A Minimalist Seafront House in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, Steps Away from Bondi Beach
AD Italia, March, 2024
A Minimalist Seafront House in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, Steps Away from Bondi Beach
Overlooking the cliffs and Tamarama Beach, this contemporary version of a beach house offers breathtaking views of the ocean. Completely redesigned by Nina Maya Interiors, this coastal villa was created to accommodate a family of five who travel frequently and seek a base on Sydney’s magnificent coast, a retreat of relaxation and minimalist luxury. “The natural environment around the residence spontaneously inspired the décor to create an intentionally serene and tranquil atmosphere that doesn’t detract from the breathtaking view,” says interior designer Nina Maya. We quickly learn that “complete renovation” is not an overstatement when it comes to Cove House, the name the owners have given their minimalist home. Its five levels have been entirely revamped, including the creation of a private cinema room and a super modern wellness area comprising a gym with cold immersion equipment and an infrared sauna.
Soft and Relaxing Tones
Walking through the rooms, literally open to the landscape thanks to full-width and full-height windows that disappear into the walls—not to mention the transparent terrace railings—one feels a sense of serenity and calm generated by the shades of white, milk, blue, and pastel greys that Nina Maya has introduced floor by floor in a delicate monochrome that is her trademark. Everywhere, natural woods, arabesque marble, and travertine create a neutral palette, a base that allows the art and furniture to remain at the center of attention. Like the large-format artwork in the main living room, which sets the tone for the raw and sensual minimalism that repeats room by room throughout the vast house.
Neutral Minimalism
“Bringing some of our heavier marble furniture into the house was a real challenge. The solid marble coffee table in the living room alone weighs more than a ton. It had to be hoisted up three floors by crane, a true tour de force.” The house features many, if not all, custom furniture pieces designed by Nina Maya Interiors. Dining tables, coffee tables, bedside tables, outdoor sofas, rugs… Even the lighting in the spacious living room. The natural elegance of the furniture is highlighted by luminous works by British artist Max Patte and alabaster lamps and chandeliers by Canadian artist Randy Zieber, along with pieces by local artists Marissa Purcell, Tan Arlidge, and Henryk Studio.
Serenity and Relaxation
Only the cinema room stands out from the rest, with its aubergine-coloured velvet for the chairs, carpet, and wall coverings. Here, Nina Maya wanted to play with a refined “cocoon” spirit and the codes of vintage cinemas, completed with alabaster and crystal sconces. Returning outside, we reach the pool and its living wall, which, combined with large planters and integrated tubs, brings the vegetation closer to the house and repositions it in its natural environment. And don’t forget that we are just steps away from the beach, so you can fall asleep to the sound of the ocean waves, day or night.
