Unique Places to Stay in Florida: 10 Cool & Quirky Rentals

This article showcases a two-bedroom condo in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which underwent a major redesign to achieve a French coastal chic aesthetic, inspired by the Mediterranean shores. Originally built in 1997, the apartment was significantly dated before Toronto-based designer Sabrina Albanese undertook its transformation. The clients desired a refreshed, energetic space infused with color, pattern, beach hues, and a coastal vibe, moving away from the existing old-fashioned finishes. The kitchen presented a unique design challenge due to a load-bearing wall set at a tight angle. Despite this, Sabrina Albanese successfully created a space that evokes the feel of a 1970s St. Tropez vacation. Key design elements include glossy, light-reflecting tiles, open shelving, and natural oak accents to create a 'weightless' ambiance. A handmade crackle-glazed tile backsplash from Waterworks in a mint color seamlessly integrates with the custom millwork, contributing to the distinct European-inspired coastal look. For the living room, the design aimed for a relaxed European feel. This was achieved by combining a modern Ligne Roset sofa with botanical textiles and a Turkish flat-weave rug. Custom double-sliding barn doors, a traditional element, were modernized with angular lines and recessed hardware, blending rustic charm with contemporary design. The dining room, bathed in natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows, features warm, natural woods. A sleek solid teak ceiling treatment, woven rattan dining chairs, and raffia shades contribute to a nautical theme, reminiscent of a 1970s yacht, with Sabrina emphasizing the intent to mix textures while allowing light to filter through. The primary bedroom was designed to be traditional yet chic, blending comfort with elegance. It features a large upholstered bed with stepped feet, classic bedding, and botanical prints. A comfortable sofa at the opposite end of the room provides a cozy spot for reading. The guest room, functioning as both a child's bedroom and a guest space, draws heavily on beach inspiration with varying hues of ocean blues, a light rattan bed frame, and a youthful mix of textures, including pompom pillows and an ikat rug. In the primary ensuite bathroom, a contemporary freestanding tub is elevated on a platform within a nook, offering a view, while sheer drapes layered over raffia shades add a touch of romanticism. The powder room was intentionally designed with a playful eccentricity, featuring bold choices such as quirky wallpaper depicting Parisian gardens mixed with peacocks, dinosaurs, and ice cream cones. This is contrasted with black floor tiles and a tall vanity, creating an impactful design in a small space where bold experimentation is encouraged. #FloridaApartment #CoastalChic #FrenchInteriorDesign #SabrinaAlbanese #HomeRedesign #RattanFurniture #BotanicalPrints #StTropezStyle #EuropeanCoastal #ModernRustic

The location of a home is a fundamental factor that significantly influences its design, both externally and internally. Architectural and interior design decisions are shaped by various elements specific to a region, including climate, susceptibility to natural disasters like hurricanes or earthquakes, and the availability of local construction materials. Regional trends also play a crucial role in ensuring homes are not only functional but also seamlessly integrated into their surrounding environments. Chancey Architecture and Interior Design, a firm with 35 years of experience, has designed residences across diverse geographical locations, from the tropical settings of the Bahamas and Grand Cayman to the mountainous terrains of Colorado, and across states like Ohio and Idaho. This extensive experience has provided the firm with a deep understanding of how regional differences dictate design requirements. The firm emphasizes that a home's location profoundly impacts its design, with Florida presenting its own unique set of design considerations and trends. In Florida, design priorities include natural ventilation, effective shading elements, and energy-efficient air-conditioning systems due to the warm climate. Common building materials in the state vary by architectural style. Southern pine is frequently used in Southern Vernacular and Coastal designs. Mediterranean, Spanish, and Mizner-style homes traditionally feature concrete blocks finished with textured stucco, tile roofs, and Palladian elements that highlight scale, symmetry, and balance. In contrast, Coastal Vernacular designs often incorporate wood siding, expansive porches, and metal roofs. Brick is also prevalent, particularly in historical areas like Hyde Park and South Tampa, and is increasingly seen in modern designs. Designs in mountainous regions, such as Colorado, typically feature wood and timber structures with poured concrete basement walls to prevent water infiltration. Western regions must account for snow loading and thermal heat storage, leading to large open spaces with high, sloping ceilings that complement the rugged natural surroundings. Unlike mountain homes, Florida residences usually do not have basements but instead focus on maximizing outdoor living. This includes integrating sunrooms, convertible spaces with sliding or folding doors for indoor-outdoor flow, strategically placed pools as focal points, large covered outdoor areas, outdoor kitchens, and meticulously planned landscaping. Florida's architectural and interior color palettes are also influenced by regional characteristics. European designs often use warm tones, while Craftsman and timber styles lean towards earthy colors. Modern and tropical influences favor lighter palettes. Interior paint colors in Florida tend to be lighter and airier, creating a sense of spaciousness. For more intimate areas like dining rooms, offices, bedrooms, and powder rooms, richer and more vibrant accent hues are introduced. Blues and greens are particularly popular, as they evoke the natural colors of Florida's landscapes and coastal waters. Sustainable design practices are gaining importance, with a focus on energy efficiency, smart home technology, the use of sustainable materials, and rainwater collection systems. These considerations underscore how companies like Chancey Architecture and Interior Design create homes that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also perfectly adapted to their specific environments.

