Creating a Tropical Haven in Suburban Naperville

For many, Jimmy Buffett’s iconic 1977 song “Margaritaville” evokes sun-soaked images of the Florida Keys or a coastal beach in South Carolina. Yet, envisioning such a paradise in a two-story, brick colonial house on Barkdoll Road in suburban Naperville might seem improbable. However, 65-year-old Phillip Schutt, an avid Buffett fan, has embraced this concept by transforming his home into a tropical retreat.

Schutt named his home “Naperitaville” as a nod to Buffett’s ideology that coastal living transcends geographical boundaries. “Jimmy Buffett proved coastal living is not just a location but a frame of mind,” explained Schutt, who works as a portfolio manager. His home embodies this escapism with more than 90 ocean-themed items in his garage alone.

**Garage Paradise**

In Schutt’s garage, signs with cheerful messages like “It’s 5 o’clock somewhere” and “Sunny Drinks for Shady People” line the walls. A yellow model plane reminiscent of Buffett’s “Hemisphere Dancer” seaplane hangs from the ceiling, setting a carefree atmosphere. Schutt’s commitment to coastal aesthetics extends beyond the garage.

**Expanding the Oasis**

The sunroom adopts a coastal farmhouse style, while nautical elements adorn the deck. Below lies a stone patio that he built as a tribute to Charleston, South Carolina. Schutt’s fascination with beach culture began in the late 1970s, spurred by a friend’s introduction to Buffett’s music.

“Back then, we used sun maximizer, not sunscreen,” Schutt recalled. His admiration for Buffett grew due to the musician’s representation of the beach lifestyle.

**Crafting with Care**

Schutt’s love for building mirrors his father’s, a “stock-and-bond guy” who taught him the value of constructing and fixing things with his own hands. “I love the process of building,” he shared. Completing projects excites Schutt as he envisions each piece’s assembly.

**The Birth of Naperitaville**

Naperitaville originated from a simple desire to display a stuffed monkey from his sales job. Unsure of where to place it, Schutt built a lifeguard chair for the monkey, laying the foundation for his tropical escape. Over the years, Schutt added items like a treasure chest and a horse trough converted into a mobile cooler.

“I saw the model seaplane at a liquor store, and I knew I had to have it,” Schutt recounted. After several unsuccessful eBay attempts, he won it with a $300 bid.

**A Hidden Gem**

Despite his extensive collection, Schutt rarely shares his oasis with others. A YouTube video briefly showcases his decor, yet he avoids public tours, focusing instead on personal enjoyment. Schutt’s suburban escape proves that geographical limitations cannot hinder the coastal lifestyle.

“The music and setting transport me to my happy place,” Schutt concluded, finding respite in his landlocked state through the spirit of Margaritaville.