Some projects just make you smile from start to finish—and this Hollywood Glam vacation rental is one of them.

My son Jonathan and I had the pleasure of transforming this Orlando property into a true showstopper, complete with a one-of-a-kind surprise: an entire room converted into an "America's Got Talent"-style stage, complete with audience seating, a judges' table with working buzzers, and a dressing area for guests ready for their close-up.

When it comes to vacation rental design, creating a memorable experience is everything. And this home? It delivers drama, fun, and glamour in every room.

Let me take you on a tour...

A Grand Entrance With a Secret Surprise

Every great Orlando vacation rental design starts at the front door—and this one makes an unforgettable first impression.

The entry foyer welcomes guests with elegance and warmth, setting the tone for the glamour that awaits throughout the home. We painted the entire first floor in Sherwin-Williams 9142 Moscow Midnight, a stunning blue teal that strikes the perfect balance between dramatic and inviting. It's the kind of color that feels sophisticated without being cold—exactly right for a Hollywood-inspired retreat.

But the real showstopper? That red telephone booth.

It looks like a striking vintage décor piece, but step inside and you'll discover it's actually a hidden passageway leading to the home's America's Got Talent Theater. It's the kind of playful, unexpected detail that turns a vacation rental into an experience guests will talk about long after they check out.

A Hallway Straight Out of Hollywood

Step through the red telephone booth and you're instantly transported. The hallway beyond looks like it belongs on a Hollywood set—moody, cinematic, and full of anticipation for what's around the corner.

From here, guests choose their own adventure. Turn one way and you'll find a fully equipped arcade room. Turn the other and you'll enter the America's Got Talent Theater, complete with stage, judges' table, and working buzzers.

Whether your guests want to battle it out on a classic arcade game or perform for a crowd, this home has it covered. It's the kind of thoughtful Orlando vacation rental design that appeals to every age, every personality, and every mood—giving families and groups a reason to put the phones down and make memories together.

Picture-Perfect Memories

No Hollywood home is complete without a photo op—and this one delivers. A small alcove was transformed into a dedicated photo booth space, featuring a custom mural of the iconic Hollywood sign. Pair that with a portable photo booth machine (a great Amazon find!), and guests have everything they need to capture vacation memories in style.

Strike a pose, snap a pic, and watch your friends back home wonder if you've jetted off to California. It's a simple, fun touch that guests absolutely love—and the kind of thoughtful detail that sets great Orlando vacation rental design apart from the rest.

Hollywood Glamour Meets Everyday Comfort

The home's main living space proves that glamour and functionality go hand in hand. The open floor plan flows effortlessly from a spacious kitchen to a generous living area with plenty of room for dining—perfect for groups gathering after a day at the parks or a night of performances in the theater just steps away.

It's a space designed for real life—cooking together, sharing meals, relaxing on the sofa—all while feeling like you've escaped to somewhere extraordinary. That's the magic of smart Orlando vacation rental design: every room works as hard as it wows.

The walls continue in that gorgeous Sherwin-Williams Moscow Midnight. PRO designer tip: the trim and baseboards are painted in the same color, creating a seamless, elevated look that makes the ceilings feel higher and the space feel more intentional. Against this rich blue teal backdrop, modern furnishings and carefully chosen décor keep the Hollywood Glam motif alive without feeling over the top.

The Primary Suite: Elegant Retreat

After a day of arcade battles and stage performances, every guest deserves a beautiful place to unwind. Two primary suites deliver an elegant yet comfortable retreat that feels like a five-star escape.

The walls in the room featured below are painted in Sherwin-Williams 6279 Black Swan, a deep blue that brings a sense of calm and sophistication to the space. It's the perfect complement to the Moscow Midnight used throughout the main floor—different enough to feel special, but still in harmony with the home's overall palette.

Thoughtful touches and quality furnishings make this suite feel luxurious without being fussy. It's exactly the kind of space that elevates an Orlando vacation rental design from ordinary to unforgettable.

