Outside, slab prep continued, and we built a sturdier temp wall to keep dogs in and workers out of the backyard.
Inside, we set up the temporary living/dining zone, hung the TV temporarily, and wrapped a full wall in Christmas gift paper.
Yes, there’s a time-lapse video.
Highlights:
Our home addition added 1,024 square feet AND gave the exterior a whole new look.
Now it`s time to see the result!
#JohnMerrillHomes #OurHomeAdditionDiaries #HomeAddition #ExteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #HomeRenovation #DreamHome #DesignBuild
T’S FINALLY HERE: THE BIG REVEAL!
Our home addition is DONE, and we love our home more than ever.
Now, after taking you behind the scenes through all the mess, decisions, surprises, and progress…
Come inside. 👀
The full before + after reveal is live at the link in our bio!
#JohnMerrillHomes #OurHomeAdditionDiaries #HomeAddition #HomeRenovation #BeforeAndAfter #DreamHome #InteriorDesign #DesignBuild #JacksonvilleHomes
Are you building a custom home?
A few smart decisions early on can keep your project running much more smoothly.
Our biggest tip:
👉 Make as many decisions as possible before construction begins.
Changing layouts, finishes or fixtures halfway through a build might seem like a small adjustment, but it can affect engineering, trades, inspections and timelines.
What does your dream home look like?
✔️ A showstopping kitchen
✔️ Indoor-outdoor living
✔️ Spa-inspired bathrooms
✔️ Waterfront views
✔️ Spaces designed around the way you live
Explore our Inspiration Gallery on our website (link in bio) to see custom homes, design details, and room-by-room ideas that can help shape your vision.
#DreamHome #LuxuryHomeDesign #CustomHomes #HomeBuilding
The best floor plan is the one designed around the way you actually live.
If you start there, you’ll make better decisions, avoid costly compromises, and end up with a home that continues to serve your family for years to come.
And if you need help doing just that, that’s what we’re here for!
#CustomHome #LuxuryHomes #HomeDesign #FloorPlanDesign #DesignBuild #JacksonvilleHomes #HomeInspiration
The trends we`re loving for 2026 are all about creating homes that feel warm, welcoming, and beautifully personal.
Our FREE 2026 Interior Design Trends Lookbook is packed with inspiration to help you refresh your space or start dreaming about something bigger.
Created by Dana Merrill, Principal Designer at John Merrill Homes, it`s your guide to the design details shaping luxury homes in 2026.
Click the link in our bio for your free download.
Thinking about building, renovating, or buying a home in 2026?
Here`s what we`re seeing behind the scenes:
✔️ Buyers are more cautious
✔️ Construction costs aren`t dropping
✔️ Renovations are booming
✔️ Move-in-ready homes are in high demand
✔️ Quality matters more than ever
Instead of the frenzy of recent years, homeowners are asking smarter questions about value, timing, and long-term investment.
If you’re considering a custom build, major renovation, or preparing to sell in today’s market, the best thing you can do is work with professionals who understand the realities of construction costs, timelines, and buyer expectations in 2026.
That`s what we`re here for, so don`t hesitate to get in touch.
What if your dream home could work for three generations?
✔️ Grandparents close by
✔️ Built-in support for ageing parents
✔️ More quality family time
✔️ Greater financial flexibility
✔️ Spaces that grow and evolve with your family
From private guest suites to flexible bonus rooms and outdoor living spaces, smart design helps every generation feel at home.
Thinking about building or renovating for your family`s future?
Get in touch to chat about your multigenerational home plans.
The future living room of this private lakefront horse ranch in St Augustine is already making a statement.
This incredible space will feature three exposed timber trusses, with stained wood paneling wrapping the walls and ceilings to create warmth, texture, and timeless character.
We’re closing in on completion of the rough trades, while finish materials are being finalized and procured.
Outside, renovations to the existing dock are nearly complete, and work is about to begin on the second dock and additional retaining wall around the lake.
This one is going to be pretty amazing 👏
#LuxuryHome #HorseRanch #LakefrontLiving #CustomHome #StAugustine #HomeInProgress
We may be (very) biased, but Northeast Florida offers many incredible places to call home.
Swipe to see where we build.
#CustomHome #NEFlorida #Florida #CustomBuild
Your home may not be too small.
It may just not function the way you live anymore.
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make with additions is adding square footage without fixing the flow.
Before planning an addition, ask:
Where does daily life feel frustrating?
Which spaces do you avoid or outgrow most often?
Because the best additions don’t just add space; they make everyday life feel easier.
#HomeAddition #HomeRenovation #CustomHomes #FloridaLiving #InteriorDesign #JacksonvilleHomes #JohnMerrillHomes
🛠️ Under construction:
A little coastal Connecticut inspiration in Fernandina Beach.
This custom home is bringing a fresh architectural perspective to the area, blending classic East Coast coastal style with the craftsmanship and livability John Merrill Homes is known for.
Watch this space as we head into the finishing touches.
