TBR ProjectFlorida House
What started as a potential knockdown to make way for their dream home became a passion project for the Martens family.
When they purchased Florida House, a sprawling 1990s waterfront property at Broadbeach Waters - originally two houses joined together - Mel and Brent Martens intended to build from the ground up.
But after living in the 780 sqm house for a few months with their two children, the couple, who have renovated homes back-to-back for 19 years, were quickly drawn to its quirky character.
TBR Project
Florida House
What started as a potential knockdown to make way for their dream home became a passion project for the Martens family.
When they purchased Florida House, a sprawling 1990s waterfront property at Broadbeach Waters - originally two houses joined together - Mel and Brent Martens intended to build from the ground up.
But after living in the 780 sqm house for a few months with their two children, the couple, who have renovated homes back-to-back for 19 years, were quickly drawn to its quirky character.
“We thought we would build our dream home on the water but we lived there for a few months, and started thinking that maybe we shouldn’t knock it down,” Mel tells Three Balls Red.“
It feels like, if we had knocked it down, we would have built a standard two storey house like everyone does - this house was so different!”
Rumored to have had a very colorful past as a party house, Florida House offered a unique canvas for the couple’s Palm Springs-inspired design vision.
Instead of demolition, they embarked on a two-year renovation, keeping the core of the house while injecting their personal style and quality finishes.
The sunken lounge, originally reminiscent of a vintage cigar lounge, became a focal point. Mel and Brent didn’t want to erase its history, but rather give it a fresh spin.
With almost two decades of renovation experience under their belts, the Martens took on project management and interior design.
Florida House features seven bedrooms, each with an ensuite. The ultra-private setting and amenities like a putting green and a cinema make it a popular spot for shoots and celebrity stays - Paul Waterhausen and Mark Wahlberg have been among the guests.
Thoughtful tile choices were key to the transformation, with Three Balls Red supplying tiles including limestone tiles for the main bathrooms, green marble flutes for the bar, and penny tiles for the walk-in shower, which add texture and visual interest.
Emo Glam
Forget playing it “safe” - this is full-on mood lighting.
Deep tobacco velvets, smoky glass, and vintage brass fixtures bring theatrical flair that’s sultry without trying too hard.
Our creative director Jas’ tip is to mix a sculptural brass pendant with plush velvet cushions for maximum drama that still feels cosy.
Touch Me Textures
Our TBR interior team believes your home should feel like a second skin — soft, inviting, and tactile.
Boucle, suede, aged leather, and hand-thrown ceramics create an irresistible sensory experience. Run your fingers over a boucle throw or pop your glass of vino on a textured ceramic coaster, and you’re instantly grounded in luxury that feels real.