Old Hollywood With a Playful Twist

This guest suite brings the Hollywood Glam theme to life in the most delightful way. The walls are painted in Sherwin-Williams 6741 Derbyshire, a rich, moody green that feels both bold and inviting.

But it's the artwork that really steals the show. Fun pop art portraits of Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn—each blowing a bubble like they're chewing bubblegum—add a cheeky, unexpected twist to these timeless icons. It's playful, it's stylish, and it's the kind of detail that makes guests smile every time they walk in.

Elegant enough for grown-ups, fun enough to feel like a getaway—this room captures everything great Orlando vacation rental design should be.

The Kids' Retreat: Adventure Awaits

The little guests get their own taste of Hollywood magic—starting with a Jaws-themed bedroom that's equal parts thrilling and fun. The room channels those classic summer blockbuster vibes with a nautical twist, complete with an Amity Island poster that fans will instantly recognize.

The star of the room? Boat-shaped beds with oars mounted on the sides, ready to set sail into dreamland. It's imaginative, playful, and exactly the kind of detail that makes kids excited about bedtime—a vacation rental miracle if there ever was one.

This room was one of my favorites to design alongside my son Jonathan, and working on it together made it even more special. Great Orlando vacation rental design is about creating joy—and this space delivers it in waves.

Jurassic Park: Where Adventure Roars to Life

Next door, young explorers will find a Jurassic Park-inspired bedroom that's pure movie magic. The beds are designed to look like the iconic jeeps from the film—because who wouldn't want to drift off to sleep behind the wheel of a dinosaur expedition vehicle?

And here's where smart design meets Hollywood fun: a murphy bed tucks neatly into the wall, giving kids extra play space during the day and additional sleeping room when needed. It's a practical solution that keeps the room feeling open and versatile without sacrificing an ounce of adventure.

From Jaws to Jurassic Park, these kids' retreats prove that great Orlando vacation rental design isn't just for the grown-ups. Every guest—no matter how small—deserves a little blockbuster magic.

Steal the Look: Create Your Own Hollywood Glam Moment

Love the Hollywood Glam aesthetic? Here's a designer tip you can try at home.

In the main living area, we created a stunning focal point above a console piece using a simple but effective trick. Instead of hanging a single mirror or piece of art, I had a carpenter build two long rectangular frames on either side of the central artwork. Inside each frame, I placed decorative mirrors I found on Wayfair—an affordable way to add instant glamour and dimension to the wall.

Not a mirror person? Try filling the frames with a bold wallpaper instead. The bordered effect creates architecture and visual interest where there was none, turning an ordinary wall into something truly custom.

It's the kind of detail that makes guests stop and notice—and it's completely achievable in your own home. Great Orlando vacation rental design (or any design, really) is often about these thoughtful, unexpected touches that elevate a space from nice to unforgettable.

Ready for Your Standing Ovation?

This Hollywood Glam vacation rental was a true labor of love—and getting to design it alongside my son Jonathan made it even more rewarding. From the secret telephone booth entrance to the Jaws and Jurassic Park bedrooms, every detail was chosen to create an experience guests will never forget.

That's what great Orlando vacation rental design is all about. It's not just picking pretty furniture or trendy paint colors. It's about understanding how guests will move through a space, what will make them smile, and what will keep them coming back—and telling all their friends.

Whether you're looking to transform a vacation rental into a showstopper or simply want to bring a little more glamour into your own home, I'd love to help you make it happen.

Let's create something unforgettable together. Contact Soho Interior Design today.  You can reach me by calling me at (407) 743-2399 or emailing me at carmen@sohointeriordesign.com. for a free consultation.

In today's competitive vacation rental market, themed rooms have become the secret weapon for property owners looking to stand out from the crowd and command premium rates. These immersive spaces don't just provide accommodation—they create unforgettable experiences that guests eagerly share on social media and return to year after year. When my son Jonathan and I took on our latest challenge, a vacation rental property near Disney World, we knew that creating magical themed rooms would be the key to transforming an ordinary rental into an extraordinary escape.

