When you’re sitting on prime waterfront property but need more space, sometimes the only way to go is up.
That’s exactly what happened with this ambitious renovation project in Severna Park’s Cypress Creek neighborhood, where Tomas Bros Construction is transforming an 1800 square foot home into a 4200 square foot residence.
The Challenge: Building on What’s Already There
“The hardest part is the engineering,” explains Jason Doyle, outside sales rep from Johnson Lumber. “It’s hard to see what’s all covered up and been done previously. The contractor and engineer assume certain conditions, but it’s never the case.”
This renovation, which began in April and is still ongoing, showcases the complexity of major addition projects. While new construction follows predictable patterns, tying existing structures to new additions requires careful planning and often, creative problem-solving when reality doesn’t match the blueprints.
Materials Built for Waterfront Living
Given the home’s location on the water, material selection was essential to the renovation.
“The homeowner wanted trim and siding that would hold up to the elements of being on the water,” Doyle notes. The project features Boral True Exterior Trim and James Hardie siding, both industry-leading products designed to withstand harsh marine environments.
The structural components came from trusted sources: Louisiana Pacific provided the framing lumber, while Jarretsville Truss Company supplied the engineered trusses needed to support the home’s dramatic expansion.
A Growing Trend in Waterfront Communities
This Severna Park project reflects a broader trend in the housing market. “With the way interest rates rose the last few years and the limited waterfront inventory, you are seeing a large increase in remodeling smaller homes into what we call McMansions,” Doyle said.
Rather than moving or building new, homeowners are choosing to maximize their existing waterfront lots by expanding upward and outward within allowable limits.
Advice for Similar Projects
For contractors or homeowners considering similar renovations, Doyle offers practical insights: “If anyone is thinking of doing any remodeling project, go ahead and add 10-20% more than what you originally budget for the project. There is always something that will go wrong or wasn’t planned for.”
In addition to a more accommodating budget, it’s helpful to be realistic when it comes to the timeline. “These projects from start to finish can take over a year, and the slowest part is the permitting process with Anne Arundel County. They are extremely slow.”
The Johnson Lumber Partnership
Projects of this scale require reliable material supply and knowledgeable support. Johnson Lumber’s role extends beyond simple delivery, providing the expertise and product selection that ensure waterfront renovations can withstand both the elements and the test of time. Need help getting your next project off the ground? Get in touch with us here, or stop by either of our lumber yards to get started.