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A quirky holiday rental attracts visitors from all over due to its distinctive design and the remarkable backstory of its creation.
Rob DePiazza’s home of three decades was destroyed in 2017 by Hurricane Irma, as a massive oak tree toppled onto the house while he and his daughter were inside.
Two days later he decided to build a container house, and what was initially a temporary fix became a statement in modern architecture.
DePiazza completed the Prince Road Container House (PRCH), which sits in St Augustine, Florida, in February 2020.
This bold initiative redefines the concept of a container home. DePiazza aimed to transform the utilitarian structures into a ‘vibrant, creative, and welcoming space.’
Travelers from around the globe visit PRCH to experience the unique design, retro feel, and modern art it houses.
The house has been recognized recently, earning the 9th spot on the top 10 Airbnbs in the US and ranking as Florida’s top-rated rental, according to News 4 Jax.
The 1,600 square-foot property has space for six guests, with three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Rob DePiazza’s home was destroyed in Hurricane Irma in 2017, and he instantly began building his next home with shipping containers
The home has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, and is highlighted for its unique style
The container house was ranked 9th in the country and 1st in Florida
The outside mural is a metaphor for the destruction of his first home, with the person blowing supposedly representing Hurricane Irma
The inside of the house has unique pieces and boasts an almost endless list of amenities
One feature wall is covered in plant pots while a metal balcony gives guest a view of the surrounding woodland
The space features 67 amenities, including special perks such as a private sauna, balcony, bikes, and an in-home gym.
The interior of the rental includes almost entirely the original paint from the shipping container.
DePiazza wanted the home to retain its original feel, allowing the scuffs and marks to tell its story.
‘The overall theme of the PRCH is to reveal and celebrate materials and construction techniques that are typically concealed, DePiazza told Apartment Therapy.
The exterior of the house is decorated with jazzy murals, while the interior has an eclectic and vintage feel, featuring jukeboxes, colorful art and 1950s-era streetlights.
‘In the end, I wanted to create a home that’s not just a house, but a vibrant, cheerful, creative, and inviting space that celebrates living and doesn’t take itself too seriously; a coda I have tried to live by for as long as I can remember,’ DePiazza said.
The space is described on Airbnb as ‘an amazing combination of unique, warm, colorful and imaginative furnishings, decor and art.
The space features 67 amenities, including special perks such as a private sauna, balcony, bikes, and an in-home gym
The property has a private sauna that can fit four people
One of two bathrooms within the home, which also features unique pieces
The house reviews are flooded with positive comments highlighting how much the guest enjoyed their stay
Quirky pieces are spread throughout the house and pictured clearly on the listing on Airbnb
‘There are special spaces throughout the house, like the cozy landing overlooking the living room, perfect for intimate conversations, reading, or watching the abundant nature out the floor-to-ceiling windows.’
The homeowner was honored to be featured in YouTuber Ryan Trahan’s 50 States in 50 Days campaign, which said DePiazza’s home had the nicest interior he had stayed in.
The house reviews are flooded with positive comments: ‘The place was exactly as advertised. Very unique decorations, and comfortable place to stay.’
Another guest simply said: ‘We loved the container house!’
A third added: ‘This was by far the best experience to have had with an Airbnb, set the bar really high and I would 10/10 recommend, even if it’s for one night. ‘
Multiple outlets have recognized the home, and it has its own Instagram account.
