TBR Home Tour:

Having purchased their two-bedroom 80s duplex at Miami on Queensland‘s Gold Coast 13 years ago, Mandy and Tim McKay knew they had outgrown their beloved abode but loved the coveted beachside suburb and community too much to sell up and move.

So, the McKays - along with their neighbours in the adjoining duplex - decided to knock down the existing brick dwelling and build two beautiful modern coastal homes.

The two couples engaged Michael Smekel from Smek Design to design the elevated beach houses, and Michael Cunningham from Cunningham Constructions to build them.

Mandy opted against using an interior designer but sourced most of her selections through Three Balls Red – including tiles, Concrete Nation mint and nude basins, wallpaper, tiles, Nick Atkins print and pendant lighting.

Adding to the joy of moving into their dream home, the handover took place on February 12 last year – the couple’s 20th anniversary of meeting.The pair share their ultra-stylish four-bedroom, three-bathroom abode with their daughter Macy, six, and pooches Marshall and Stevie, and relished the opportunity to kick back poolside and entertain their friends all summer.

We caught up with Mandy and Tim, of Maco Electrics, to chat about this inspiring project and get their tips for budding renovators.

Congratulations on such a beautiful new home! How would you describe the style of your abode?

 Thank you! I’d say Modern Coastal.

You didn’t use an interior designer but our team were thrilled to work with you on this project..

Yes, most selections were through Three Balls Red, it was comforting to know Jas [Three Balls Red’s creative director] approved of my vision and encouraged me to jump out of my comfort zone with a few things including the incredible wallpaper in two of our bathrooms.

What were some of the biggest challenges for you in terms of the build/project management?

Losing sleep over final selections! We were super lucky to only have minimal impact from COVID.

What is your favourite part of the home?

In addition to the indoor/outdoor living space – which is perfect for us as we are always entertaining - I absolutely love our master bedroom and ensuite. It has been six months and it still feels like we are sleeping in a hotel or luxe Airbnb. We are lucky enough to get a glimpse of the sunrise over Burleigh Heads each morning from our bedroom window.

What was your biggest splurge?

The Knotwood front fence and garage screen were something we didn't budget for but it was worth every dollar to have a product that we never need to maintain and will always look fresh.

Anything you would do differently next time around?

No, we are extremely happy with what we have created!

Any tips for TBR clients building their dream home?

Trust your instinct and don't follow too many current trends.