Brillhart Architecture, a South Florida-based firm founded by Jacob and Mellisa Brillhart, has established itself as an expert in local building traditions, specifically within the Tropical Modernism movement. The firm emphasizes integrating the surrounding landscape into its designs and creating spaces that evoke emotional responses from occupants. A prime example of their work is the Brillhart House, the duo's private residence, which embodies a "back-to-the-basics approach." The design was guided by four core questions: necessity, minimizing environmental impact, respecting neighborhood context, and buildability, challenging the prevailing culture of large-scale construction. The Brillhart House seamlessly integrates into the lush Florida landscape, surrounded by palm trees and southern foliage, exuding a serene and idyllic atmosphere. Reflecting traditional Floridian building types, it fosters a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design pays tribute to a "forgotten American Vernacular," blending Florida's postwar architectural heritage with elements like French doors and louvered window walls, giving it a distinctive Floridian character. The home's construction draws inspiration from Florida Crack Architecture, a regional style characterized by wood-frame construction, raised floors, central straight hallways, and wide verandas. Given Florida's humid climate, these traditional architectural elements facilitate passive heating and cooling. The 1500-square-foot residence exemplifies this approach, promoting a fluid transition between interior and exterior areas. The interior layout, consistent with "shotgun" or "dogtrot" style hallways, allows for a continuous flow from front to back. The architects deliberately moved away from conventional concrete-only construction, opting instead for a steel and glass superstructure. This choice resulted in reduced material waste, simplified assembly, and decreased construction costs and time. Furthermore, the use of steel and glass enhances cross ventilation, fostering a heightened sense of living in harmony with the natural landscape. The Brillhart House serves as a testament to the firm's commitment to thoughtful design that respects regional architectural history, embraces environmental consciousness, and creates evocative living spaces. #Miami #Florida #Residential #BrillhartArchitecture #SpotlightOnMiami #Landscape #Projects #VernacularArchitecture #TropicalModernism

Ombi’s Key Largo resort introduces the first floating overwater bungalows in the Florida Keys, offering a travel experience reminiscent of the Maldives but more accessible to North American tourists, as no passport is required for U.S. citizens. Opened in 2024, the resort features three overwater bungalows situated in Key Largo’s Tarpon Basin, a location known for its diverse marine life including dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. The basin's mangroves provide a sheltered environment, ensuring privacy and scenic views for guests. The bungalows are designed with a retro-chic aesthetic, incorporating modern updates. Each unit features wood paneling, white ceilings, tropical plants, and traditional thatched roofs. Key amenities include a king-sized bed, outdoor seating with a table, an overwater hammock, a flat-screen TV, a reading nook, a coffee machine, a wrap-around deck, a fridge, freezer, microwave, high-speed Wi-Fi, and indoor and outdoor Bluetooth speakers. Eco-friendly toiletries and towels are also provided. Ombi’s resort encourages guests to engage with the natural surroundings. Each bungalow is equipped with kayaks, paddleboards, snorkel masks, and fins, allowing guests to explore the Tarpon Basin. Key Largo is renowned for its snorkeling opportunities. For guests preferring indoor relaxation, the bungalows offer games, a flat-screen TV, and speakers. The resort also capitalizes on the Florida Keys' famously dark skies, offering a prime location for stargazing from the bungalow decks. Valued at $1,000 per night, a stay at Ombi’s bungalows includes a round-trip boat transfer from Snooks Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki Bar on Key Largo. Guests receive a welcome basket, chilled water and beverages, a gourmet dinner for two, and breakfast for two. While bungalows are equipped for guests to bring and prepare their own food with the provided kitchen appliances, the resort’s meal package means it is not a necessity. For those interested in exploring local cuisine, Key Largo offers a variety of dining options with Caribbean flavors, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits. Notable restaurants include Key Largo Conch House, C&C Wood Fire Eats, Lazy Lobster Seafood Restaurant, Dayas Cafe Cuban Rest, Hobo’s Cafe, Zaika KeyLargo Indian Cuisine, The Buzzard’s Roost, Italian Food Company, Snappers Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar, and The Fish House, each offering distinct menus ranging from seafood specialties to international dishes. #FloridaKeys #OverwaterBungalows #LuxuryTravel #KeyLargo #TarponBasin #Snorkeling #EcoTourism #USATravel #OmbiResort

