In the beginning of the design process we had concluded that building on slab would be more economical, especially if we could just use that concrete as the first floor "flooring" and stain it. We have done this in the past in a previous house and loved the effect. We were also under the assumption that it would be stronger and more hurricane proof if anchored to a slab vs. pilings.

After our trip to Hawaii this month we observed so many structure on "stilts" and began to rethink our plan, but needed some further info. After a few key questions fired at our new project manager we decided to go with concrete pilings.

Some of the reasons... 

1. No significant change in hurricane proof, in fact more protection from storm surge.

2. Cheaper cost for the "foundation".

3. More room for error in construction. 

4. Easier for installing plumbing. 

But the real bonus in this conclusion is that we have essentially added outdoor studio space at ground level with the main building. 2500 square feet of it. What was originally going to be a ceramics courtyard next to the main building will expand into this new space. We will gain a huge amount of storage as well.

The main building will be raised approximately 8 feet. The bungalows will be raised approximately 4 feet.