A Modern Take on Southern Charm: Building a Mid-Term Rental Duplex in Rocky Mount,NC

In the heart of Rocky Mount, NC, where the pace is slower and the charm is undeniable, we saw an opportunity to create something unique. We envisioned a modern duplex designed specifically for traveling professionals. This duplex is part of a 10-unit development that Hykal Homes has built. While others questioned why we’d build such a structure in a small town, we saw what others couldn’t—the potential to transform a community and cater to a growing demand for stylish, comfortable mid-term rentals.

This duplex combines Southern charm with a contemporary twist, offering traveling nurses, professionals, and interns a "home away from home." Here’s how we brought this vision to life.

Building for a Purpose: Why Mid-Term Rentals?

Mid-term rentals cater to guests staying a month or more, a niche market distinct from short- term vacation rentals. With Rocky Mount growing as a hub for professionals and temporary assignments, we knew there was a demand for spaces that felt like home.

Our vision was to provide:

 Comfort: Spaces designed to feel inviting and livable for extended stays.

 Style: Eye-catching interiors that stand out on platforms like Airbnb, enticing potential
guests at first glance.

 Functionality: Thoughtful layouts and modern conveniences tailored to the needs of
traveling professionals.

Designing with the Community in Mind

We wanted this duplex to seamlessly blend into the Southern charm of Rocky Mount while introducing a modern edge. From foundation, to framing, to electrical/plumbing/HVAC, we were able to build this duplex in only 4 short months. We knew that this was an asset that the community needed and we applied all of our resources to bring this project to reality.

The Exterior:

 Timeless Appeal: The exterior design features clean lines and a bright color palette that
harmonizes with the surrounding neighborhood.

 Landscaping: We added greenery and walkways to enhance curb appeal and create a
welcoming atmosphere.

Why Rocky Mount?

Rocky Mount’s proximity to major cities, its growing downtown area, and its affordability make it an ideal location for traveling professionals. Building here wasn’t just about adding a duplex; it was about contributing to the revitalization of a community on the rise.

Interiors That Feel Like Home

For the interior design, we focused on creating spaces that combine function, comfort, and a touch of luxury.

Kitchen:

 Modern Features: Soft-close gray cabinets with sleek black hardware and quartz
countertops
 High-End Appliances: Full-size stainless-steel appliances to accommodate long stays.
 Design Details: A stylish backsplash and pendant lighting add a touch of personality.

Living Areas:

 Accent Walls: Bold, modern accent walls create a focal point and bring character to the
space.
 Comfortable Furniture: Thoughtfully selected pieces that balance style and coziness,
perfect for unwinding after a long day at work.

Bathrooms:

 Spacious Layouts: Ample space for getting ready in the mornings, with sleek fixtures and
finishes.
 Design Touches: Fun tile patterns and pops of color bring life to these practical spaces.

Furnishing to Stand Out

With mid-term rentals, the first impression often comes from the photos posted online. To attract guests, we carefully curated furniture and décor that balances functionality with Instagram- worthy style.

 Vibrant Furniture: Pops of color in the furniture and textiles create a warm, inviting vibe.
 Layered Lighting: Statement light fixtures in the dining and living areas add
sophistication.

 Durable Materials: Pieces were chosen not only for their beauty but also for their
durability, ensuring they hold up to frequent use.

Creating a Community Asset

This duplex isn’t just about housing professionals—it’s about elevating the neighborhood. By investing in thoughtful design and quality construction, we’ve created a ripple effect:

 Attracting new visitors to Rocky Mount.
 Supporting local businesses with foot traffic from guests staying near downtown.
 Inspiring others to see the potential in overlooked spaces.

The Final Product: A Home Away from Home

With this duplex, we’ve created a space that checks all the boxes for our ideal guest:

 Proximity to downtown and local amenities.
 Interiors designed to offer the comfort of home with the sophistication of a boutique
hotel.
 A layout that encourages relaxation while providing everything needed for a productive
stay.

Why Hykal Homes?

At Hykal Homes, we specialize in seeing potential where others see limitations. This duplex in Rocky Mount is proof that even in the smallest of towns, there’s room for innovation and transformation. Whether you’re building for short-term or mid-term rentals, we can help you create spaces that attract guests and elevate communities.

Ready to build your vision? Contact us today to start your next project!
Click here to take a tour of the interior of this Duplex: