Tucked within Newcastle’s leafy inner suburb of Cooks Hill, this elegant bathroom renovation transforms everyday function into quiet luxury. Designed by Cat Cossettini Interiors and brought to life by Nexus Built, the space celebrates timeless craftsmanship, calming materiality, and thoughtful detail that’s harmonised with the home’s eclectic and curated aesthetic.
A Continuation of Character
For homeowners David and Julie Beins, this project marks the final chapter in a long-running transformation of their 1920s brick cottage. With a deep appreciation for art, travel and collecting meaningful pieces, they wanted their home to showcase those interests while feeling cohesive, inspiring and comfortable.
Having already worked with Cat Cossettini on their home’s interior redesign and with Nexus Built on a series of exterior and structural upgrades, the couple sought to extend the same sense of considered design and comfort into their bathroom.
David explains the original bathroom had been nicely renovated by the previous owner, but it no longer suited their needs. They wanted to modernise it with quality, contemporary finishes and fittings - a cool but classic vibe that would stand the test of time.
Design with Flow and Purpose
The bathroom’s new layout removed the bath to make way for a spacious walk-in shower, complemented by a Roca In-Tank toilet that maintains a clean visual line. Underfloor heating, LED strip lighting, and motion-sensor illumination beneath the vanity add to the sense of ease and quiet indulgence - a true reflection of the couple’s thoughtful approach to living.
Designer Cat Cossettini describes her vision as a balance between heritage charm and modern restraint. Soft olive tones, warm neutrals, and textured surfaces create harmony, complemented by the Nood Co Slip Basin in Sand. “The Slip Basin’s subtle undulations and handcrafted concrete texture bring warmth and individuality to the space, while the sand hue complements the tile and brass finishes beautifully.”
Building on Trust
For builder John Kirton of Nexus Built, the Cooks Hill project marks the continuation of a long-standing collaboration with homeowners Dave and Julie. Since first meeting in 2021, Nexus Built has worked with the couple on everything from re-roofing and floor levelling to electrical upgrades and Deco screen installations. This bathroom renovation represents the culmination of that partnership - a project built on mutual trust, quality craftsmanship, and shared vision.
Working alongside Groves Joinery, Yabby Tapware, and local tilers, Nexus Built brought together a team of trusted trades to deliver a bathroom that is both refined and functional. The builder’s close relationships with these specialists, and their collective commitment to craftsmanship, were central to the project’s success.
A Bathroom to Live In
For the Beins, the greatest reward was simply stepping into their new sanctuary. “Without a hint of irony and not meaning any disrespect to the hardworking men and women who helped make our project a success in the end, our favourite part of the project was to see off the last of the tradies and to be able to use our lovely new bathroom in blissful seclusion and privacy. Seeing the last of that port-a-loo comes a close second.” says David.
What stands now is a serene, tactile space that feels cohesive with the rest of the home - a testament to collaboration, creativity, and care. Cat reflects that every detail, from lighting to layout, was designed to enhance not just the function of the space, but the way it feels to live in.
Credits:
Builder: @nexus_built
Design: @catcossettini for @habitatliving
Joinery: @grovesjoinery
Tapware: @yabby.com.au
Tiles: @mirrorceramics @academytiles
Electrical: @modernpowergroup
Underfloor heating, towel rail and digital controller: @thermogroupau
Shower Screen: @novateamaustralia
Bathroom photography: @alitecreative
November 07, 2025
Nood Co
