When you’re ready to build your luxury custom home in Central Florida, you’ll face a decision that goes beyond marble countertops or smart home technology—it’s all about location. As premier custom home builders in the Orlando area, we’ve helped countless families choose between two of Central Florida’s most coveted settings: pristine lakefront properties and prestigious golf course communities.

While both options offer their own unique appeal, the right choice depends on your lifestyle, priorities, and long-term vision for your dream home. Let’s explore what each setting brings to the table and help you determine which might be perfect for your family.

The Allure of Lakefront Living

Central Florida’s lakefront properties offer something truly special: direct water access and ever-changing views that transform with each sunrise. When you build on a lakefront lot, you’re not just getting a home—you’re investing in a daily dose of waterfront tranquility.

Privacy and Natural Beauty

Lakefront homes typically offer more privacy than their golf course counterparts. With water as your backyard neighbor instead of other homeowners, you’ll enjoy a natural buffer that can’t be developed. This translates to long-term protection of your views and your investment, including dramatic sunrise and sunset vistas that frame each day with breathtaking beauty.

Waterfront Activities

For families who love boating, fishing, or simply enjoying peaceful water views, lakefront living is hard to beat. Many of our lakefront custom home clients incorporate boat docks, waterfront decks, and floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize their connection to the water.

Resale Value Advantages

Waterfront properties in Central Florida consistently hold their value well. The combination of limited lakefront inventory and high demand creates a strong foundation for long-term appreciation.

Considerations for Lakefront Building

Building on lakefront property does come with unique considerations. Our team works closely with clients to navigate flood zone requirements, setback regulations, and environmental considerations that come with waterfront construction. These factors can affect both design options and construction costs.

The Golf Course Lifestyle

Golf course communities represent the epitome of resort-style living in Central Florida. These master-planned neighborhoods offer more than just stunning fairway views—they provide a complete lifestyle package.

Community and Amenities

Golf course communities excel at creating social connections and offering world-class amenities. From championship golf courses to clubhouses, tennis courts, and community pools, these neighborhoods are designed for an active, social lifestyle.

Maintained Beauty

Your “backyard” is professionally maintained year-round. The manicured fairways and landscaping provide consistently beautiful views without any maintenance responsibility on your part.

Home Design Flexibility

Golf course lots often offer more flexibility in home placement and design. Without the environmental restrictions that come with waterfront properties, you may have more freedom to maximize square footage and create the exact floor plan you envision.

Strong Community Standards

Golf course communities typically maintain strict architectural guidelines that protect property values. While this means working within established parameters, it also ensures your investment is surrounded by homes of similar quality and standards.

Making the Right Choice for Your Family

Consider Your Daily Lifestyle

Ask yourself: Do you see yourself starting each morning with coffee overlooking peaceful lake waters, or would you prefer the option to walk out your back door for an early round of golf? Both settings offer tranquility, but they cater to different personalities and daily routines.

Think Long-Term

Consider how your needs might evolve over time. Golf course communities often offer more built-in social opportunities, which can be valuable as family dynamics change. Lakefront properties provide timeless natural beauty that appeals across all life stages.

Evaluate Your Entertaining Style

If you love hosting large gatherings, golf course communities often provide additional venues like clubhouses for events. If you prefer intimate gatherings with stunning natural backdrops, lakefront properties create an unbeatable setting.

The Hardwick GC Advantage

As Central Florida’s premier luxury custom home builders, we’ve designed and built exceptional homes in both lakefront and golf course settings. Our experience with local regulations, environmental considerations, and community requirements means we can help you maximize your chosen location’s potential.

Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil beauty of lakefront living or the active luxury of golf course communities, our team brings the expertise to create a home that perfectly complements your chosen setting. We understand that location is just the beginning—it’s how we design and build your home within that location that creates something truly extraordinary.

Ready to Choose Your Perfect Setting?

The choice between lakefront and golf course living is deeply personal, and there’s no wrong answer. Both settings offer the opportunity to create the luxury custom home you’ve been dreaming about in beautiful Central Florida.

Our team is here to help you evaluate properties, understand the unique considerations of each setting, and design a home that maximizes your investment and your daily enjoyment. Whether you’re imagining morning coffee with lake views or sunset cocktails overlooking the 18th green, we’re ready to make your vision a reality.

Ready to start your Central Florida custom home journey? Contact Hardwick GC today to discuss your lakefront or golf course home project. Let’s build something extraordinary together.

The post Lake-Front vs. Golf Course: Where to Build Your Dream Home in Central Florida appeared first on Hardwick General Contracting.

After building custom luxury homes in Orlando for years, we’ve learned that the magic happens when you can’t tell where your living room ends and your backyard begins. It’s not just about slapping a deck on the back of your house—it’s about creating spaces that actually make you want to spend time outside (even in July, trust us on this one).

Why Central Florida is Perfect for Indoor-Outdoor Living

Here’s the thing about our climate—it’s almost too good to be true. While people up north are dealing with snow and ice, we’re grilling steaks in December and swimming in February. But designing for year-round outdoor living here isn’t just about the sunshine. You’ve got to think about those afternoon thunderstorms, the summer humidity, and yes, occasionally a hurricane.

The best outdoor spaces we design work whether it’s a perfect 75-degree day or one of those sticky August afternoons when you still want to be outside but need some relief.

Creating Comfort in Every Season

We always design covered areas that give you options. Maybe it’s a deep lanai that keeps you dry during those daily summer storms, or a pergola that provides just enough shade for morning coffee. The goal is making sure you can use your outdoor spaces pretty much every day of the year.

The Architecture That Makes It Work

Those Disappearing Glass Walls Everyone’s Talking About

You know those Instagram-worthy homes where the entire back wall just… disappears? That’s not just for show. When you can open up a 20-foot span of glass, your living room literally becomes part of your backyard. We’ve had clients tell us it completely changed how they live in their homes.

