Interior designer Lisa Twyman shares how she transformed a North Coast beach house into a bright, breezy family retreat, proving that thoughtful finishes and quality materials can completely refresh a space without major structural changes.
This relaxed beach house was designed as a family holiday escape – light-filled, unfussy and effortlessly liveable. Working within the existing structure, Lisa focused on subtle yet impactful updates. The result is a timeless coastal interior that feels calm, considered and deeply connected to its surroundings.
What was your main inspiration for this project?
We were aiming for a light and airy feel as this is a beach house used for family holidays. It needed to be relaxed and liveable, with no fuss.
What was the biggest challenge, and how did you overcome it?
The client did not want to make big changes, so the existing flooring stayed and all the walls remained. We focused on the finishes we could add and the furniture pieces, such as the custom-made solid oak wall unit in the lounge.
What is your favourite element or detail in this space, and why?
I love the tiled wall in the bar. These tiles are locally made by Kalki Ceramics, and the glaze is so alive, it seems to reflect the ocean opposite. They really bring life to the space! I also like the bespoke concrete terrazzo bar waterfall top we had made specifically for the space. This style of concrete is a great material for indoor and outdoor spaces as it is durable, easy to clean and delivers a pared-back look.
How does this project reflect your design philosophy?
I prefer a more minimal and timeless approach to design. I feel that if you use good quality materials (rather than quantity) your home will feel elevated. And they also last much longer. I also think interior design can actually shift the way you feel, so by not overcrowding the space, you feel calmer and more able to cope with everyday life.
Details: www.lisatwyman.com; IG: @lisatwyman
Text: Jennifer Campbell Photographs: CHRIS ALLAN
