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:
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.
Our Home Addition Diaries: Final update before the big reveal
Still waiting on floors.
Furniture is sitting on moving blankets over concrete.
I’m still working from the hallway. 😂
But… we’re finally living in the new spaces, and they already feel incredible.
✨ Guest room ready just in time for company
✨ Wallpaper going into the guest bath this week
✨ Final details coming together
Next update: the full reveal + photo shoot.
We’re SO close.
👉 Read the latest update at the link in bio.
For a long time, homes were designed to look right.
Now, they’re being designed to FEEL right.
2026 is all about moving away from safe, minimal spaces and toward interiors that are layered, expressive, and personal. Think bold colour, richer materials, and pieces that actually mean something.
The common thread: Homes that reflect the people who live in them.
Save this for your next renovation or redesign.
#InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDesignIdeas #HomeInspiration #InteriorStyling #ModernHomeDesign #HomeRenovation #CustomHomes #DesignTrends2026
Can`t wait to bring this stunning shingle style home to life in Fernandina Beach. #fernandinabeach #thisiscustom
Everyone’s waiting.
But what if now is actually the sweet spot?
The market feels quieter right now… and that’s not a bad thing. Because building a custom home was never about chasing the market. It’s about creating a space that fits your life—not just today, but years from now.
Think:
✔️ Multi-generational living
✔️ Spaces designed around your routines
✔️ A home that finally feels like you
If you’re exploring the idea of building a custom home in Northeast Florida, this period may offer a prime opportunity, and we’d love to see how we can finally bring your dream home to life.
#CustomHome #FloridaLiving #DreamHome #HomeDesign #CustomHome
10 years ago, our business was just an idea and a belief that we could build something meaningful.
Fast forward 10 years…
And it’s not just the homes that matter:
It’s the people we’ve met along the way.
The families who trusted us.
The moments we got to be part of—big and small.
Because behind every home is a new beginning and a leap of faith.
Being part of that never gets old.
Here’s to 10 years of building homes and being part of the lives that happen inside them.
#10Years #CustomHomes #CustomHomeBuilder
10 years ago, John Merrill Homes became official.
What followed was new homes, lessons, risks, and a lot of figuring it out along the way.
Swipe through a few projects that shaped our journey along the way.
#10Years #HomeBuilder #BehindTheBuild #CustomHomes #CustomHomeBuilder