Picture this: you’re hosting a dinner party, and half your guests are technically “outside” around the pool while the other half are “inside” at the kitchen island, but everyone’s part of the same conversation. That’s the kind of flow we’re talking about.

Flooring That Doesn’t Stop at the Door

One trick that never fails to impress people? When your living room tile flows right out onto the patio without missing a beat. It makes everything feel bigger and more connected. Plus, it just looks really, really good.

Ceilings That Keep Going

We like to extend interior ceiling treatments outside too. When your family room’s beamed ceiling continues out over the outdoor dining area, it creates this seamless, sophisticated look that says “this was planned by someone who knows what they’re doing.”

Outdoor Kitchens That Actually Get Used

Let’s talk about outdoor kitchens for a minute. We’ve all seen those elaborate setups that look amazing but clearly never get touched. That’s not what we’re going for.

The outdoor kitchens that our clients actually love are the ones that make sense for how they really live. Maybe that’s a fantastic grill setup with a prep sink and mini-fridge. Or maybe it’s a full kitchen that can handle Thanksgiving dinner while keeping all that heat outside where it belongs.

Entertainment Spaces People Actually Hang Out In

The best outdoor entertainment areas feel like outdoor living rooms. Built-in seating, maybe a fireplace for those few chilly nights we get, and definitely a spot for the TV so you don’t miss the game. These spaces get used all the time because they’re comfortable and functional, not just pretty.

Making the Most of What Central Florida Gives You

Windows That Work With Our Weather

Smart window placement is everything here. You want those gorgeous views, but you also don’t want your house to turn into a greenhouse. We position windows to capture winter sunshine and block summer heat—it’s all about working with our climate instead of against it.

Corner Windows That Wow

When you remove a corner and replace it with glass, the view becomes the star of the room. Whether you’re looking out at a lake, golf course, or just beautifully landscaped gardens, corner windows create those “wow” moments that make a house feel special.

The Reality of Building in Florida

Hurricane Prep That Doesn’t Look Like Hurricane Prep

Nobody wants their dream home to look like a bunker, but we take storm protection seriously. Impact glass, smart structural design, proper drainage—all the safety stuff that lets you sleep well during hurricane season, but looks like luxury, not fear.

Dealing With Humidity (Because It’s Real)

Good ventilation design isn’t just nice to have here—it’s essential. Cross-breezes, proper material choices, smart air flow planning—all of this keeps your home comfortable and prevents the humidity issues that can really mess with your quality of life.

The Landscape Connection

Plants That Actually Survive Here

We love working with Florida-native plants because they thrive in our climate and look fantastic year-round. Plus, they’re low maintenance, which means more time enjoying your outdoor spaces and less time fighting with your sprinkler system.

Privacy Without Walls

Strategic landscaping can give you privacy without making your space feel closed in. Living screens of bamboo or palms create separation while keeping that open, flowing feel that makes Central Florida living special.

Why This Matters for Your Daily Life

Here’s what we’ve learned from our clients: when indoor-outdoor design is done right, it changes how you live. You find yourself having morning coffee outside more often. Dinner parties naturally spill onto the patio. Kids (and adults) spend more time away from screens because being outside actually feels good.

It’s not just about property value or resale (though both are great side benefits). It’s about creating a home that makes you happy to be there, that takes advantage of this incredible place we get to call home.

Technology That Just Works

Smart home systems can extend outside too—lighting that comes on automatically at sunset, speakers that let you move seamlessly from inside to outside, even automated shade systems that adjust throughout the day. The best technology is the kind you don’t have to think about.

Benefits of Concealed Roll Screens for Florida Custom Homes

1. Enhanced Outdoor Comfort
   Concealed roll screens allow homeowners to enjoy their lanais without the nuisance of insects, intense sun, or debris. They can be deployed when needed and hidden when not, preserving the open-air aesthetic while offering protection.

2. UV and Heat Protection
   Solar-grade roll screens block significant amounts of UV rays and heat, making outdoor spaces more comfortable during Florida’s hot summers. This also contributes to energy efficiency by reducing indoor cooling loads.

3. Durability and Longevity
   High-performance materials like super-strength polyester and pet-resistant mesh offer tear resistance and withstand Florida’s harsh climate. These screens are ideal for homes with pets or active families.

4. Discreet Design
   Because they retract into concealed housings, roll screens maintain the architectural integrity of custom homes. This is especially valuable in high-end builds where aesthetics are paramount.

5. Flexible Use
   Homeowners can choose when to deploy the screens—during peak sun hours, bug season, or for privacy—making them a versatile solution for outdoor living.

Creating Your Perfect Indoor-Outdoor Home

The bottom line is this: Central Florida’s climate is a gift, and your home should help you enjoy it. Whether you want a quiet retreat where you can read by the pool or a party-ready space that can handle 50 of your closest friends, the right design makes it all possible.

Creating Your Perfect Indoor-Outdoor Home

The bottom line is this: Central Florida’s climate is a gift, and your home should help you enjoy it. Whether you want a quiet retreat where you can read by the pool or a party-ready space that can handle 50 of your closest friends, the right design makes it all possible.

We’ve been doing this long enough to know that every family is different. Some want that resort feel with outdoor kitchens and multiple seating areas. Others prefer simpler spaces that just happen to flow beautifully from inside to outside. The key is understanding how you actually want to live and designing spaces that support that lifestyle.

Ready to talk about how indoor-outdoor living could work for your family? We’d love to show you some of the spaces we’ve created and talk about what might work best for your lifestyle and your lot. Let’s build something that makes you excited to come home every day.

The post Orlando Luxury Home Design: Maximizing Indoor-Outdoor Living in Central Florida appeared first on Hardwick General Contracting.

At Hardwick General Contracting, we’ve walked countless Orlando families through major renovations, and we know it can feel overwhelming. But here’s the thing: when done right, a luxury home remodeling project is actually pretty exciting. Let us walk you through what to expect.

