Florida McMansions

By Leanne Paynter | 8:35 AM on May. 22, 2006 | Florida Real Estate Blog

According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Florida is among the 20 states they identified in 2002 that is experiencing teardowns in historic neighborhoods. In 2002 they identified 100 communities in 20 states and, unfortunately, as of May 2006 that number has soared to more than 300 communities in 33 states that are being impacted by teardowns.

There were 21 Florida cities identified: Boca Raton, Bradenton Beach, Coral Gables, Delray Beach, Fort Lauderdale (Rio Vista), Gulf Stream, Hollywood (Lakes), Juno Beach, Jupiter Island, Lighthouse Point, Marco Island, Miami (Coconut Grove, West Grove), Naples, North Miami Beach, Ocean Ridge, Old Marco, Palm Beach, Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Tallahassee, and Tampa.

The term "McMansions" is a slang architectural term and is often used to describe the house built to replace the teardown.  In Florida, McMansions are typically much bigger than the original house on the site and they tend to stand out in a neighborhood that mostly consists of older and smaller, one-story homes with roomy front and back yards. Oftentimes, this new construction is not welcomed by neighbors because it destroys the original character of the neighborhood. Immediate neighbors sometimes complain of the negative impact it has on their property with regards to restricted views, reduced sunlight to their house or yard, as well as property values.  Local leaders are often either not able or willing to prevent these teardowns that forever change the landscape of historic neighborhoods.

Among other terms used in place of "McMansions" are: "monster home," "faux chateaux," and "starter castle."

Additional information:

• Florida Trust for Historic Preservation
  
• Teardowns / McMansions in the News (PDF format)
  
• Glossary of Teardown Terms (PDF format)