your dishwasher within 36 inches of your sink, all walkways should be 36 inches minimum (regardless if there is a workspace or not). Always keep in mind how your appliances and doors will swing open and leave plenty of space to avoid problem areas. I cook 5-6 days per week so having a very functional layout has been really nice. Matt always helps me with dishes and keeping the kitchen clean so we are really pleased that our kitchen layout allows us to both work simultaneously. I hope this information is helpful; please share with anyone who is building, renovating, or even just dreaming of a custom kitchen one day. Thank you for being here!Kitchen Hardware: Emtek Products Kitchen Cabinet Perimeter: SW Pure WhiteKitchen Island: BM Hale NavyKitchen Runner: Boutique Rugs (click for link)Sincerely,





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
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<title>Drywall Dilemmas</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/drywall-dilemmas</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/drywall-dilemmas</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ The best building tips for those creating their new home with a custom 
builder. Learn all the tips and tricks for your farmhouse custom build. ]]></description>
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<item>
<title>Owner Building Tips</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/owner-building-tips</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/owner-building-tips</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Hi! ???????? How are you doing? Did you survive back-to-school season? ????‍???? I feel like even if you don’t have kids, the hustle and bustle in the stores and in the streets really impacts everyone this time of year! If that’s not you then I am way jealous ???? We are tryin’ real hard to make some new routines + schedules in our home and I am here for it (read: earlier bedtimes), but currently exhausted (read: also earlier wake up times). It is getting better each day, though! ????





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Ok, let’s talk about owner building (AKA self building). I’ve done it twice now and have loved the process and loved being in control of my own project + design.  However, it’s not all fun and games. It’s a monstrous undertaking; each time it has been a 2+ year commitment of time, money, patience, etc. But for me it has been an extremely satisfying and lucrative journey (the savings is FOR REAL ????). If you’re considering taking it on, I’ve got 6 hot tips to get you going!Have your land already picked out/ purchased and know where and how you want your home positioned on the land. This becomes really important when drawing up your plans and knowing where to place windows/doors. And, always know where the sunrises and sets in relation to your future home site.Make sure you know your HOA requirements (if you are in an HOA) and your city/county requirements. Florida has lots of building regulations because we are right in the hurricane danger zone (boy do we know a little somethin’ about that ‘round here). I think it’s a good idea to set up a meeting at your building department and discuss what the requirements are. It also helps to get you on a first name basis with the folks that will be processing your permits and guiding you through the paperwork stages. Also, if you use a local building supply store for materials they will be well-versed in local codes and you won’t have that extra worry.Before you purchase your land, I recommend that you find out the water, gas, and electric hookup situation. Are you going to have to run those lines yourself (usually the costs are pretty hefty and you may require neighbors permission if going across their property) or are they already on site? These can be make-or-break type issues, so don’t wait to find this out.You can of course develop this in a way that works best for you, but I highly recommend a joint email account that receives all communication, bids, invoices, etc so that you and (whomever else) can both see all communication as it comes through. It really helps streamline information and cuts down on time spent just regurgitating duplicate info. Matt and I do this for our projects and it seems to work really well. In that same vein, I recommend a shared google calendar. If you have a better calendar app, then by all means use that. Google is the easiest for us because we use our joint email through google and then have a calendar attached to that account. Man, it’s so nice to just add something to the calendar and know that we both can see it and know what’s going on. Organization and communication is KEY to project management. PRO TIP: Have an experienced building consultant available. This is the secret sauce. If you don’t work in the construction industry (or maybe even if you do), pay a trusted + licensed contractor an hourly fee to be your consultant. There’s so many reasons to have this set up and in your back pocket, I don’t even have time to list them all here. Construction is a crazy roller coaster ride with so much money at stake. You will thank me later. You’re welcome. 





















  
  






  Thank you SO much for being here with me! But guess what?!? My website is getting a makeover so while it’s down I will just be hanging out over on insta @summer_onthecoast Come say hi and let’s talk home design in stories each day! love love,





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
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<item>
<title>Let’s Talk Trim…</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/lets-talk-trim</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/lets-talk-trim</guid>
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  During the construction of our Florida coastal farmhouse I got so overwhelmed with design decisions. I think it’s pretty common with custom house building because every single last detail requires a decision. And it’s draining sometimes. When it came time to choosing our trim work I needed a guide; the options were endless. My research on trim and baseboard options yielded the 7% and 50% rules. I was seeing homes on Pinterest and instagram that baseboards commonly ranged from 4 inches and up to 10 inches. I was like, “what the heck makes sense and is going to look good in my house?” I found that many designers use a 7% rule in deciding baseboard height, meaning the baseboard should be roughly 7% of total wall height for optimal scale and visual appeal. This was the concrete advice I was needing. The math was 7% of 120 inches (our walls are generally 10 ft tall except we do have a two story staircase and living room) which equals 8.4 inches. Therefore, we used 8” baseboards throughout our home. I love the way they frame our rooms, not too large that they detract and not so small that they get lost in decor.





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Also, we chose a daily standard craftsman style trim design to frame our doors and windows. Using the 50% rule (trim should be 50% size of your baseboards) we did 4 inch trim around doors and windows with a large 8” header on top. If we had chosen picture frame trim design, for example, the math would be 4 inches on all sides. I hope that makes sense!Of course the bottom line is that with anything in life (but especially building your own custom home), you can be creative and choose any size and style of trim design that suits your taste and budget! The rules serve more as a guide for people who desire to use them.





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Thank you for being here and I always love to hear from you in comments, DMs, or emails ????Love and sunshine,Summer ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Sun, 20 Jul 2025 03:00:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Let’s, Talk, Trim…</media:keywords>
</item>

<item>
<title>Good Food Swaps</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/good-food-swaps</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/good-food-swaps</guid>
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  I love to recipe swap with my instagram friends ???????? I get lots of good meal ideas from my scrolling so I try to make sure I give back and share my favorites. It’s a give and take. With a family of five (that includes three grown adults and two preschool age), it’s not always easy to make a meal that appeals to everyone. So if we can all agree on something, I immediately SAVE to my recipe roll in my phone. I’ve been making this Taco Casserole for at least 8 years. At least. It’s easy, quick, and can be made on a budget and with many organic items ???????? It’s also good on the pocketbook ???????? Let me know if you try this and what you think! I added a recipe card with all the info for easy screen shots + save. 





















  
  



 


  Easy Baby Back Ribs Recipe for the Family





















  
  






  For some reason, I only think to make this baby back rib meal when it’s hot outside ???? And I’ll be honest, I don’t always do the grilling step (and no one has ever complained, so don’t go spilling my secrets LOL). I always serve the ribs with these Spicy Pinto Beans and this Angelhair Coleslaw. I’m going to quickly talk you through how to make the sides. They pair perfectly with the rib sauce and the best bite is one that is combined with all three foods! Ok, for the Spicy Pinto Beans make sure you have: 2 cans pinto beans, 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion, 1 jalapeno chopped, 1/2 tsp ground cumin. Combine all in saucepan. Bring to boil, reduce heat, simmer 10 mins. Done! For the Coleslaw just mix 1 package of angel hair coleslaw mix together with 2 tbsp white vinegar, 3 tbsp olive oil mayo, and 1 tsp honey. Chef’s Kiss. The whole family loves this meal and we hope yours will, too… Enjoy! ???? (The recipe card has all the details for the rib preparation) 





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  I would love to know if you make anything that I share! Tag me in it so I can see OR you can always DM/comment/email me and tell me that way. I appreciate the feedback ????Here’s to full tummies ????????,





















  
  






  Spicy Pinto Beans Recipe:Ingredients:2 cans pinto beans1/2 cup chopped yellow onion1 jalapeno chopped1/2 tsp ground cuminInstructions:Combine all in saucepan. Bring to boil, reduce heat, simmer 10 mins.





















  
  






  xx, till next time





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  


  ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Sun, 20 Jul 2025 03:00:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Good, Food, Swaps</media:keywords>
</item>

<item>
<title>My Summertime Tablescape</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/my-summertime-tablescape</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/my-summertime-tablescape</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Happy Summer! I have been delayed doing everything right now. I know I sound like a broken record, but my ear is just slowing me down. It’s been eye-opening to experience this. I have been praying for complete resolution so I’ll be able to hear 100% again. It’s mostly affecting my ability to multi-task, which is usually my superpower.Here are the promised sources for my current tablescape. Be sure to check it out on my recent Instagram reel, if you haven’t already (and thank you so much for doing so). 





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Our shared dining room/kitchen wall recently got a coastal upgrade with this framed Crane Bird Panel Trio. We needed something large to make a statement on this wall and these 30 x 50 “ prints were the perfect addition. We are so pleased with how it turned out! Check them out here.Looped placemat from Amazon- I wanted the trendy looped placemat look but didn’t want to pay a premium, so I checked Amazon. The loops are not perfectly symmetrical and they are only 11” diameter, so they’re better suited for a layered look or for luncheon-sized dishes. My dinner plates covered the whole placemat, unfortunately. But the price was so good that I still recommend these if you want this look for a one-time or short-term use. I only plan to use these until fall, but if they last longer, then that’s great. If you want the high quality version for long term use, try THESE FROM Crate &amp; Barrel or THIS affordable option at Target.Champagne flatware from Amazon- This was another good price relative to most on gold/champagne flatware. I wasn’t sure how much I’d use these so I’m glad I went with a budget option. So far, the color has lasted through a few dinners and dishwasher trips. Large and Small Natural candleholders- The outdoor seagrass lanterns are part of the Studio McGee collab at Target. They’re just a great touch for any summer table. Of course, I embroidered my own personalized dinner napkins. If you like the starchy polyester feel, I grabbed THESE from Amazon, but I’m already looking for softer, linen-blend options to replace them with. 





