First, We Dream Together (Then We Get Realistic)

Every great renovation starts with a conversation that usually begins something like, “We love our neighborhood, but this kitchen is from 1987 and the master bathroom makes us claustrophobic.” We get it. Homes have a way of showing their age, especially here in Central Florida where styles and living preferences have changed dramatically over the past couple of decades.

During our initial meetings, we’ll dig into how you actually live in your space. Do you cook every night or just reheat takeout? Do you entertain large groups or prefer intimate dinners? Are you empty nesters ready to splurge on that spa bathroom, or do you have teenagers who need their own space?

We’ll also take a hard look at your home’s structure. Some walls can go, others definitely cannot. Some electrical systems need complete overhauls, while others just need updates. We’ll give you the straight story about what’s possible, what’s practical, and what might require a bigger budget than you initially planned.

The Paperwork Nobody Wants to Talk About (But Everybody Needs)

Let’s get the boring stuff out of the way: permits. Orlando has specific requirements for renovation work, especially when you’re doing structural changes, electrical upgrades, or additions. The good news? We handle all of this for you.

We’ve been working with local building departments for years, so we know who to call, what forms to file, and how long everything takes. While you’re picking out tile and lighting fixtures, we’re making sure all the behind-the-scenes stuff is taken care of. You’ll have enough decisions to make without worrying about permit applications.

Design Meetings That Actually Matter

This is where the magic happens. We’ll bring together architects, interior designers, and specialists to create a plan that makes sense for your lifestyle and your budget. These aren’t just pretty pictures—we’re talking about how traffic flows through your house, where you’ll actually put your keys when you walk in, and whether that gorgeous kitchen island you saw on Pinterest will work with your ceiling height.

We’ve learned that the best renovations happen when everyone’s on the same page from the beginning. That means regular check-ins, clear timelines, and honest conversations about costs. No surprises, no “we’ll figure it out later” moments.

Living Through the Chaos (Because Yes, It Gets Messy)

Let’s be real: whole home renovations are disruptive. There will be dust, noise, and probably a few weeks where your kitchen consists of a microwave and a coffee maker. But we’ve gotten pretty good at making this as painless as possible.

We’ll work with you to plan the renovation phases so you can still live in your home (if that’s what you want), or help coordinate temporary housing if a complete move-out makes more sense. We protect your belongings, work around your schedule as much as possible, and keep you informed about what’s happening when.

Most of our clients tell us the inconvenience was totally worth it, but we don’t expect you to just grin and bear it. We’re here to problem-solve and make adjustments when needed.

The Timeline Reality Check

Everyone wants to know: “How long will this take?” The honest answer is that luxury renovations take time to do right. Rushing leads to mistakes, and mistakes in renovation work are expensive to fix.

A typical whole home renovation might take anywhere from three to eight months, depending on the scope. We’ll give you a realistic timeline upfront, and we’ll communicate regularly about progress. Some things will go faster than expected, others might hit snags—that’s normal. What’s not normal (at least with us) is being left in the dark about where things stand.

Why We’re Different (And Why It Matters)

Here’s what we’ve noticed after years of luxury home remodeling in Orlando: a lot of contractors treat renovation like a construction project. We treat it like what it actually is—helping a family transform their most important space.

That means we care about the details that matter to you, even if they seem small. We protect your landscaping, we clean up properly at the end of each day, and we coordinate deliveries so your neighbors don’t hate you. We’ve worked in enough neighborhoods around Orlando to know that these things matter.

After the Dust Settles

The best part of any renovation project is that moment when everything comes together and you walk through your “new” home for the first time. We love being there for that moment—it never gets old.

But our relationship doesn’t end there. We warranty our work, we’re available for questions, and honestly, we love seeing how families settle into their renovated spaces. Many of our renovation clients have become repeat customers for other projects, and quite a few have become friends.

Ready to Fall Back in Love with Your Home?

If you’re tired of living with a house that doesn’t fit your life anymore, let’s talk. A luxury home renovation might be exactly what you need to create the space you’ve been dreaming about, right in the neighborhood you already love.

Contact Hardwick General Contracting today. Let’s have a conversation about your vision and how we can make it happen.

The post Luxury Home Remodeling in Orlando: What to Expect from a Whole Home Renovation appeared first on Hardwick General Contracting.

If you’re thinking about building in Central Florida, you’ve probably already figured out that not all builders are created equal. At Hardwick General Contracting, we’ve been helping Orlando families create their dream homes for years, and we’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a house truly feel like home.

We Actually Listen (And Remember What You Tell Us)

Here’s something that might surprise you: we don’t start every conversation by showing you our portfolio. Instead, we want to hear about your life. Do you work from home? Love to entertain? Have three dogs and a cat? Are you planning for kids, or are your kids planning to move out soon?

These aren’t just small talk questions. When you’re building a custom home in Orlando, these details matter. We’ve built homes for empty nesters who suddenly became grandparents and needed space for visiting grandkids. We’ve designed offices for people who thought they’d never work from home, then 2020 happened. Life changes, and your home should be ready for it.

The cookie-cutter neighborhoods around Orlando might look nice in photos, but they can’t adapt to your story. Your custom home can.

We Know Florida (The Good, The Bad, and The Humid)

Living in Central Florida is amazing—until hurricane season rolls around, or when you get that electric bill in August. As local Orlando home builders, we’ve seen it all. We know which materials hold up to our crazy weather, how to design for maximum energy efficiency, and where to place windows to catch those gorgeous Florida sunsets without turning your living room into a greenhouse.

We also know the local building codes like the back of our hands (trust us, they’re not as exciting as they sound, but they’re important). Our relationships with local inspectors, suppliers, and subcontractors mean your project moves smoothly without the headaches that out-of-town builders often face.

It’s Not Just About the Build—It’s About the Journey

We’ll shoot straight with you: building a custom home can be stressful. There are a million decisions to make, budgets to consider, and timelines to manage. But here’s what we’ve learned after years of being luxury home builders in Orlando—the process should actually be enjoyable.