The numbers don't lie: vacation rentals featuring unique, well-designed themed spaces consistently see 30-40% higher booking rates and can command 25% higher nightly rates than traditional properties. Guests aren't just looking for a place to sleep—they're seeking an experience that extends the magic of their vacation right into their accommodations.

The Under the Sea Room: An Aquatic Adventure Awaits

Step into this enchanting space, and you'll instantly feel transported to a vibrant underwater kingdom. The walls in this themed room come alive with hand-painted underwater scenes featuring schools of colorful tropical fish, swaying seaweed, and coral formations that seem to dance in imaginary ocean currents.

 The sleeping arrangement is nothing short of spectacular—beds are cleverly nestled within a custom loft featuring a charming cross-over bridge that adds an element of adventure to bedtime. For moments of relaxation, a hammock provides the perfect spot to "float" and dream of underwater adventures.

The true genius lies in the custom-designed roller shade that covers the room's window. This thoughtful addition maintains the continuous underwater ambiance, ensuring that even natural light filters through with an oceanic glow.

The Playhouse Room: Where Little Dreams Come to Life

Every little girl has dreamed of having her own playhouse, and this room makes that fantasy a beautiful reality. This themed room goes beyond traditional bedroom design to create a genuine playhouse experience where children can actually sleep within their fairy tale.

The space captures the whimsical charm of a storybook cottage, complete with architectural details that make guests feel like they've shrunk down to dollhouse size. Soft pastels, charming details, and child-scaled furnishings combine to create an environment where imagination runs wild and bedtime becomes the highlight of the day. There’s even a slide for indoor fun!

Recreation Room: The Ultimate Family Entertainment Hub

The true showstopper in this themed room is the one-of-a-kind putt putt table—a custom creation that's sure to become the stuff of vacation legends. This innovative piece appears to be a fun pool table at first glance, but in reality is a unique miniature golf course that challenges players of all ages. It's more than just a game; it's a conversation starter, an Instagram moment, and a memory-maker all rolled into one stunning piece of functional art.

Creating Magic That Pays Dividends

The Enchanted Escape Project showcases how strategic design thinking can transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences. My approach to themed rooms demonstrates that successful vacation rental design isn't just about aesthetics—it's about creating environments that generate emotions, memories, and ultimately, return bookings.

Each room serves its purpose beautifully while delivering the kind of magical experience that turns first-time guests into lifelong advocates for your property.

When you invest in thoughtfully designed themed rooms, you're not just decorating spaces—you're crafting experiences that command premium rates, generate stellar reviews, and keep your calendar booked months in advance. The Enchanted Escape Project proves that with the right design partner, any vacation rental can become a destination in its own right.

Ready to transform your vacation rental into a magical escape? Contact Carmen Dick at Soho Interior Design to discover how themed room design can elevate your property's appeal and profitability. You can reach me by calling me at (407) 743-2399 or emailing me at carmen@sohointeriordesign.com. for a free consultation. 

Sometimes the difference between a house that sits on the market and one that sells quickly isn't the property itself—it's knowing exactly what buyers want to see. That's precisely what happened with a stunning 1967 mid-century modern home in Maitland, Florida, where my interior design expertise and renovation guidance turned a struggling listing into a success story that had buyers falling in love before we even officially relaunched it.

When "As Is" Isn't Enough

The story began in 2024 when a homeowner decided to sell his mid-century modern gem in one of Maitland's most desirable neighborhoods. Like many sellers, he initially thought the home's bones would speak for themselves. After all, mid-century architecture has a devoted following, and the location was prime. 

Months passed. Despite price reductions, the home generated little interest. The reality? Today's buyers—even those who appreciate vintage architecture—want to envision themselves living in a space, not renovating one. That's when the homeowner made a pivotal decision: take the house off the market and invest in strategic improvements.

