Emerging Melbourne-based interior design practice, CJH Studio, has created a dreamy beachside escape within a three-bedroom, penthouse apartment on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. Led by Cassie James-Herrick, the total interior refurbishment of the apartment, dubbed Penthouse M, was completed with no other consultants involved – CJH Studio worked on the replanning of all key living spaces while undertaking full interior design and joinery documentation.

The somewhat ostentatious elements still lingering within the untouched 1970s apartment interior – cue the large circular spa bath completed with brass swan spouts – have been respectfully muted, while beautiful elements such as the existing travertine tile flooring were retained and restored. There is a sensitivity that clearly weaves itself throughout the design, each decision, whether it be spatial arrangement and material choice or custom joinery detailing, have been meticulously resolved to achieve breathtaking simplicity.

The apartment unfolds with a poetic language, the soft curving form of the building hugging all who move through its spaces. The studio, along with the client, wholeheartedly embraced the curves which were prominent throughout the existing building, using them as a main influence throughout the design. These elements were intentionally referenced and highlighted, showcased in the large arch carved into the double-height wall in the living room and the circular workbench inserted into the kitchen. There is an ever-present, conversation between rectilinear geometries and the organic softness of the arch motif. This quiet tension generates spatial complexity while also creating welcoming, relaxing living spaces for a growing family.

A refined, minimalist textural palette has been adopted throughout the interiors, curating a soft, calm atmosphere while nodding to the existing narrative of the building. The 1970s glass brick wall in the apartment’s foyer has been introduced as a feature in the walk-in shower sculpted out of the previous curving laundry. The glass brick takes on a new life in this space, instantly becoming a part of the contemporary language of the project.

CJH Studio struck a fine balance between beautiful design and practical and economic constraints, proving that sophisticated, good design does not have to break the bank. The large arched recess in the living space stands as an economical answer to the architectural opportunity presented in the glorious space provided by a double-height wall. The budget didn’t allow for a grand gesture, so instead, a plastered oversized arch with minimal joinery became the simple but elegant feature within the creamy toned space; a cost-effective, simple approach producing a luxe finish fitting-in perfectly with the high-quality feel of the rest of the interiors.

An internal stairway connecting the 250 square metre apartment becomes the main character in the space, it’s rounded body a moment where the rectilinear mezzanine bulges outward. Its white sculptural walls demand attention, it’s clean, minimalist aesthetic the perfect accompaniment to the soft waves which crash outside a neighbouring window. These walls, while beautiful, also ensure the previous safety concerns of an open tread and the non-safety glass used in the balustrade, were resolved to create a timeless and family-friendly access point.

[Words by Caitlin Miller. Images courtesy of and styling by CJH Studio. Photography by Cathy Schusler.]