Our clients often tell us they were surprised by how much they enjoyed the building process. That’s not an accident. We believe in clear communication, realistic timelines, and treating your budget like it’s our own money. No surprise costs, no disappearing for weeks at a time, no “we’ll figure it out later” attitudes.

We’re Still Here After the Keys Are Handed Over

One thing that sets us apart from other Central Florida custom home builders is what happens after we’re done building. We don’t just hand over the keys and disappear. Many of our clients have become genuine friends over the years. We’ve been invited to housewarming parties, kids’ graduations, and holiday gatherings in the homes we built.

When something needs attention (and in any home, something eventually will), we’re just a phone call away. We stand behind our work because we live in this community too. Your satisfaction affects our reputation, and frankly, we sleep better at night knowing our families are happy in the homes we’ve built for them.

The Real Question Is: What Kind of Legacy Do You Want to Build?

When you choose a custom home builder in Orlando, you’re not just hiring a contractor—you’re choosing a partner for one of the most important projects of your life. Some builders will give you a house. We want to give you a home where memories are made, where your family gathers, and where you genuinely love spending time.

Ready to start the conversation? Give us a call. Let’s talk about your vision, your timeline, and how we can make your forever home a reality right here in beautiful Central Florida.

The post Why Choose a Custom Home Builder in Orlando for Your Forever Home appeared first on Hardwick General Contracting.

You, the modern luxury homeowner, are no longer satisfied with grand spaces and expensive finishes alone. Like many of your peers—particularly those from younger generations—you demand homes that not only showcase your success but enhance your daily experience through purpose-driven design. You seek sanctuaries that cater to your holistic wellbeing while reflecting your personal values and lifestyle aspirations.

Having toured countless exceptional properties across the country, I’ve identified five definitive trends that should inform your high-end custom home building journey in 2025. These aren’t fleeting fashions but substantive evolutions in how you conceive and construct your ideal living space.

1. Sustainability as the New Luxury

The most significant transformation in luxury home building is the elevation of sustainability from a peripheral consideration to a central design principle. As your environmental awareness grows, sustainable custom home designs are taking center stage. You’re likely seeking ways to reduce your carbon footprint without compromising luxury or comfort.

Today, ecological responsibility is viewed not as a sacrifice but as an exclusive privilege. Net-zero energy homes—which generate as much energy as they consume through solar arrays and advanced insulation—represent the pinnacle of this movement. Recycled and reclaimed materials are being used to add both environmental integrity and artisanal character.

Your 2025 luxury home can include sophisticated rainwater harvesting systems, geothermal heating and cooling, and smart technologies that optimize resource use. These features are seamlessly integrated into architectural designs to enhance rather than distract from the overall aesthetic. The result is a home that feels not only opulent but conscientious—a combination that resonates deeply with the values of modern luxury buyers.

2. Wellness-Integrated Architecture

The pandemic fundamentally altered your relationship with your home, and your luxury residence must evolve to meet these new wellness expectations. Holistic well-being is now at the forefront of high-end residential design. Infrared saunas, meditation rooms, biophilic elements, and human-centric lighting are becoming essential in crafting personal sanctuaries.

Bathrooms transcend utilitarian function and evolve into private spas equipped with aromatherapy steam showers, chromotherapy soaking tubs, and heated floors. Materials are chosen for their beauty, tactile quality, and health benefits, creating spaces that support both physical and emotional wellness.

Throughout your home, air purification systems, circadian lighting, and acoustic insulation technologies contribute to a calm and healthy environment. Low-VOC natural materials ensure a toxin-free atmosphere. Interior courtyards, living walls, and expansive windows that frame curated landscape views bring nature inside and deepen the restorative experience.

3. Multi-Functional Kitchen Complexes

In 2025, the kitchen in your luxury home is no longer just a place to cook—it is a multifunctional complex designed to accommodate a variety of experiences. Sculleries and working pantries support the main kitchen by housing prep areas, additional appliances, and cleaning zones, keeping the core space clean and guest-ready.

The primary kitchen becomes a showcase for entertaining, featuring exhibition-style islands, architectural-grade appliances, and bespoke cabinetry. Adjacent beverage centers, including coffee bars and mixology stations, cater to everyday indulgence and social gatherings alike.

This evolution reflects a growing desire for culinary experiences that rival fine dining at home. It allows for seamless entertaining, whether through private chefs or catered events, without sacrificing the visual elegance of the central living space.

4. Technological Integration with Human-Centered Design

Smart home technology in 2025 has matured into an indispensable component of luxury living. Voice-controlled systems, AI-powered security, and automation are no longer novelties—they are expected. What sets exceptional homes apart is the thoughtful, intuitive integration of these technologies.

Your home systems can be designed to anticipate your needs—adjusting lighting, temperature, and entertainment based on your routine. Entry systems may recognize you, setting personalized scenes upon arrival. All of this occurs seamlessly and invisibly, preserving the serenity of your space.

Rather than showcasing technology for its own sake, 2025 luxury homes prioritize ease, comfort, and user experience. Interfaces are discreet, controls are intuitive, and the entire environment is crafted to work in harmony with your lifestyle.

5. Indoor-Outdoor Living Redefined

One of the most defining trends in 2025 is the complete dissolution of the boundary between indoor and outdoor living. Expansive glass walls, retractable doors, and transitional spaces create a seamless flow between interior comforts and exterior beauty.

Outdoor spaces now rival interiors in design and functionality. Outdoor kitchens mirror their indoor counterparts in performance and finish, while exterior living areas are equipped with integrated heating, cooling, and lighting to ensure year-round enjoyment. Pools and water features are designed as sculptural elements that engage the senses and elevate the landscape.

Landscaping is no longer an afterthought—it is an extension of the architecture. Native plantings adapted to the local climate offer sustainable, low-maintenance beauty that enhances privacy, supports biodiversity, and connects your home to its environment.

