Stepping into Rob DePiazza’s home is like embarking on a nostalgic journey back to the vibrant era of the 1960s pop art revolution. As you walk through the door, you’re immediately enveloped by an explosion of colors, bold patterns, and striking art pieces reminiscent of Andy Warhol and Keith Haring. The living space not only showcases DePiazza’s love for pop culture, but also steeply embodies the mid-century modern design trend.
A Unique Architectural Marvel
Rob DePiazza’s creation is not just a house; it’s an artistic statement that simultaneously serves as a living space and an exhibit. Nestled in a quiet St. Augustine neighborhood characterized by traditional old Florida stuccos and split-level ranch homes, DePiazza’s abode commands attention. Constructed from nine shipping containers, the house exhibits raw thematics, proudly flaunting rusted metal and the remnants of industrial aesthetics. The careful arrangement and design of the containers reflect a labor of love and a commitment to innovation in a typical suburban landscape.
When Hurricane Irma swept through in 2017, it destroyed DePiazza’s home of over three decades, providing the impetus for him to dream bigger and bolder with his architectural ambitions. Completed in February 2021, the “Prince Road Container House” (PRCH) represents not only a personal restoration but also a commitment to recycling and reimagining materials often dismissed.
Making It Available to Others
Initially meant to serve as a family home, DePiazza soon recognized the allure of his artistic haven. He decided to rent it out on Airbnb during times when he travels, allowing others to experience its unique charm. After securing the necessary permits, his listing swiftly hit the platform, attracting high levels of curiosity from potential guests. As DePiazza explains, “A lot of people are always very curious about it, especially what it’s like on the inside.”
In recent years, there has been a surge in interest for unique accommodations, with Airbnb reporting a 47% increase in nights booked at out-of-the-ordinary spaces in 2021 compared to 2019. DePiazza’s PRCH fits neatly within this trend, ready to appeal to adventurous travelers looking to experience something truly different.
An Eclectic Interior
Guests who choose to stay at the PRCH enjoy an impressive 1,600 square feet of creatively designed living space. With accommodations for up to six people, the house features a landing-pad lounge with retro furnishings, a vintage 1957 jukebox, and a fun retro-style dining booth. The carefully curated interior design is complemented by a high-end BOSE sound system, a state-of-the-art Viking gas range, and an extensive collection of art that thrives on nostalgia and playfulness.
The PRCH also boasts unusual deck space, complete with barbecue facilities and kayaks for those eager to explore the nearby waterways. For $350 a night, guests are granted exclusive access not only to a uniquely designed home but also a fantastic experience.
Collaboration and Creativity
What sets DePiazza’s home apart is the collaborative effort involved in its design. With the guidance of architect Stephen Bender, the concept of a shipping container residence transitioned from a mere idea into a fully realized project. Rob’s passion for art, honed through years in his graphics screen-printing business, informed many of the design choices that characterize the interior. His daughter, Gisella, a sophomore at the University of Florida, also played a vital role in shaping the design. Together, they curated a space that reflects their artistic visions and enhances the home’s welcoming yet avant-garde vibe.
According to Gisella, her peers are often enamored by the uniqueness of their living space, aligning with a broader cultural trend that favors individualistic designs. In many ways, the home stands as an inspiration for those looking to embrace originality in their living environments.
The Future of PRCH
DePiazza’s ambition doesn’t just end with his own travels; he hopes his home will allow him to explore new destinations while simultaneously sharing his beloved creation with others. With the PRCH already booked for the holidays, it’s clear that demand for such unique accommodations surpasses expectations.
In sum, Rob DePiazza’s shipping container home in St. Augustine is a brilliant mix of art, nostalgia, and modern design. It not only captures elements of a vibrant artistic era long past but also exemplifies how family, creativity, and innovation can converge to reshape our living spaces. As travelers seek novel experiences, the PRCH promises an unforgettable stay that is anything but ordinary. Whether viewed as a home or a living museum, it resonates loudly with life, creativity, and history, inviting everyone who steps through its doors to engage with its story.
