Sunshine Beach Townhouse by Zuzana & Nicholas

Through a minimal and considered approach, Brisbane-based architectural practice Zuzana & Nicholas has transformed a previously run-down 1980s townhouse into a series of calm, finely detailed spaces that connect to newly landscaped gardens.

The renovation transformed the layout, moving the living spaces from the upper to the lower level, where they open to the yard through a series of new doors. These doors, cut from the original window openings, form a new main entrance that guides visitors through the garden on arrival, with a new set of external stairs added to ease the transition.

Shades of green, introduced through furnishings, a feature surfboard and a pistachio-coloured stairwell, provide a fresh contrast.

The home’s finishes and fittings were stripped back, revealing its solid structure: masonry external walls, a concrete slab on the ground floor and a hardwood-framed upper level. Polished concrete exposes an attractive stone aggregate, setting the tone for a cool palette on the lower level. Shades of green, introduced through furnishings, a feature surfboard and a pistachio-coloured stairwell, provide a fresh contrast.

The kitchen splashback and benchtop, crafted from recycled porcelain waste by Sydney-based Mud Ceramics, adds a playful touch. This is complemented by the fine, simple lines of pale timber dining furniture and cabinetry. Overhead, exposed battens of hardwood flooring draw the eye toward the garden, reinforcing a strong linear motif.

The renovation transformed the layout, moving the living spaces from the upper to the lower level, where they open to the yard through a series of new doors.

The pale green hue introduced in the stairwell continues upstairs, where it is complemented by a soft, light blue. At the top of the stairs, a spacious landing features built-in storage and connects, via sliding doors, to a second living room that can convert to an office or spare bedroom. The bathroom follows this restrained colour palette, with grey tiles and an olive-green concrete pedestal basin as the focal point.

Outside, the gardens are the result of a collaboration between the client and landscape designer Jonathan Kopinski. Designed for low maintenance, they feature a combination of locally endemic plants and stone, framed by mesh screens that will eventually be covered by climbing vines. Simple yet cost-effective, this outdoor transformation by Zuzana & Nicholas results in a low-maintenance townhouse that emanates minimalist style and modern grace.

Architecture and interior design by Zuzana & Nicholas. Build by GTO Building. Landscape design by Zuzana & Nicholas and Jonathan Kopinski. Stone by Eco Outdoor.