The Future of Your Custom Luxury Home

As you move deeper into 2025, these trends will continue to evolve, influenced by advances in technology, shifting cultural values, and growing environmental concerns. The most successful custom homes will not chase trends but embrace enduring principles that promote comfort, beauty, and well-being.

Choosing a builder who understands and embodies these values is critical. Hardwick General Contracting, one of Orlando’s premier luxury builders, offers the expertise and vision required to bring your dream home to life. Their commitment to sustainability, wellness, and artisanal craftsmanship makes them a trusted partner in delivering excellence.

Ultimately, the true measure of luxury in 2025 is not extravagance, but intentional design that enhances your life. Your home should be an authentic expression of your values—a place that nurtures your mind, body, and spirit, while harmonizing with the world around it.

The post 5 High-End Custom Home Building Trends in 2025 appeared first on Hardwick General Contracting.

Spanning 1,900 acres of pristine land with rare rolling terrain and stunning lakefront views, Bella Collina has established itself as the gold standard for luxury communities in Central Florida. As you enter through the stately gates, you’re transported to a world where Mediterranean elegance meets modern Florida living—a sanctuary of refined taste that feels worlds away from the bustling theme parks that Orlando is traditionally known for.

What sets Bella Collina apart isn’t just its magnificent 75,000-square-foot clubhouse, reminiscent of an Italian villa, or its championship golf course designed by Sir Nick Faldo. It’s the complete lifestyle transformation on offer—from spa treatments to exquisite dining, from tennis facilities to scenic walking trails—all within a secure, gated community that provides both privacy and connection.

As we move deeper into 2025, Bella Collina continues to represent the pinnacle of luxury development in the region. New custom estates are breaking ground, with prices ranging from lakefront condos starting in the $300,000s to custom homes reaching several million dollars. The market remains robust, with primary residents and second-home buyers alike recognizing the unmatched value of this exceptional community.

Emerging Luxury Communities Transforming Orlando

While Bella Collina established the template for luxury community living, a new wave of exclusive developments is following suit—each with its own distinctive vision of Florida luxury.

Lake Nona, located southeast of Orlando International Airport, is a 17-square-mile planned community that has evolved from a medical and research hub into one of Central Florida’s most desirable addresses. Its newest phase of custom estates combines resort-style amenities with cutting-edge smart-home technology and a vibrant town center. Luxury residences in this enclave begin at $1.2 million and feature the latest in architectural innovation and sustainable design.

In Winter Park, long considered Orlando’s most prestigious address, boutique developments are now transforming former estates into intimate luxury enclaves. These small-scale, exclusive communities are often limited to fewer than a dozen custom residences and offer close proximity to Park Avenue’s fine dining and shopping scene. The homes, meticulously crafted and rich in detail, are priced between $3 million and $10 million for scheduled completion in 2025.

The Dr. Phillips corridor, located near Restaurant Row and the upscale Mall at Millenia, is also experiencing a surge in custom home communities. These neighborhoods feature expansive water views and a suite of resort-style amenities, appealing to professionals and executives seeking a luxury lifestyle with convenient access to downtown Orlando.

The New Definition of Luxury in 2025

Orlando’s luxury market has evolved well beyond large homes with opulent finishes. Today’s affluent buyers are seeking comprehensive lifestyle upgrades that enhance both comfort and experience. Wellness-integrated design has become essential, with dedicated fitness centers, spa facilities, meditation gardens, and walking trails serving as standard features in new developments.

Technological integration is no longer a luxury but a necessity, with smart-home systems that provide security, convenience, and energy efficiency expected in every high-end property. Sustainable luxury is also gaining prominence, as eco-conscious buyers demand energy-efficient systems, solar options, and environmentally friendly materials that align with their values.

Home design now prioritizes multi-functional spaces in response to shifting post-pandemic priorities. Homes frequently include adaptable rooms that can serve as offices, guest quarters, or entertainment zones. Additionally, Florida’s climate demands a focus on indoor-outdoor living, with seamless transitions from interior to exterior spaces. Features like summer kitchens, covered lanais, and resort-style pools are considered baseline amenities rather than premium upgrades.

Beyond Residential: Luxury Commercial Developments

Orlando’s transformation extends beyond residential developments and into a range of upscale commercial projects. Downtown Orlando is seeing a dramatic evolution with the introduction of a $500 million mixed-use development near the Kia Center. This project, led by the Orlando Magic, will include a luxury hotel tower, high-end residences, and premium office spaces—all aimed at transforming the urban core into a sophisticated entertainment district.

Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe, scheduled to open in 2025, has also spurred development in the tourist corridor. Among the new luxury offerings is the Helios Grand Hotel, which seeks to redefine the theme park experience with its opulent accommodations and exclusive guest amenities.

Lake Nona continues to thrive as both a residential and commercial hub. Its expansion now includes a vibrant district filled with chef-driven restaurants, boutique retail stores, and high-end personal services. This blend of convenience and exclusivity makes the area increasingly attractive to high-net-worth individuals looking for a holistic luxury environment.

Finding Your Place in Orlando’s Luxury Renaissance

In this evolving landscape, choosing the right professionals to guide your luxury home journey is more important than ever. Hardwick General Contracting, one of Orlando’s premier luxury builders, has established a stellar reputation for delivering exceptional custom homes that reflect the distinct character of each community while honoring the unique preferences of their clients.

As Orlando continues its transformation into a mature, culturally sophisticated metropolis, its emerging and established luxury communities stand as symbols of its evolution. The rolling hills, lakefront vistas, and Tuscan-inspired architecture of Bella Collina offer a lifestyle that is both timeless and contemporary—a sanctuary for those who appreciate the finer things in life while enjoying all that Central Florida has to offer.

Whether you are seeking a primary residence, a vacation home, or a strategic investment, Orlando’s luxury real estate market in 2025 provides a wealth of opportunity. From the enduring elegance of Bella Collina to the rising prominence of enclaves like Lake Nona and Winter Park, buyers are met with more variety, sophistication, and lifestyle-driven options than ever before.