This blog post compiles a curated list of top-rated Airbnb rentals in Sarasota, Florida, offering diverse options for travelers seeking accommodations under $240 per night. The selection emphasizes charming decor, high guest ratings for cleanliness, comfort, and location, as well as essential amenities like Wi-Fi and free parking, and responsive host communication. The featured properties cater to various preferences, from beachfront retreats to tranquil country escapes. One notable listing is The Lido Beach House-Retro Studio, a mid-century modern gem on Lido Key available for $218 a night. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom studio accommodates up to three guests and boasts original turquoise bathroom tiles, terrazzo floors, and proximity to the beach, mangroves, nature trails, kayak rentals, and St. Armands Circle. Its cheerful decor and historical elements provide a distinct retro ambiance. For those preferring a historic charm near Sarasota Bay, the Cozy Cottage by the Bay is a two-bedroom, one-bathroom option for $88 a night, sleeping up to four. Located in the Indian Beach-Sapphire Shores neighborhood, this cottage offers easy access to downtown Sarasota and the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, with two bikes provided for exploring the oak-shaded streets. The Zen House in Downtown Sarasota, priced at $220 a night, is a two-bedroom, two-bathroom rental for up to four guests. Situated in the artistic Towles Court neighborhood, it features wood floors and country-style touches. Its second-floor location offers views of old oak trees, and its design elements, including darker colors, stone, and bamboo, contribute to its serene atmosphere, placing guests within walking distance of local restaurants and shops. A beach-centric option is the Siesta Key Village rental, offering two bedrooms and one bathroom for up to six guests at $110 a night. Located in the Calle Minorga complex, it provides quick access to Siesta Key Beach and the vibrant Siesta Key Village, complete with a heated community pool and a private patio with a grill. The Exquisite Refurbished 1920s Bungalow, centrally located in Sarasota, is a two-bedroom, one-bathroom home for up to five guests, costing $113 a night. This historic bungalow features a wide front porch with a swing and a private backyard. It is conveniently close to the Pinecraft Amish and Mennonite community, Arlington Park, and both downtown Sarasota and the beaches. Casa Azul in Bayou Oaks offers two bedrooms and one bathroom for up to four guests at $106 a night. This home, situated in a tranquil, tree-lined neighborhood, features windows overlooking a creek and a fenced-in back patio. Its bright interior with dark wood floors and bold color accents provides a lively yet peaceful retreat, near the Ringling Museum and downtown. For a rural escape, The Guesthouse near Lakewood Ranch is a two-bedroom, two-bathroom property for up to four guests, priced at $113 a night. This guesthouse offers quiet country living with pond views on five acres, located approximately 15 minutes from Lakewood Ranch's shops and restaurants, and 40 minutes from the beaches. Activities such as picking produce at Hunsader Farms and bird watching at Celery Fields are nearby. Another mid-century modern choice is a Central Sarasota bungalow, a two-bedroom, one-bathroom home for up to four, at $124 a night. This renovated 1962 home features terrazzo floors and original pink bathroom tiles. It is conveniently located near the Pinecraft neighborhood and Yoder’s market, with beaches about a 15-minute drive away. The Boho Chic apartment in Arlington Park, priced at $233 a night, offers two bedrooms and one bathroom for up to five guests. This stylish ground-floor apartment is near Sarasota Memorial Hospital and Southside Village, allowing easy access to gourmet restaurants, bars, boutiques, and nearby Harbor Acres. The decor features relaxing wallpaper patterns and updated, fun styles. Finally, the 1935 Artist Cottage Close to Siesta Key Beach, a two-bedroom, two-bathroom rental for up to six guests at $110 a night, exudes a beachy vibe. This updated cottage features a hat-decorated wall, a wave mural, and a fenced-in backyard with a fire pit and volleyball net, making it ideal for a fun, artistic getaway just a short distance from Siesta Key Beach. Overall, the selection provides a comprehensive guide for visitors to Sarasota, highlighting the distinct features and conveniences of each Airbnb property to ensure a pleasant and memorable stay. #SarasotaAirbnbs #VacationRentals #FloridaTravel #LidoKey #SiestaKey #MidCenturyModern #HistoricHomes #TravelGuide #Accommodation

