**Inside the Enchanting Belle House: A Living Fairytale in Florida**
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Nestled within Orlando’s Golden Oaks community, Cristie Anne and her family have transformed their home into a whimsical homage to Disney, specifically drawing inspiration from the beloved animated classic, *Beauty and the Beast*. Known online as the Traveling Red, Cristie Anne embarked on this adventure when her parents introduced her to the charming property that would become their dream getaway.
Having settled into their new abode over the Thanksgiving weekend of 2020, the family’s journey in the Belle House has been nothing short of magical. Designed by Disney Imagineers to reflect Belle’s iconic cottage, the home boasts a plethora of whimsical features—over 50 hidden Mickey Mouse motifs, intricate hand-painted details, and room themes that encapsulate the spirit of various Disney tales.
Cristie Anne recalls the initial excitement of the purchase, stating, “The first year we focused on decorating. The downstairs was mostly ready, but we took our time to personalise the upstairs from scratch.” The transformation started shortly after closing, with the essential pieces of furniture, including mattresses for the upstairs bedrooms, arriving almost immediately. The family has since added unique decor, such as a vintage statue of Bashful from *Snow White*.
The home is divided into themed quarters, with each bedroom reflecting different Disney narratives. “We have the Belle Room, the Winnie the Pooh Room, and the Bambi Room,” Cristie Anne explains. The Belle Room, retaining its original blue paint and rustic French design, features a quote from the film elegantly positioned above the bed. The Winnie the Pooh Room incorporates rustic wooden beams, with charming illustrations of beloved characters adorning the walls, while the Bambi Room is enhanced with floral touches and woodland designs to match its rustic bunk beds.
The third floor offers a unique charm, complete with pitched ceilings that allow views of the nearby Magic Kingdom fireworks. Initially envisioned as an adult retreat, it has instead evolved into a playful sanctuary for the children—Cristie Anne affectionately refers to it as a reading room, although it primarily serves as a play area.
The adjacent guest house, called “The Princess Quarters,” further enriches the Disney experience. The space includes enchanting details like murals of Chip and Mrs. Potts, an Alice in Wonderland-themed doorknob, and adorable depictions of Ariel and her companions decorating the bathroom. Through a variety of princess artwork and motifs, Cristie Anne has ensured that visitors feel as though they are stepping directly into a fairytale.
Every corner of the house showcases notable Disney elements, with Cristie Anne noting, “It truly feels like you’re living inside a storybook.” The railings leading to the third floor are adorned with characters from *Beauty and the Beast*, while hidden Mickeys are cleverly incorporated into the home’s designs. Children are particularly fascinated by the hunt for these Mickeys, which may be discovered through artful distressing on the walls or subtle carvings in the furniture.
Despite residing in the Belle House for over five years, Cristie Anne is enthusiastic about continually adding new pieces and sourcing unique items to enhance their surroundings. The home has become much more than just a residence; it serves as a cherished gathering place for her family—a hub that has nurtured close relationships among the children, making the space truly special.
When they first bought the house, her daughter was just three years old, the only grandchild at the time. Since then, family dynamics have expanded, with a niece and a cousin’s daughter joining the family circle. Cristie Anne reflects, “This home has become their favourite place, and I truly don’t think the cousins would be this incredibly close if it weren’t for the Belle House.” The shared experiences and memories created within its walls have forged bonds akin to sisterhood among the three girls.
In Cristie Anne’s words, “The Belle House has created the most beautiful relationship between the girls. I’m incredibly grateful that even though my brother, my cousin, and I each only have one child, they still get to experience that sister-like bond.” The home acts as a nurturing backdrop for these young girls to enjoy their childhood-creating memories intertwined with the enchantment of Disney storytelling.
As Cristie Anne continues to embellish their fairytale home, it becomes evident that the Belle House is more than a residence; it is a living testament to imagination, family unity, and the magic that can be found in embracing one’s inner child. With each new addition to the decor, the house remains a beloved landmark of creativity and love for all who enter its doors.