  
  






  

  



  
    
      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      
    
  

  













  Hope you are enjoying the outdoors and getting lots of vitamin D!Love + Sunshine,





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





   ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Sun, 20 Jul 2025 03:00:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Summertime, Tablescape</media:keywords>
</item>

<item>
<title>Current Cabinetry Palette</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/current-cabinetry-palette</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/current-cabinetry-palette</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Happy, happy weekend! ???? Memorial Day weekend was so busy that I am savoring just being lazy around the house in pjs. The kitchen is clean, the kids are playing nicely… What. A. Day. ????????????We still have some cabinetry we plan to add to our coastal farmhouse, some areas that we intend to change (the range hood… IYKYK ????), and one room that I am considering re-painting the cabinets????. A home is really always a “work in progress&quot;, AMIRITE?!? Maybe it’s just me.I wanted to share our current picks for cabinet colors. These are all original to when we moved in. If we make any changes, I’ll definitely do an update for ya. Keep in mind our home is built in Florida and faces west. We have mucho windows with TONS of natural light and most of these photos were taken in daytime lighting.Here is our cabinetry color choies:Kitchen perimeter cabinetry: SW Pure WhiteKitchen Island: BM Hale NavyM Bath cabinetry: SW Pure WhiteLaundry Room: SW Iron OrePowder Bath: Minwax Special WalnutKids Bath: SW Pure BathUpstairs Bath: Minwax Special Walnut





















  
  






  

  



  
    
      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      
    
  

  













  I hope that helps if you are looking to make any paint/color decisions for your cabinetry. Do you have any current favorite cabinet paint colors? I’d really love to hear about them! Let me know in comments/DM/email. Thank you for being here with me!Have a positively perfect week! ☀️





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
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<pubDate>Sun, 20 Jul 2025 03:00:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Current, Cabinetry, Palette</media:keywords>
</item>

<item>
<title>Our Coastal Farmhouse Paint Palette</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/our-coastal-farmhouse-paint-palette</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/our-coastal-farmhouse-paint-palette</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 
          
        
        

        
          
            
              
              
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
            
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Hi! Long time, no talk…. Kinda. I went on vacay and took a little time off of blogging. My first time attending the Kentucky Derby (and Thurby) was SO full of fun and excitement! I’ll share a couple photos below if you missed my stories on Instagram.





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  A couple of weeks ago a sweet stranger pulled into my driveway and asked me about our exterior color. That conversation progressed into talking about whole-home color palettes and all things home design + construction. She is building nearby and it was so much fun to hear her plans and I was so honored that she stopped in to chat. Our conversation got me to thinking about sharing our current palette so I put together my most recent insta reel. But I wanted to actually list the paint colors out in written format since I know so many folks prefer that. Here is what we have so far:Exterior siding: SW Pure WhiteExterior Doors: Minwax Early American





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Porch ceilings- Clear coat on tongue-n-grooveMain living: SW AlabasterAll trim: Pure WhiteHallway: top- SW OpalineBottom- SW Pure WhitePowder bath- BM Hale NavyI hope this helps if you’re trying to decide! Have a great weekend, y’all!Lots’o sunshine,Summer





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  













































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  













































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  













































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  

  



  
    
      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
                
                
              
            
          

          
        

      

        

        

        
          
            
              
                
                
                  
                  
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<pubDate>Sun, 20 Jul 2025 03:00:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Our, Coastal, Farmhouse, Paint, Palette</media:keywords>
</item>

<item>
<title>Al Fresco Dreamin&amp;apos; with Polywood</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/al-fresco-dreamin-with-polywood</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/al-fresco-dreamin-with-polywood</guid>
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  Spring has sprung ???? and for us that means lots of al fresco family dinners. If you have followed my insta stories much in the last few weeks you might have noticed a trend: we love dining outdoors ???? Spring in North Florida is typically very nice and warm with regular sunshine-y days so thankfully we get lots of opportunities to enjoy meals on our porch and I recently partnered with Polywood to make ALL our “al fresco dreams” come true! I wanted to give you a little background into who Polywood is and what they are all about. Polywood has been a leader in outdoor furniture for 30 years and was the first company to use recycled plastic in production of outdoor furniture. Sustainability is truly at the heart of the company, as their mission is to recover and transform landfill + ocean-bound plastic into durable furniture. They recycle up to 400k plastic-filled containers per day and as of 2021, one million pounds of plastic has been transformed into beautiful Polywood outdoor living pieces. Each piece is made up of genuine Polywood lumber which includes a 20 year warranty. Making memories outdoors is so important to Polywood and their outdoor pieces can be found in various styles including classic, transitional, and modern so there is truly something for everyone ????????Polywood is part of the #stopoceanplastic movement, of which you can follow and be a part on social media as well.