As you explore these possibilities, consider not only the properties themselves but the lifestyles they make possible—the communities they foster, the experiences they offer, and the legacies they help shape. In a region once known primarily for its attractions, a new story is unfolding—one of luxury, culture, and refined living. And now, you have the chance to be part of it.

For more information on custom building opportunities in these prestigious communities, visit Hardwick General Contracting—Orlando’s trusted partner in bringing luxury visions to life.

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This showcase luxury estate home in Bay Hill combines architectural distinction, scale, and craftsmanship into a statement of timeless elegance. With 5 bedrooms, 5 full bathrooms, and 4 half baths, it has been meticulously designed to meet the highest standards of comfort, function, and style. Every detail—from the custom floor plan to the curated finishes—reflects the elevated quality that defines Hardwick General Contracting’s custom home building.

As the general contractor and luxury home builder on this project, Hardwick General Contracting brings a legacy of award-winning craftsmanship, personalized service, and premium construction experience to every phase of the build. Family-owned and operated, the company is led by founder and president Greg Hardwick—honored as Builder of the Year by the Master Custom Builder Council, Remodeler of the Year by the Greater Orlando Builders Association, and Florida Remodeler of the Year by the Florida Home Builders Association (FHBA). Our mission is to provide an extraordinary, concierge-level building experience with a focus on sustainability, fine design, and exceptional value.

This Bay Hill custom home is being brought to life through a collaboration with some of Florida’s most renowned design partners:

• Nasrallah Architecture Group, with over 36 years of award-winning architectural design, has delivered a residence that harmonizes timeless aesthetics, contextual awareness, and innovative functionality. Their disciplined design approach ensures every square foot is both beautiful and purposeful.

• Soco Interiors, a nationally recognized luxury interior design firm, is crafting the home’s interiors with expertise in space planning, material selection, and refined detailing. Their collaboration ensures that the home’s interior is as elevated and livable as its architectural structure.

At Hardwick General Contracting, we specialize in building luxury custom homes in Orlando, including the highly desirable areas of Bay Hill, Dr. Phillips, and surrounding Central Florida communities. Our process is rooted in collaboration, integrity, and a dedication to delivering stunning, livable works of art. We believe your custom home should reflect your lifestyle, values, and vision—and we’re honored to bring this one-of-a-kind estate to life.

We look forward to sharing construction progress as this new Bay Hill estate home takes shape. Follow us for updates as we continue building spaces that inspire.

To learn more about our work as a leading Orlando custom home builder, or to view our portfolio, visit hardwickgc.com.

The post Orlando Luxury Home Builder Spotlight: Bay Hill Estate appeared first on Hardwick General Contracting.

At Hardwick General Contracting, we understand the importance of designing and constructing homes that are not only visually appealing but also resilient and comfortable in the face of Florida’s demanding weather conditions. In this blog, we will explore the key considerations for building beautiful and practical homes that can withstand the unique challenges of Central Florida’s climate.

Understanding The Climate Of Central Florida

Before implementing certain building strategies, it is important to first understand the climate characteristics of Central Florida. The weather is hot in summer with very high humidity and the weather is cool in winter. Rain falls a lot, especially in summer, and the area is also at risk of tropical storms and hurricanes. Building homes in this area requires careful planning and construction methods that make it able to withstand the elements while also providing a comfortable home to live in.

Managing High Humidity

Effective Ventilation Systems

Living in high humidity leads to many problems like; mildew, damaged structures, and comfort for people who live there. To tackle this, a good ventilation system is needed. Having good airflow will help to bring down the humidity in the air. Energy energy-saving HVAC systems having dehumidification can prove handy in indoor comfort.

Moisture-Resistant Building Materials

Choose a material that can resist moisture damage. Using materials like fiber cement siding and treated wood can keep your place from getting wet and moldy. Also, using vapor blockades and sealants to seal up edges can protect your home against humid air.

Insulation and Air Sealing

It’s important to make sure the house has proper insulation and air sealing to maintain indoor comfort and reduce energy. Indoor temperature is helped by insulation while preventing humid air from entering the air sealant. These measures help in creating a more energy-efficient and comfortable living space

Addressing Heavy Rainfall

Effective Drainage Systems

Comprehensive drainage systems are necessary to prevent the accumulation of water due to heavy rains. To prevent flooding your home, grading and installing french drains, gutters, and downspouts are very important to the home. Also, storm water runoff can be reduced with permeable paving materials; they prevent erosion too.

Durable Roofing Solutions

In order to protect your house from heavy rains and winds, get a sturdy roofing system. Metal roofs, clay tiles, and asphalt shingles are popular durable choices to resist heavy rain and wind. Having the roofing system installed properly and maintain regularly will increase it longevity and performance.

Hurricane Preparedness.

Reinforced Structural Design

Central Florida homeowners are prioritizing hurricane preparedness. Having a strong structure on the house will keep the building in its place untouched by the wind and storms. There are types of impact-resistant windows and doors. Concrete block construction is also a popular choice for its strength and durability.

Storm Coverings and Damage Resistant Windows

Putting up storm shutters and windows will keep the house safe from damages caused by hurricanes. They help you in safeguarding your home from wind and any debris from the storm or hurricane that occur. A lot of trends today energy-efficient impact-resistant windows, one may want to consider.

Emergency Preparedness Plans

While the structural conditions should be considered, having an emergency preparedness plan is also essential. Having such a plan may help save the lives of the occupants of the house. Have an emergency plan with necessary supplies like food, water, anything else and medicine. Plan for evacuation if required. Homeowner should also invest in a generator to keep the home running when power goes off.

Creating Comfortable Living Spaces

Energy-Efficient Design

Design is important to making Central Florida living spaces energy efficient and comfortable. You can add features like high performance insulation, energy efficient appliance, energy efficient windows and doors. Moreover, orientate the house to utilize natural wind and light for shelter comfort and energy savings.

