Saying coast without saying coast

Designed by Jamie Durrant, Durrant Design for Mike Greer Homes Marlborough 

From the designer:

The vision was to create a bathroom that captured the feeling of a boutique coastal retreat for our retired homeowners to enjoy – calm, refined and luxurious – without relying on obvious coastal themes. 

Rather than filling the space with decorative elements, the design embraced a philosophy of restraint, allowing carefully selected materials, sculptural forms and subtle layering to create a timeless design.

Feature tiles lead the design

The defining design decision centred around the Raku feature tiles. 

While the owner was initially torn between the soft sand tone and the striking ocean blue, I encouraged her to embrace the blue as the hero of the space. 

The richer tone creates depth and personality, while subtly reflecting the surrounding coastal landscape seen from their expansive views of Atawhai Beach. 

This connection continues beyond the bathroom through custom cushions, luxurious bedding, textured throws, bespoke drapery and travertine stone bedside lamps. 

Together, these carefully curated elements create a seamless transition between the spaces, delivering a sophisticated interpretation of coastal living that feels contemporary rather than themed.

Working alongside Mike Greer Homes trusted suppliers, each specification was carefully considered to elevate the standard build. 

Curved vanity improves flow and builds on aesthetic

Replacing the standard vanity with a timber veneer curved design became one of the project's defining moments. 

In a compact bathroom, the absence of sharp corners improves movement through the space, while the furniture-inspired form immediately elevates the overall aesthetic.

Material selection was equally important. 

The vanity was finished in a warm Canyon Oak veneer, chosen for its ability to introduce natural warmth without creating unnecessary contrast against the surrounding finishes. 

This restrained palette allows each material to complement the next, reinforcing a sense of cohesion and quiet luxury.

Rippled basins echo outlook

Rippled basins echo the organic forms found throughout the design, subtly reminiscent of movement across ocean water. 

These repeated curves introduce softness, movement and rhythm, balancing the room's geometric forms while strengthening the overall design narrative.

The success of this project lies not in the number of materials or finishes used, but in the careful editing of every design decision.

By allowing each element to serve a purpose and every material to contribute to the story, the bathroom delivers an understated sense of luxury that feels enduring, authentic and deeply connected to its coastal setting.

Story by: Trendsideas