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  For our back porch family mealtimes, Matt and I chose the 7-piece Chippendale Dining Set and we are absolutely thrilled with it. First, the table and chairs required very minimal assembly (which is honestly SO NICE ????????). Second, the pieces are all sturdy and wipe down easily (read: kid/toddler friendly)???????????????? It has been such a dream to eat our meals outside as a family and not worry about kid messes or destruction of furniture (IYKYK)???? I highly, highly recommend Polywood outdoor living pieces if you’re in the market for beautiful and durable outdoor living pieces.





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  You can find and follow Polywood on all your favorite socials: Instagram @polywoodFacebook @polywoodoutdoor Pinterest @polywoodTwitter @polywoodTiktok @polywoodoutdoorYoutube @polywoodBe sure to also follow their company hashtags for regular updates: #polywood #loveyouroutdoorsAs always, please feel free to comment, email, DM, or comments on my Instagram post with any questions and let me know if you have purchased Polywood for your outdoor spaces! I’d love to hear from you!Happy spring ????????????y’all, 





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  













































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
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<pubDate>Sun, 20 Jul 2025 03:00:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Fresco, Dreamin, with, Polywood</media:keywords>
</item>

<item>
<title>Spring Time Recipe Roundup</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/spring-time-recipe-roundup</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/spring-time-recipe-roundup</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Happy Spring, y’all! ???? I’m so giddy for longer days full of sunshine and outdoor fun. And al fresco dining ????Every so often I like to share some of my recent faves in the kitchen. A few days ago we enjoyed a special family dinner on our back porch and the family was a consensus on the menu: yummy ???? The dinner menu included a bagged sweet kale salad from Publix, a Creamy Lemon Garlic Seafood Pasta, glazed carrots, buttered French sourdough bread, and a Publix bakery-made fruit tart. Easy peasy lemon squeezy ???????????? This meal slaps (that’s hip teenage talk for “is awesome” ????) and is KID APPROVED ✅Creamy Lemon Garlic Seafood Pasta is courtesy of The Recipe Critic via Pinterest. Their website has a LOT of information about this recipe + tips for storing and reheating it. I definitely recommend checking out their very detailed write up about this pasta dish if you’re interested. The author also shares the nutrition facts, if those are needed. Side note: I never add mussels to this pasta even though the original recipe calls for them. I just prefer the shrimp and scallop combo. 





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  We love shopping at Publix (no, not sponsored or paid to say that ☺️ but holler at me Publix ????because I could totally be your spokesgirl ????). Publix offers so many fresh, delicious options so I almost always pair one of their many pre-made “chopped salad” bags to our dinner. Their bakery is the most underrated place in town (IMHO)! I sliced a loaf of their freshly baked French sourdough, buttered it, and baked for a quick few minutes, then served it hot. I also love their bakery desserts so I served their fresh berry fruit tart and it was gone pretty much as soon as I set it on the table. ????The Balsamic Glazed Carrots is a fun twist on regular ol’ glazed carrots. My girls much prefer carrots over any other vegetable so I’ve been making them in various ways for years. The balsamic touch just adds something special and everyone in the house requests them now. This recipe was pulled from my absolute fave local cookbook (it’s beautiful AND full of delish recipes) called Bay Fetes: A Tour Of Celebrations Along The Gulf Coast. I have found it locally for sale in Something’s Cooking but I found my like-new copy on Ebay for $6. The only adjustment I have made to this recipe is that I use baby or petite carrots instead of using large carrots julienned.                                                                   





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  













































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





   Another fave meal that has been in the dinner rotations for YEARSS is Lettuce Wraps (pf changs style). This recipe creator is Frugal Living NW and I found it on Pinterest. The one thing I don’t follow from the original recipe is the addition of mushrooms.  I just don’t prefer them, but definitely feel free to use them if you do. I love making these because the fam is so impressed by the meal presentation and they think I’m a culinary genius, even though this meal is suuuuper simple. ????????????????I hope you enjoy trying these recipes out! Thank you for supporting Summer On The Coast by following along here in the blog and on my Instagram. Please let me know in the comments here or on IG if you try any of these, if you already make any of these, and what is your favorite! I’d love to hear your thoughts!Sending you lots of sunshine ☀️ ,





















  
  












































 ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Sun, 20 Jul 2025 03:00:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Spring, Time, Recipe, Roundup</media:keywords>
</item>

<item>
<title>Building Smart: Part 3</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/building-smart-part-3</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/building-smart-part-3</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  HI, FRIENDS!!! ???????? This is the last installment of my home building/renovation savings series. I did hours of research to put together these lists based on many, many current and recent home build experiences/stories. I surely hope these tips have helped you with your planning and preparation ????????If you find yourself at the end of the process with a depleted bank account, these ideas are meant to help you limp to the finish line (and get your Certificate of Occupancy ????????). It’s a list of finishing ideas that will help to keep your costs as small as possible. I have heard so many stories lately of folks getting to the end of their build and not having the money to finish what they had planned for the spaces. We are just living in a  C R A Z Y {home building} world! Hang in there, guys ????Here’s 7 very specific ways to control costs with your finishes:Use hollow core doorsUse 6’8” doors (instead of 8’)Utilize prefab drop-in showers (instead of tile work)LED disc lights (instead of can lights) (this is actually the more popular choice anyway)Buy prefab vanities complete with tops (instead of custom cabinetry and countertop install)Stained concrete flooring (instead of adding LVP or engineered wood, IF you are on slab)Purchase formica or lower tier granite (instead of higher-end, pricey stones)Hollow core doors are less expensive and can be swapped out later for a different style if you so desire. Depending on how many doors, closet doors, etc you have, choosing the more standard size doors (6’8”) could save thousands. I hadn’t really considered this, but I’ve read multiple stories of homeowners who saved money in the short term by using a drop in shower instead of paying for custom tile work. It would be a renovation that can be done down the road, if you’re patient enough to wait. Disc lights are quickly becoming more popular than can lights and they are also less expensive. Purchasing pre-fab vanities with countertops already installed is almost always more budget friendly than doing custom cabinetry and countertops. (And I think it seems like a much faster + easier option, too!) I am seeing several current builds doing stained concrete flooring to save money with a plan of laying down their preferred flooring later on. Of course, this only works for a slab-built home. Lastly, many folks who have completely busted their home building budget and who are in the final stages have made the decision to use butcher block, formica, or lower tier granite for substantial savings on countertops in their new home. This is also something that can be upgraded down the road as your finances allow. It’s not fun to talk about budgets and such, but in this current economy with rising inflation and costs of everything, it really is wise to save in every aspect that you can. We don’t know what the future holds, but you certainly don’t want to be upside down if this huge bubble bursts ???? As always, feel free to email or DM or comment below! Thank you for being here! Follow my INSTAGRAM HERE





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
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<pubDate>Sun, 20 Jul 2025 03:00:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Building, Smart:, Part</media:keywords>
</item>

<item>
<title>Building Smart: Part ✌</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/building-smart-part</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/building-smart-part</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  As promised, here’s a follow up to my last blog post with my pointers on how to save money on your home build/reno. This time, we’re going to talk about the build process and interior plans. Just a quick note on building contracts. If you are able to get a “fixed cost” contract with your builder, that will spare you the worry and stress over rising building costs. The “cost plus” type of payment is more common, but as supply/material costs inflate, so does your fee to pay the builder.  With our cabin build we were able to secure a “fixed cost” contract and so far we haven’t had any overages to our original quote.Another way to control cost is to avoid change orders during the build. Builders typically charge large extra fees to make any changes so as much as you can decide beforehand ( and stick to it), the better.As far as interiors go, one quick and easy way to save money on your build/reno is to lower the ceilings. In most cases, there are significant savings with lowering to 9 ft. In a lot of places, 8 ft ceilings are builder-grade standard, so even going up to 9 ft can give the home a more open feel without busting the budget.Cabinetry is a large part of the home build budget so when it’s feasible, eliminate upper cabinets and do open shelving. Or, eliminate some of your cabinetry altogether and add it later on (such as mudrooms, wet/dry bars, coffee bars, etc) in areas that aren’t in your main living spaces. We chose to do this in our coastal farmhouse build. One day, we will add some builtins to our laundry/mud room area, our living room, and little room we have upstairs that attaches to the kids’ playroom. This saved us roughly $25k on our build cost and as we add it we will just pay cash for it, which is pretty nice.Along that same vein, if your budget is really tight, find ways to add trim, feature walls, tile walls, backsplashes, etc later on after your build is completed. Obviously, tile flooring and any tile that is required for shower/bathing needs to be completed before you move in and use those areas, but if you are using wall tile to add character, consider doing that upgrade down the road. Similarly, custom trim work, features walls and backsplashes are not usually functionally important so I would postpone as much of that as you’re able to save your dough. If you follow along our instagram journey you will see how we have been slowly adding custom touches and diy-ing these areas of our design.In doing research for these blog posts, I read many stories of folks who made the budget friendly choice to use builder-grade plumbing + light fixtures, paint, appliances and then upgrade them over time to higher-end, custom choices. These swaps are easy and inexpensive to make so this seems like a great option if you are in a pinch. Pro Tip 1: let your plumber and electrician know what you plan to upgrade to in advance because you may not easily be able to go from a single mount faucet to a wide spread faucet after the home is completed. Pro Tip 2: buy builder grade appliances that are the same dimensions are your dream set, otherwise, your new set may not fit into your cabinetry/countertop spaces.Let’s recap those tips:“fixed price” contract will probably save money of a “cost plus” contractavoid change orderslower the ceilingsminimize your cabinet order add trim, feature walls, backsplashes, non-functional tile laterbuilder grade fixtures at time of build and upgrade laterI sure hope your building/reno journeys are going smoothly and that your budget far exceeds your costs… but if not, I pray these tips help you reach the finish line. Feel free to follow me on instagram HERE Happy Spring! ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Sun, 20 Jul 2025 03:00:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Building, Smart:, Part, ✌</media:keywords>
</item>

