Bay Haus

Created by Interior Stylist Tim Neve.

The two-storey, three-bedroom accommodation offering in Nelson Bay is bringing a whole new vibe of coastal luxe to Port Stephens, created by local interior master stylist; Tim Neve.

Known for his interior makeovers at our local The Beach Hotel and his textile collection; Foraged, Tim has not only been recognised as a booming interior stylist but also works as a Design Course Coordinator with TAFE NSW and has created his own book; Sandcastles.

But this time around, Tim was focussing on his own passion project, bringing Bay Haus to life and giving guests an experience that would rival some 5-star hotels.

“I fell in love with the property at first sight. So much so, I remember literally making an audible gasp as I scrolled upon it for sale online! The A-frame exterior is a classic beach shack style that replicated the new wave of architecture of the 1950’s. It had so much personality, built up off the hill overlooking Nelson Bay with a wrap-around veranda.

“As the renovation unfolded, I learnt along the way that a 70-year-old building would have its own quirks to deal with,” Tim told me.

Purchasing the property in August 2019, it has been a busy few months getting it up to scratch for guests over the busy Summer season. Upon entering, it’s hard to believe the place was donned with retro bright wallpaper and closed-in walls prior to Tim working his magic.

“I still remember the first day I hit the sledgehammer through the wall and could see the shore of nearby Bagnalls Beach appear before me and knew instantly I had made the right decision.”

The neutral colours used throughout the space and the open plan living area upstairs allowing for light to bounce off the walls brings heed to the relaxed nature of the property.

“For the décor, I wanted to continue the warm neutral theme but pushing it into nude earthy tones. I opted for natural leathers and tactile linens that adhered to the muted side. Texture is key when staying neutral, to ensure things don’t become simply flat and beige.”

With statement pieces left, right and centre, the décor has been meticulously selected by Tim, allowing for your visual senses to be wowed.

“As an interior designer I have access to so many amazing products, so for this new project, I felt like a kid in a candy store! I searched at industry trade fairs in Sydney and Melbourne to uncover some really on-trend furniture pieces – sculptural forms in natural rattan, upholstered pieces in neutral linens, and homewares in nude leather.”

“I really wanted to push the shape of the furniture pieces that I was selecting – we’ve seen Scandi styles so many times before in beach houses, so I tried to stay away from that style of design. Instead, the furniture pieces are much more robust and sculptural – simple curved shapes, in sold forms like the cement terrazzo coffee table, and the rounded tops of the buffets.”

The lounge room is complete with a sofa that is big enough for a family of five to sprawl out, filled with duck feather, it’s like relaxing on one giant pillow.

My standout room would have to be the bathroom. Finished with brushed brass tapware, terracotta, and terrazzo tiles, and an apricot cement basin, the space boasts creative comfort and if it were socially acceptable to work from a bathroom; I would from this one!

Tim has thought of every detail throughout the space, not even his art choices have gone amiss. Opting for a huge limited-edition print of artist Bonnie Gray’s, Truly See, mixing warm neutral tones.

“I couldn’t go past Bonnie’s artwork – in fact you could say it inspired the colour palette for the whole home.”

If Tim Neve’s Bay Haus has piqued your interest, you’ll be glad to know it is open for bookings on both Airbnb and HomeAway Stayz. With the property situated just off of Bagnalls Beach and only a short drive into the centre of town and all the beautiful surrounding beaches, Bay Haus’ is the ideal spot for that coastal getaway you’re craving.