This beachside townhouse had decent bones but was dressed in “developer chic”—beige, bland, and barely memorable. The brief? No full gut, just a strategic glow-up. With budget calling the shots, we focused on calm luxury and thoughtful upgrades, anchored in a Japandi-inspired palette.

The kitchen and butler’s pantry were reworked with Navurban White Mountain Oak and Taj Mahal Quartzite, dialling up the warmth and elegance. In the living room, a new gas fireplace, modern cabinetry, and curved Venetian plaster walls transformed the space from functional to designed. The dining area gained fluted storage that’s equal parts practical and pretty, while the main suite became a true retreat with a reconfigured walk-in, raised ceilings, and a Rosso Levanto-topped vanity.

We’re still finessing a few finishes with a bit of “budget engineering,” but the bones of something special are already here. Proof that you don’t need a full overhaul to create a little magic.