<item>
<title>How To Choose The Right Lot For Your Dream Home</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/how-to-choose-the-right-lot-for-your-dream-home</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/how-to-choose-the-right-lot-for-your-dream-home</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Building your dream home starts long before you ever pour a foundation, it begins with choosing the right lot. The land you select will shape everything from your home’s layout and lighting to how much you enjoy your surroundings. Matt and I have have built 3 custom homes, and we are currently working on a 4th, so we have learned a few thing throughout our building journeys. We realized how important choosing the right lot was after a few fiascos while living our coastal farmhouse. We realized we had done a few things right but also had a few things wrong when planning where we really wanted to be. Whether you&#039;re dreaming of a coastal cottage or a modern farmhouse, here are the key things to consider when picking the perfect lot:1. Start With Your LifestyleDo you crave peace and quiet, or do you want to be close to schools, shops, and restaurants? Your daily routine and long-term goals should help narrow down the best location. For example, if you love sunsets and surf, a lot near the coast might be perfect. If you’re raising a family, proximity to safe neighborhoods and good schools may be a priority.2. Check the Elevation and DrainageA beautiful lot can come with hidden challenges. Is the land sloped or flat? Does it sit in a flood zone or low-lying area? Elevation affects not only how you build but also your home&#039;s long-term safety and insurance costs. Consider getting a topographic survey or elevation certificate to better understand what you&#039;re working with.What we found at our coastal farmhouse build was that the county had a large drainage pipe running down one side of our property. We did not see it prior to our purchasing the lot. It needed some serious TLC and over time caused sink holes in our yard. Also, when we purchased the land it had over 200 mature trees on it and appeared to be basically flat from the road to the water. After clearing and having the elevation checked, it turned out that the land actually had a large slope down and required at least six feet of stem wall to level the front of the home with the back side. That was a $50k surprise. UGH.





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
          
          
            This lot looks flat right? NOOO It has a large slope to it as we found out when building our coastal farmhouse
          
        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Another personal experience we had with this was when searching mountain properties in Tennessee. We originally fell in love with a pristine mountainside property in an HOA neighborhood with a very motivated seller. Thankfully, we had a contractor drive by the lot and he quickly let us know that the property had such a steep slope that just the foundation construction would cost us roughly $300k. We ended that contract REAL QUICK-like. 3. Know the Zoning and RestrictionsBefore falling in love with a piece of land, check local zoning laws, deed restrictions, and HOA rules. These can affect the size of your home, the style of construction, and even whether you’re allowed to build a guesthouse or pool later on. I recently heard stories from a few lot owners that purchased in an HOA neighborhood that was pretty strict and they didn’t bother to read the building restrictions beforehand. They decided afterward that they didn’t want that style of home or the hassle of dealing with the HOA shenanigans. 4. Assess Utilities and AccessIt’s easy to overlook, but does the lot have access to water, sewer, electric, and internet? If not, will you need a septic system or well? Also, how easy is it to access the lot, especially during rainy season? These practical details can add up in both cost and convenience. I am a member of several home building forums and it seems like daily someone is distraught because they purchased property that had no utility access and it is going to cost them a small fortune to get it. It’s SO important to assess this and know the cost BEFORE you fall in love with the land. 





