You might remember the stunning Hollywood Glam home we featured in a previous article. Well, that client came back to us with an exciting new challenge--and a tight deadline.
He had just purchased a vacation property in New Smyrna Beach, completely sight unseen. The goal? Have it guest-ready before the holidays. Most of the home was already furnished, but two bedrooms needed our attention, and the client wanted something special--a unique feature that would make visitors remember this beach house long after they checked out.
This is exactly the kind of custom vacation home design project we love!
A Bunk Room Built for Adventure
One of the bedrooms needed to accommodate a crowd. Families traveling to the beach often bring everyone--kids, cousins, grandparents--and having flexible sleeping arrangements can make or break a property's appeal.
My team built custom bunk beds designed to maximize the space while creating a room that feels intentional, not improvised. We went with a navy blue and red nautical theme that nods to the coastal location without veering into kitschy territory. The result is a space that kids love and parents appreciate--sturdy, stylish, and perfectly suited for a beach house.
Crisp white shiplap on the walls beside the bunk beds complete the look, adding texture and that classic coastal charm.
A Serene Retreat for Grown-Ups
The second bedroom called for a different approach entirely. While not the master suite, this room needed to feel like a true retreat for adult guests--a placed to unwind after long days on the sand.
We designed the space around a palette of soft creams with contemporary, crisp lines that give the room a fresh and modern feel. Blue and tan bedding brings in just enough coastal warmth to remind you that you're steps from the Atlantic, while the overall aesthetic stays sophisticated and calming. It's the kind of room where you actually want to sleep in.
The Mural That Makes Memories
Now for the showstopper.
Our client wanted something guests would talk about, photograph, and remember. We brought in a talented mural artist to transform the wall beside the pool into a celebration of everything that makes New Smyrna Beach special.
The mural features the Atlantic Ocean, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and surfers catching waves--a scene that captures the laid-back spirit of this beloved beach town. The centerpiece is the iconic Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, located just across the inlet from New Smyrna Beach. Standing as the second tallest masonry lighthouse in the country and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1998, it remains a destination for visitors from around the world. Having it featured in the mural gives guests a beautiful visual connection to the area's history and charm.
And here's another fun detail: there's a basketball hoop built right into the center of the mural. Guests swimming in the pool can shoot hoops against that gorgeous backdrop. It's playful, unexpected, and exactly the kind of detail that elevates a property from nice to unforgettable.
Custom Vacation Home Design That Delivers
This project reminded me why I love this work. Every design choice serves a purpose--comfort, functionality, and that little spark of magic that turns a house into an experience.
Whether you're preparing a vacation property for guests, updating a second home, or simply want spaces that feel both beautiful and functional, custom vacation home design can make all the difference.
I'd love to chat about how we can transform your space!
Call me for a free consultation at (407) 743-2399 or email me at carmen@sohointeriordesign.com