Outdoor Living Spaces

In Central Florida, houses are mostly built with outdoor living spaces that provide an extension from the indoor to the outdoor. When your outdoor spaces are designed with covered patios, screened porches, or outdoor kitchens, they can improve the livability of the home and provide a comfortable space for families to enjoy.

Smart Home Technology

Adding home gadgets in your house helps to make things more comfortable as well as convenient. You can control almost everything in your home like thermostats, lights, and security systems by smart devices. Another key benefit is energy efficiency and savings through smart home technology.

It’s important to understand the challenges that come with the climate when building a home in Central Florida. At Hardwick General Contracting, our objective is to design and build homes that are deliberately built to withstand the climate of Central Florida. Contact us today to build your dream home!

The post Building Homes for the Climate of Central Florida: Some Important Factors appeared first on Hardwick General Contracting.

A New Era of Luxury: Beyond Aesthetics 

A Home should be designed for people to live in, and go way beyond just a “cool” design.  Luxury custom homes used to be all about size and extravagance.   Today, owners building high-end custom homes demand that the end product fulfill an aesthetic vision, but also be specifically tailored to their lifestyle.  In many cases, the ultra-high-end home can have a complex design and multiple systems in place to control lighting, mechanical equipment, scenes, safety, and security; however, if the basic functions of the home do not perform as designed or planned, none of that matters.  Knowledge of proven building science principles is required, and Greg Hardwick and his team are aware of this.  Hardwick GC ensures high-performing homes in several different ways, including education through industry involvement, assembling innovative design teams, and industry experts.   

Your Vision, Our Mission 

At Hardwick GC, we first visit a dream home before building one.  Projects are custom-designed to reflect your persona, aspirations, and ethos. The Hardwick GC team will work with you from the beginning to the end of the project. Greg Hardwick and his team focus on the construction of distinctive designs that are infused with innovation and artistry. The process is visible, engaging, and tailored to your needs. 

Pre-Construction Services: Laying the Foundation for Success 

The process of a successful custom home project starts long before we lay a foundation. Proper planning is essential to a successful project, and the team at Hardwick GC will help assemble the best design professionals and industry experts to achieve the dream. Then, we will work with you and your design team to create an incredible design, develop a sensible budget projection, navigate building regulations, and plan strategically to do the right work at the right time, making everything flow! We work hard to turn your ideas and visions into an enjoyable journey. 

High-Performance Building: The Harmony of Beauty and Function 

High performance is a revolution happening within the entire industry. Hardwick GC builds homes with tried and true building practices with state-of-the-art technology. The luxury home builder must construct a durable home without sacrificing elegance and functionality. Hardwick GC’s collaborative design approach and high-performance building processes ensure that every home exceeds design expectations. 

Partnering with Green Building Programs: High-Performance Investment 

By engaging with local and national “Sustainable” residential programs and standards, Hardwick GC has vast experience in implementing best practices in energy efficiency, water conservation, lot choice, site impact, indoor air quality, health, durable materials, and disaster mitigation. Building a high-quality, high-performance home with Hardwick GC is a rewarding investment ensuring long-lasting benefits. Let us help you create a home that you’ll love for years to come. 

Crafting a Better Tomorrow 

Whether you want a new luxury home or a makeover that reflects the best of the future, Hardwick General Contracting is the one name that assures innovation, quality, and performance.  Choose us for your custom home needs, and step into a space that embodies the very essence of contemporary luxury.  

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Crafting an Outdoor Oasis

The key to an incredible outdoor living space is seamlessly blending form and function while creating an oasis-like ambiance. Every element should work together to provide beauty, convenience, comfort and the feeling of an escape right in your own backyard. We pay close attention to the layout, functionality, lighting, landscape design, and all the amenities to craft spaces our clients absolutely love.

When designing your outdoor living space, we consider how you want to use the area. Do you love to entertain and host large gatherings? Are you an avid grill master looking for an outdoor kitchen? Do you envision lazy summer days spent lounging by the pool and soaking up the Florida sunshine? Determining the functions you need guides us in laying out functional zones and incorporating the appropriate amenities into each area.

Perfectly Designed for Relaxation and Entertaining

A key advantage to living in Florida is being able to enjoy the outdoors for most of the year. Thoughtful design allows you to get the most out of every gorgeous day and balmy evening. Seating areas give you designated spots to relax, chat with friends and family or simply unwind with a good book. When it comes time to entertain, a spacious patio or poolside area accommodates guests comfortably.

We ensure hosting duties stay easy and enjoyable by incorporating amenities like an outdoor kitchen, bar area and dining space into the design. With a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen, you’ll have everything you need to prepare drinks and meals al fresco. Integrated lighting sets the mood for effortless entertaining from happy hour cocktails to poolside dinner parties.

Tranquil Water Features

The sight and sound of flowing water has an instantly calming effect. Fountains, ponds and splash pads are wonderful additions that bring serenity to your outdoor living space. Water features come in endless shapes, sizes and designs to match your style. For backyard ponds, you may opt for a simple lily pond or a more elaborate koi pond complete with a waterfall. We can install fountains that range from striking tiered styles to more subtle single spouts.

Splash pads make for refreshing family fun on hot summer days. We design custom splash pads to delight kids of all ages integrated seamlessly into the landscape design.

Luxurious Pools and Spas

No outdoor living space in Florida is complete without a swimming pool. A resort-style pool creates an at-home vacation spot where you can relax in the sunshine, get some exercise with laps or simply float the day away. Today’s pools boast innovative features that make them more enjoyable, convenient and eco-friendly. Options like infinity edges, sun shelves, waterfalls, integrated hot tubs and negative edge skimmers give your pool an ultra-luxurious feel and look.

We also design poolscapes to align with your priorities whether they include lap swimming, games and sports, lounging, or even poolside entertaining. The pool deck provides a critical transition from your home to the pool area. We use premium finishes like natural stone, brick, and pavers to create stylish, high-performance pool decks.