The Power of Professional Interior Design Expertise

This is where my expertise became invaluable. When the homeowner contracted me to handle the re-listing, I brought more than just real estate knowledge to the table. My trained designer's eye immediately identified which updates would deliver the biggest impact with buyers—and which ones would be worth the investment. I don't just sell houses—I help homeowners understand what buyers are actually looking for in today's market. It's not about the most expensive renovations; it's about the smartest ones.

We gave this mid-century gem a total facelift that would make any design magazine jealous! Beautiful new flooring created seamless flow throughout the home, while fresh paint in sophisticated neutrals made every space feel larger and brighter. Strategic light fixture updates added modern functionality with vintage charm, and tailored window treatments provided the perfect finishing touch. Every single element was carefully chosen to highlight the home's architectural character.

Formal Dining Room: These contemporary doors not only enhanced the room's functionality but also amplified its sophisticated appeal, making it feel both intimate for family meals and expansive for entertaining. 

One of my most valuable assets proved to be my network of trusted contractors. Finding reliable professionals can make or break a pre-sale renovation timeline, but my established relationships meant quality work could begin immediately.

Having contractors you trust is everything in this business. I've worked with these professionals on multiple projects, so I know their work quality, their timelines, and their pricing. That takes all the guesswork out of the equation for my clients.

Bathroom renovations consistently rank among the highest return-on-investment home improvements, and for good reason. These hardworking spaces get daily use from every family member, so buyers notice every detail—from outdated fixtures to worn surfaces. A thoughtfully renovated bathroom doesn't just add monetary value; it eliminates a major buyer objection and transforms a necessity into a luxury retreat that helps buyers envision their daily routines in the space.

There's a reason real estate agents say 'kitchens sell homes'—studies show that 87% of buyers consider the kitchen the most important room when house hunting. This central gathering space sets the tone for how buyers perceive the entire property. When they see outdated cabinets and worn countertops, they're calculating renovation costs. But when they encounter sleek appliances, beautiful countertops, and smart storage solutions, they're envisioning their life in the space and mentally moving in.

My Strategic Design Approach

My approach to pre-sale improvements reflects my understanding of buyer psychology and design principles. Rather than generic updates, I recommended specific renovations that would appeal to buyers seeking mid-century modern homes while ensuring the property felt move-in ready.

I was developing a comprehensive marketing strategy that would showcase the completed renovations, including plans for a major open house event specifically for other real estate agents—a proven technique for generating buzz and multiple showings. When agents are excited about a property, their enthusiasm translates directly to their buyer clients.

The Unexpected Plot Twist

Sometimes the best design guidance creates results faster than expected. Just as I was preparing to execute my comprehensive marketing plan, serendipity struck. A couple who had been searching the neighborhood spotted the house and asked for a showing.

Even though renovations weren't completely finished, my interior design expertise had already guided the transformation enough that the couple could envision their future there. The strategic improvements we'd made spoke directly to what mid-century modern buyers were seeking—updated functionality while preserving the home's architectural character.

The result? SOLD—before we even officially relaunched the listing!

How Interior Design Expertise Made the Difference

This success story illustrates why my approach works so effectively. It's not just about listing a property; it's about understanding market psychology, knowing which improvements matter most, and having the professional network to execute changes efficiently.

Every house has a story, and my job is to help that story appeal to the right buyer. Sometimes that means strategic improvements, sometimes it means creative staging, and sometimes it means being ready when the perfect buyers appear unexpectedly.

For homeowners considering a sale, this Maitland success offers valuable lessons. The right agent brings more than marketing expertise—we bring design insight, contractor connections, and the ability to position your property for maximum appeal.

Whether your home needs a complete transformation or just strategic touches, the key is working with someone who understands both the design elements that create emotional connection and the market realities that drive sales decisions.

Ready to sell your home? My proven combination of interior design expertise and real estate savvy could be exactly what your property needs to go from listing to SOLD. You can reach me by calling me at (407) 743-2399 or emailing me at carmen@sohointeriordesign.com. for a free consultation.