We are starting down the path to building a small retreat on a coastal island in Georgia. I am interested in reading and researching over the next 24 months so I can get educated. The site has a number of unique design and construction constraints:
No bridge to the island. All equipment and material must arrive by barge. All labor must arrive and leave daily by boat.
Must be built on piers/poles. In the event of a hurricane there will be water. Soil is sand. Must plan for hurricane wind conditions. To the East is 3 miles of marsh and then an opening where the sound meets the Atlantic.
Narrow lot (100') overlooks tidal river and marsh looking west northwest.
Not interested in fancy or big. Perfection is a "sweep the sand out the front door" place. Good use of space that "feels" right is crucial.
Architecture that fits the region is important.
I am interested in advice on good books to read on subjects from design considerations and plans to tech stuff like hurricane building and pier foundation options. Finding the "right" books (other than Not so Big House) that address the needs of this costal area have not been easy to find.
Has anyone had good experience with architects, structural engineers, or buildiers in the Savannah/Brunswick GA areas?
Are there any modular home companies that serve costal areas and designs? Barging modular sections might be more cost effective than ferrying labor every day.
I'm sorry I don't have specific suggestions. There are lots of modular homes places now -- and more every day. Keep looking. For shape of house for the site -- one place to make sure to check is what the Native Americans lived in before Europeans came -- it is probably well suited in shape for the weather and conditions of the area. You don't have to build that, but let the adaptations to conditions they used influence your design.
Posts: 40 | Location: Northern California | Registered: 07 January 2008
