BUILDING THE COASTAL HOME OF TOMORROW ON ONO ISLAND
By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
"Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon."
When I talk with homeowners who dream of building on Ono Island, I often look at house plans to help visualize what’s possible. Recently, a client showed me a 3-story coastal contemporary design with over 4,600 square feet, an elevator, and expansive outdoor living space. It’s a great example of the type of home that captures the coastal lifestyle while showcasing what buyers are often looking for in 2025 and 2026.
Choosing the Best Lot
For a home of this scale, the right lot can make all the difference. Waterfront lots along big water streets such as Ono Boulevard or Shoalwater are ideal for designs that take advantage of views, deeper water access, and boating amenities. Interior lots can also be a smart choice — pairing a thoughtful home plan with outdoor features like a pool, outdoor kitchen, and lush landscaping creates a resort-like atmosphere without needing to be directly on the water.
When it comes to resale, wide waterfrontage and navigable water access remain some of the strongest value-holders on Ono Island.
Foundations, Flood Zones, and Coastal Building
With Ono Island’s unique setting, construction always begins with an understanding of flood zones and elevation. Many properties fall into AE or VE flood zones, making elevated slabs or piling foundations common approaches. Increasingly, ICF (Insulated Concrete Form) construction is being chosen for its storm resistance and energy performance.
As one neighbor recently shared with me, “What I love about building here is having choices — from traditional block to newer systems like ICF — all designed to work with our coastal environment.”
Features Buyers are Leaning Toward in 2025 and 2026
In today’s market, outdoor living is top of mind. Pools with tanning ledges, covered kitchens, shaded dining, and even outdoor showers are frequently incorporated. These features extend the living space and make the home more versatile.
Inside, features such as three-car garages, golf cart parking, and flexible storage rooms remain popular. Specialty spaces like fishing reel rooms, hobby areas, or wine storage add character and functionality. Elevators are increasingly common in multi-story homes, making each floor easily accessible.
Energy Efficiency and Comfort
Energy efficiency continues to play a big role in coastal homebuilding. Many buyers are looking at options such as spray foam insulation, impact-rated windows, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and even solar-prepped roofs. These features help keep operating costs in check and provide comfort year-round.
“Buyers want homes that feel as comfortable in August as they do in January — and the right efficiency features make that possible.”
The Building Process
The process on Ono Island begins with lot selection, then moves through Architectural Control Committee (ACC) review, soil testing, foundation planning, and design approval. From there, everything from insulation to outdoor amenity planning is personalized to fit the homeowner’s vision.
What excites me about homes like the 4,600+ square-foot plan is that they bring together coastal resiliency and lifestyle-driven details. These homes often reflect the best of both worlds: modern conveniences and thoughtful design that works with our Gulf environment.
Final Thoughts
Homes of this caliber are often seen with expansive outdoor living spaces, energy-efficient features, and specialty rooms that enhance everyday living. Whether large or small, the focus is always on creating a home that fits the way people live on Ono Island — blending durability with comfort and lifestyle.
If you’re considering building or buying on Ono Island, I’d be happy to share my experience as both a homeowner and real estate advisor here. Visit www.searchthegulf.com to explore current lots and homes available on Ono Island.
When it comes to finding the home of your dreams in a fast-paced market, knowing about new listings as soon as they are available is part of our competitive advantage.Sign up to see new listings in an area or specific community. Contact Meredith with any questions you may have.
#searchthegulf #meredithamon #becausewelivehere
Ono Island Homes & Land for Sale – Luxury Waterfront Real Estate in Orange Beach Alabama
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