Photography courtesy of Atelier Photography

In June 2023, we caught up with Newcastle-based interior designer, Tim Neve, to hear about his biggest renovation project to date – Hipwell Haus. Tim is documenting the process of transforming an almost 100-year-old Art Deco warehouse in Mayfield into an impressive home and studio.

The original interiors were in a state of disrepair. But that only inspired Tim to turn the blank canvas into something truly unique. His plans to breathe new life into the historic premises have started to take shape, firstly with his transformation of the bathroom spaces.

In the first reveal, the process of turning the powder room into a distinctive design traces Tim’s unexpected combinations in material selections.

“I think it’s a testament to the power of decorating that the bathrooms now feel instantly inviting,” Tim said.

However, Tim knows some of his bolder choices won’t be for everyone, saying “I always say strong selections can work well in small spaces, so I took my advice adding colour, texture, and pattern throughout the spaces – even on the ceiling!”

The result is a feast for the senses. Mixing warm rich tones, the wet areas of the home now exude luxe hotel vibes. Warm metallic tapware by Parisi from Harvey Norman enlivens the scheme, whilst statement bathtubs, including a 1.35m circular tub, and a 250kg concrete creation from Highgrove Bathrooms, become undeniable centrepieces of the rooms.

Moody wall lighting and functional downlights from Beacon Lighting add depth and drama to each space. Statement concrete basins were handcrafted by Australian company Nood Co in pop-coloured hues.

Adjoining is the second bathroom, which creates a cavernous yet warm space. Tim wasn’t surprised to see that colour authority Pantone named Peach Fuzz the 2024 Colour of the Year, as the statement hue he applied across the room.

The painted walls are executed in Bauwek lime wash effect that adds instant patina to the surfaces, evoking the building’s rich history. There’s even his much-anticipated use of European terracotta breeze blocks as shower screens, that demonstrate the forward-thinking nature of the designs.

The scheme is topped off by arch-shaped internal doors from Hardware Concepts and a custom-made circular skylight – each design choice showcasing artisan craftsmanship.

The master ensuite carves out around 30m2 of floor space from the home. Matched with its soaring 3.1m ceilings, the architecture of the space alone is dramatic. Designed as a couple’s retreat, it features double quantities throughout the space for practicality; dual vanities, and two shower heads, all of which ensure the visual effect is doubly impressive.

There’s more than one visual hero in each room – but rather than the effect causing overwhelm, the spaces become a delight as you discover more features in each space. Tim has retained sections of internal walls featuring the exposed 100-year-old brick and softened the looks with floor-to-ceiling sheer linen curtains.

The bathrooms are only the first of many rooms to be revealed soon – watch this space for more from Tim Neve at Hipwell Haus!