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                 ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 03:00:07 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>How, Choose, The, Right, Lot, For, Your, Dream, Home</media:keywords>
</item>

<item>
<title>5 Smart Things To Do Before Buying In A Flood Zone</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/5-smart-things-to-do-before-buying-in-a-flood-zone</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/5-smart-things-to-do-before-buying-in-a-flood-zone</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
          
          
            St Andrews State Park drone photography by Thomas
          
        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  It’s easy to fall in love with a coastal property or day dream of building a beach home, but it’s important to know what you’re getting into, especially if the land sits in a flood zone. Flood zone properties can be beautiful and full of potential, but they come with serious considerations that could affect your budget, home design, and long term plans.Before you buy, here are 5 really smart steps to take:1. Know Your Flood ZoneNot all flood zones are the same. Use FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center to find out which zone the property falls in (such as Zone AE, VE, or X). Some zones have higher flood risk than others, and this affects everything from insurance costs to building restrictions.2. Understand the Building Codes for Your Zone





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
          
          
            Panama City Beach photo by me
          
        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Each flood zone has specific rules about how and where you can build. For example, you may be required to elevate the structure on pilings, use flood-resistant materials, or use flood vents for spaces in high risk areas. Knowing the codes upfront helps you plan smarter and avoid costly surprises later.3. Get an Elevation CertificateAn elevation certificate shows how high the land sits compared to the base flood elevation in your area. This document is crucial for determining your flood risk, designing your home properly, and getting an accurate quote for flood insurance.4. Budget for Flood InsuranceFlood insurance is often mandatory in high-risk zones and it can be EXPENSIVE, especially right now. Rates are based on your flood zone, the elevation of your home, and other factors. Make sure to get a few quotes and include insurance in your monthly or annual homeownership budget.5. Talk to the NeighborsNo one knows the land like the locals. Ask nearby homeowners about recent storms, flooding patterns, or drainage issues. You may learn something not listed on the official reports, like areas that tend to pool with water, erosion concerns, or how long water typically takes to recede.In Summary:Buying land in a flood zone isn’t a deal-breaker, it just takes extra planning. With the right information, preparation, and supporting team, you can still create the coastal home of your dreams. We’re navigating the same journey with our build at Summer on the Coast, and we’re here to share what we learn every step of the way.Follow along as we build a home in a flood zone, surrounded by nature, with all the beauty and challenges that come with it.All the sunshine,





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
         ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jun 2025 03:00:08 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Smart, Things, Before, Buying, Flood, Zone</media:keywords>
</item>

<item>
<title>Rainy Day or Double Red Flags? Here’s What to Do in (&amp;amp; around) Panama City Beach</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/rainy-day-or-double-red-flags-heres-what-to-do-in-around-panama-city-beach</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/rainy-day-or-double-red-flags-heres-what-to-do-in-around-panama-city-beach</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
          
          
            Russell-Fields City Pier (Pier Park)  photo by me
          
        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  We love our sunny beach days, but coastal life comes with its fair share of rainy weather and red flag warnings. When the Gulf is off limits or storms roll in, it’s good to have a backup plan that keeps the fun going. 





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
          
          
            May 2023 on Panama City Beach photo by me
          
        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Please always reference the beach warning flag system before going into the Gulf of America. It is never recommended to swim when red flags are flying and double red flags mean the water is closed to the public. Violation can lead to arrest or fine so please heed these warnings. Rip currents are comon and can be deadly. Consider signing up for flag alerts by texting PCBFLAGS to 888777.Here are our favorite things to do around Panama City and Panama City Beach when the beach isn’t an option:1. Head to Pier ParkEven when it’s drizzling, Pier Park has indoor fun:The Grand IMAX Theatre – Catch the newest releases in a cozy theater.Dave &amp; Buster’s – Play games, grab food, and stay entertained for hours.Shopping &amp; Treats – Pop into boutiques, grab fudge, or sip coffee and people-watch.2. Take a Swing at TopGolf Slated to open June 23, 2025, TopGolf offers covered, all-weather fun for families, groups, or date nights. TopGolf is a brand-new, high-tech golf entertainment venue located right next to Pier Park. It offers a full-service bar and restaurant with 74 climate-controlled hitting bays. No need to be a great golfer, this game is beginner-friendly and fun for all.3. Explore St. Andrews State Park &amp; Kiddie Pool AreaSometimes called a tidal pool, this is a naturally formed, sheltered lagoon created by the park’s jetty structure. It’s protected from waves however sea life is still present. It’s a great place for wading, snorkeling, and even beginner scuba. Entry is $8 per vehicle and is open from 8 am until sundown, year-round. Amenities include: restrooms, picnic areas, a concession/snack &amp; beach-gear stand, hiking trails, boat ramp, fishing piers, campground, bike rentals, and playground.4. Slide into Kingdom Splash Fest Panama CityA floating inflatable water park and ninja-style obstacle course located right on Beach Drive in historic downtown Panama City. It’s the area’s first of its kind combining fun inflatables with water, jumps, slides, and balance challenges. You must reserve a time slot, sign a waiver, and availability may depend on weather. 5. Take the Shell Island Ferry The Shell Island Ferry (AKA shuttle) is the official water transport serving St. Andrews State Park and undeveloped Shell Island- a 7 mile barrier island famed for its pristine, white sand beaches and vibrant wildlife. Departs from Adventures at Sea Marina with free parking available. Runs every hour roughly 9am- 3pm outbound with returns continuing until 5 pm. The ride is approximately 15 minutes. Exact schedule is posted daily online at the park website. Remember the Shell Island has no amenities (no restrooms, shade, trash cans, or rental gear) so be sure to bring everything you may need for your trip.6. Book a Boating or Fishing ExcursionPanama City Beach offers a plethora of excursions that the whole family is sure to enjoy. Pontoon and boat rentals are available at Treasure Island Marina. Many private boat charters and tours are available daily that specialize in dolphin-watching, snorkeling, and sunset cruises. The area is known for great fishing and there are many inshore and offshore fishing charters available which are often all-inclusive- no gear needed. The West Bay area also offers airboat guided tours providing the perfect mix of speed, wildlife, and Southern charm for an unforgettable outing. 7. Explore WonderWorksThis upside-down building is packed with family-friendly fun. Inside, you’ll find interactive science exhibits, virtual reality games, a ropes course, laser tag, and more—all indoors and perfect for a rainy day.8. Bowl, Skate, and Play at Rock’it LanesA local favorite! Rock’it Lanes offers:BowlingAn arcadeRoller skatingA café with surprisingly great foodIt’s a solid all-ages option when the weather keeps you inside.9. Visit the Man in th ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jun 2025 03:00:08 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Rainy, Day, Double, Red, Flags, Here’s, What, around, Panama, City, Beach</media:keywords>
</item>