Pool maintenance also matters for safety, aesthetics and extending the life of your investment. New technologies like electronic chlorine generators, salt chlorinators and mineral purification simplify upkeep. Automatic pool cleaners, covers and high-efficiency pumps and filters also take the hassle out of maintenance.

Ambiance Enhancing Fire Features

The flickering glow and warmth of a fire embodies relaxation. Fire features like fire pits, fireplaces and tiki torches bring that ambiance straight into your outdoor living space. Grouping cozy seating around a fire pit encourages conversation and connection. Tiki torches add mood lighting and the essence of the tropics to any patio or poolside area. An outdoor fireplace makes a stunning focal point while providing additional functionality.

We design custom fire features to match each client’s unique style and priorities with the outdoor space. The placement, materials and styling options are virtually endless to create your ideal backyard retreat.

Shade Solutions

While Florida has plenty of glorious sunny days, you’ll still need shade solutions for when you’ve had enough direct sunlight. Pergolas, pavilions, cabanas and umbrellas are excellent ways to find refuge from the heat without having to go back inside. We incorporate shade structures strategically throughout outdoor living areas and position them to take advantage of prevailing breezes.

There are hundreds of pergola designs to choose from that align with any style. We love incorporating vines and other climbing plants over pergolas to provide natural shade. Freestanding pavilions work well to define seating areas in larger patios or poolscapes. For more portable shade options, cantilever and tilt umbrellas can be repositioned as needed. Cabanas give you a shady escape plus a bit of privacy and coziness.

Designing for Florida’s Climate

Florida’s climate is defined by abundant sunshine, high humidity and heavy seasonal rains. We carefully factor the environment into every aspect of our outdoor living space designs from material selection to incorporation of shade and drainage.

Wind and Rain Considerations

Our state experiences forceful winds, thunderstorms and hurricanes. It’s critical for all structures and elements in outdoor spaces to withstand high winds and heavy precipitation.

• Permanent structures are reinforced to meet wind load requirements.
• Shade structures and umbrellas use weighted bases for stability.
• Fabrics, cushions and decor items are constructed of durable, weather-resistant materials or stored safely when not in use.
• Drainage systems and grading prevent flooding and pooling.

We also design outdoor kitchens and storage for optimal weather resistance. Cabinets and surfaces should be non-porous and appliances well-ventilated and covered to prevent rust.

Managing Sun Exposure

While Florida’s abundant sunshine powers our Vitamin D production and happy dispositions, too much direct sun can take its toll. Managing sun exposure promotes health, comfort and functionality in outdoor living spaces.

We utilize shade structures, trees and shrubbery strategically throughout patio and pool areas to block direct sunlight during peak hours. This allows you to enjoy the outdoors longer without overheating. For pools, water features and play areas, position shade to cover a portion of the space while leaving some full sun areas.

It’s also important to provide shade over seating areas, dining spaces and entries to allow guests a shady spot to relax. Movable shade solutions like umbrellas, drapes and screens let you adjust as needed to block changing sun angles during the day.

Embracing the Tropics

Florida’s sub-tropical climate means embracing lush, tropical-inspired landscapes. Vibrant flowers, palms, and foliage plants thrive year-round in our climate adding natural beauty. We incorporate tropical landscaping into every outdoor living space design to transport you to a luxury resort right at home.

Tropical plants also provide practical benefits. Lush garden beds prevent erosion from heavy rains. Trees and shrubs add visual interest, privacy and shade. Flowering plants attract pollinators adding lovely pops of color and life. We carefully curate plant selections to provide year-round beauty with minimal maintenance required.

Seamless Indoor/Outdoor Flow

A key advantage to Florida’s temperate climate is the ability to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Expanding your home’s living area to include the outdoors essentially doubles your usable space for entertaining, recreation and relaxation. We specialize in creating indoor/outdoor connections through wide openings, transitional spaces and unified design aesthetics.

Wide Openings

One of the easiest ways to create indoor/outdoor flow is by incorporating oversized openings. French doors, sliding glass walls and retractable screens allow your home to open completely to the outdoors. The wide openings eliminate physical barriers between spaces making them feel cohesive and connected. Open floor plans also facilitate free circulation between interior rooms and outdoor living areas.

We ensure sight lines remain clear between indoor and outdoor areas. This might mean tweaking the placement of structural elements, furniture, and landscaping to preserve an unobstructed view. Truly experiencing that indoor/outdoor connection relies heavily on the ability to see straight through to the outdoors.

Transitional Spaces

While removing walls makes a big impact, you can also use transitional spaces to link indoor and outdoor areas. Covered porches, patios and lanais provide a gradual transition moving you through different zones. The visual connection remains while still offering protection from the elements.

We incorporate overhangs, pergolas and shade structures to craft versatile covered spaces. Outdoor ceiling fans, lighting and furniture make transitional areas equally welcoming and usable as interior rooms. These “in-between” spaces expand your living footprint immensely.

Unified Design Aesthetics

Finally, cohesive design aesthetics also facilitate indoor/outdoor connections. Repeating design elements, materials and decor themes creates harmony between adjacent living spaces. For example, if your home features a coastal design style, we’ll incorporate textiles, furnishings, lighting, plants and decorative details evoking the seaside. Keeping colors, textures and styles consistent enhances the flow.

We pay attention to hardscape choices that can further connect spaces through the use of cohesive materials. Using the same stone, tile, brick or concrete finishes indoors and out enhances continuity. Even small details like matching fixtures, hardware and accessories make a difference in tying everything together.

Bring Your Vision to Life

The possibilities for upgrading your outdoor living space are truly endless. At Hardwick General Contracting, we turn dreams into reality through thoughtful design, integrated functionality and expert workmanship. Our team brings decades of experience delivering luxury homes and outdoor improvements. We handle your project from initial concept through completion with seamless management.

We can’t wait to bring your dream home to life!

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