When a home is situated in a designated flood plain, the dream of a major remodel or expansion often hits a legal brick wall. Local regulations frequently prohibit new construction or significant renovations in these high-risk zones.
That was exactly the challenge for this stunning Atlanta estate. The solution? Don’t just build out—build up.
The Challenge: Construction Bans in Flood Zones
The original structure was restricted by strict flood plain ordinances. No permits could be issued for remodeling or new construction because the home’s elevation didn’t meet safety requirements. To save the home and unlock its potential, we had to physically move it out of the flood zone.
The Sculac Solution: The Big Lift
Sculac Homes executed a precision structural elevation to “de-map” the house from the flood plain. We stripped the home to its frame and began the lift.
- The Scale: The home spans an impressive 119 feet in length, requiring a synchronized hydraulic lifting system to maintain structural integrity.
- The Height: We elevated the entire footprint 5 feet off the ground.
- The Result: By raising the finish-floor elevation above the flood level, the property was no longer legally restricted by flood plain construction bans.
From Bare Studs to Luxury Living
Once the home was safely secured at its new height, the “impossible” became possible. With the flood plain restrictions cleared, we began a comprehensive luxury reconstruction.
The final result (pictured above) is a masterclass in French Provincial style, featuring:
- A heightened architectural profile that adds to the home’s curb appeal.
- Total peace of mind with modern drainage and a foundation built to withstand the elements.
- High-end finishes that would have been legally impossible to install at the previous elevation.
“At Sculac Homes, we don’t just see obstacles; we see engineering opportunities. Lifting a 119-foot home isn’t just about height—it’s about reclaiming the value of your property.”