As October begins, the Halloween spirit is evident in many Orlando neighborhoods, with residents decorating their homes in impressive displays comparable to the area's Christmas light traditions. This guide highlights various neighborhoods and specific homes across Orlando and Central Florida that feature notable Halloween decorations, encouraging exploration during the spooky season. The article begins by noting the relocation of the previous occupants of Orlando's "Monster House" on S. Ferncreek Ave, but points to a cozy display at 3733 S. Fern Creek Ave, Orlando, 32806, which includes skeletons and other scary elements, conveniently located near the original Kelly's Homemade Ice Cream. Another featured location is 1901 Mosher Drive in Orlando, a home known for its long-standing tradition of Halloween decorations. The yard is filled with multiple wood-carved decorations, well-lit at night, and suitable for school-aged children, providing a spooky yet family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors are advised to be mindful of the neighborhood and drive cautiously. Near downtown Orlando, 2119 E. Jefferson St offers a dense display of spooky decorations, which are particularly striking at night due to extensive lighting effects and a photo opportunity pathway. The homeowner, @jpearley66, is encouraged to be tagged by visitors. In Altamonte Springs, 404 Oakhurst St features a life-size pirate ship with special lighting and effects, manned by a skeleton crew. This display, created by homeowner James (@beachdad40), is best viewed at night and is suitable for all ages. Fern Park hosts 2502 Dakota Trail, a home known for its humorous graveyard and skeleton decorations. The skeletons are frequently rearranged into various comedic scenes, which can be followed on Instagram via @skullyandbones. The display includes some slightly gruesome elements but is generally appropriate. Nearby, other decorated homes on Winston Rd, Winnebago, and Doverwood Rd are also highlighted, with some noted as kid-friendly. This area is also close to popular spots for Halloween-themed drinks, such as Permanent Vacation and Eden Bar. Further afield, 1362 Cavender Creek Rd in Minneola offers an interactive light and music show for both Halloween and Christmas. Visitors can scan a QR code to choose a song, and the lights synchronize to the music, illuminating screens, props, and trees. The show runs on weekdays from 7-9:30 pm and weekends from 7-10 pm, with updates available on The Lights on Cavender Creek Facebook page. In Ocoee, 7604 Country Run Parkway boasts a yard filled with Halloween inflatables, animatronics, and orange rooftop lights. This display, primarily kid-friendly with some scarier elements, includes adorable purple and Disney decorations, suitable for engaging younger visitors. Images for this location were provided by @jord_alder. Additional Orlando homes with notable Halloween decorations include 3400 Somerset Park Drive in Lake Nona (featuring a nightly projection show), The Williams Holiday House at 2006 Mohican Trail, Maitland, 1331 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, 233 Thomas Drive, Casselberry (featured in the main image), 3273 Lordmall Court, Oviedo, 3143 Cayman Way, Orlando, and 846 Riggs Cir, Davenport. The article also mentions locations outside of Orlando, such as Santa's House by the Bigda's at 4314 Shadow Wood Trail, Winter Haven, which, despite being known for Christmas lights, also features synchronized Halloween lights and decorations. Millbrook Manor at 7535 Millbrook Ave, Viera, FL, described as "Sorta Merry, Sorta Scary," offers displays for both Halloween and Christmas nightly from 6-10 pm and is pet-friendly. A list of homes that have been decorated in previous years but are unconfirmed for 2025 is provided, including locations in Kissimmee, Groveland, Longwood, Winter Springs, Winter Garden, and Orlando. Finally, nearby neighborhoods recommended for a visit include Celebration, Baldwin Park, Audubon Park, Historic Downtown Winter Garden, and Historic Downtown Sanford. The article concludes by reminding readers to drive carefully and consider pairing their exploration with a Halloween movie, and encourages readers to submit additional decorated homes via Instagram DM to the Orlando Date Night Guide. #HalloweenDecorations #OrlandoEvents #CentralFlorida #NeighborhoodDisplays #SpookySeason #HomeDecor #FamilyFriendlyHalloween #LightShows #CommunityEvents