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:
The hardest part of a home renovation?
Knowing what you don’t know.
There are dozens of decisions to make before the first wall comes down, and even more once work begins.
What should you budget for?
When should you choose your renovation team?
How do you prepare to live through construction?
What should you check before you consider the project complete?
A little preparation can save you a lot of stress later.
That’s why we created our FREE Printable Home Renovation Checklist, covering what to think about before, during, and after your renovation.
Comment "RENO" to get your free checklist.
Happy Friday. Working out some trim details this morning. #carpentry #craftsmanship #planfirst
They say arches are in! We have arches for you! The classic style of this Fernandina Beach marsh front home will be stunning! #fernandinabeachrealtor #thisiscustom #fernandinabeach #flexmoulding
Consider this your sign to start saving ideas for your dream home.
The kitchen where everyone naturally gathers...
A bathroom that feels like your own private spa...
Outdoor spaces made for Northeast Florida living...
Explore our portfolio (link in bio) for inspiration from homes we’ve brought to life, then start imagining what we could create for you.
#JohnMerrillHomes #CustomHomes #HomeInspiration #NortheastFloridaHomes #LuxuryHomeDesign #CustomHomeBuilder #FloridaHomes
You saw the months of dust, decisions, construction, and anticipation...
Now COME INSIDE. 👀
Every space was designed around how our family lives now, and how we expect life to change as our kids grow up.
And yes, there are a LOT of details we’ve been waiting to show you.
Check out the full interior reveal!
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.