<item>
<title>5 Things To Do Before You Hire a Builder</title>
<link>https://coastalandleisure.com/5-things-to-do-before-you-hire-a-builder</link>
<guid>https://coastalandleisure.com/5-things-to-do-before-you-hire-a-builder</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Planning Your Custom Home With ConfidenceBuilding your dream home is one of the most exciting and rewarding projects you can take on—but it all starts with the right builder. Before you sign any contracts or start clearing land, there are a few important steps you should take to make sure you’re prepared, confident, and in control of your project.





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
          
          
            Our coastal cottage rendering- coming soon 2025
          
        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  Here are my top five things to do before you hire a builder:1. Define Your VisionBefore you bring in a builder, it’s important to know what you want. Do you picture a cozy coastal cottage? A modern farmhouse with clean lines and open spaces? Spend time gathering inspiration from Pinterest, Instagram, magazines, and even homes in your area. Create a mood board or folder with your favorite exteriors, layouts, and finishes. The more specific your vision, the easier it will be to communicate it—and the more accurate your quotes will be.





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  2. Set a Realistic BudgetKnow your numbers. Be honest with yourself about what you can afford—and build in a buffer for the unexpected. Include the cost of your lot, site prep (like tree removal or grading), permits, architectural plans, utilities, and design upgrades. Don’t forget to plan for landscaping and furnishing your home after the build. Having a clear budget helps guide your decisions from the very beginning and allows you to avoid surprises later.3. Decide How Involved You Want to BeAre you planning to hire a general contractor who handles everything, or do you want to take a more hands-on approach as an owner-builder or even do some of the labor yourself? Some homeowners love being deeply involved, while others prefer to step back and let professionals run the show. Be realistic about your time, stress tolerance, and willingness to manage subcontractors and schedules. Your role will shape the type of builder or team you need to hire.





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
          
          
            Our custom build TN cabin (est 2023)
          
        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  4. Research Your BuildersNot all builders are created equal. Start with local referrals—ask neighbors, lenders, or even your architect/draftsman who they recommend. Then dive deep. Check licensing, insurance, Better Business Bureau ratings, and online reviews. Look at their past projects, both online and in person if possible. Make sure they’ve built homes in the style and scale you’re planning. A builder might be excellent at coastal luxury homes but not a great fit for your more modest farmhouse.





















  
  














































  

    
  
    

      

      
        
          
        
        

        
          
            
          
            
                
                
                
                
                
                
                
                

            
          
        
          
        

        
          
          
            Matt and Karlos (our finishing carpenter) in 2019 
          
        
      
        
      

    
  


  





  5. Make a List of Questions &amp; Interview Your BuildersOnce you have a shortlist, schedule interviews. This is your chance to ask everything—from timelines and communication styles to how they handle change orders or material delays. Some key questions include:What’s your estimated timeline for a home this size?Do you work with the same crew/subs consistently?How often will I receive updates during construction?How do you handle unexpected costs or plan changes?You’re not just hiring a contractor—you’re choosing a long-term partner for your dream home. The more ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 May 2025 03:00:28 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Noubikko - Lifestyle Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Things, Before, You, Hire, Builder</media:keywords>
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