There is a shift happening in the world of property design. Where once glossy finishes, statement lighting, and overt displays of wealth were the markers of a high-end home, today’s most coveted interiors are far more discreet.

The movement, dubbed “quiet luxury”, is reimagining what luxury looks – and feels – like and the Gold Coast is embracing it wholeheartedly.

At its core, quiet luxury is about restraint. It trades extravagance for refined craftsmanship, natural materials, and subtle details. Think pared-back palettes, layered texture, and furniture that feels timeless rather than trendy.

On the Gold Coast, where waterfront living and alfresco entertaining are key, quiet luxury provides that sought-after sense of calm and comfort.

“In a world that is increasingly busy, loud, and overstimulated, homeowners are seeking refuge in spaces that soothe rather than overwhelm,” says Mermaid Waters sales agent Taylor Kleinberg.

“Clients are telling us they don’t want homes that feel like flashy showpieces. They want something that is more enduring – that feels luxurious but is still purposefully created and comfortable.”

Quiet luxury replaces traditional design features such as ornate detailing, intricate materials and heavy chandeliers with honed marble, textured upholstery and bespoke joinery that creates an overall style that will be as relevant in 20 years as it is today.

The trend first emerged in the Gold Coast apartment market where architects and designers have for some time been embracing the aesthetic within their new projects.

Dune at 3513 Main Beach Parade, Main Beach, is a prime example. Its understated sophistication created through soft curves, natural materials and neutral tones has struck a chord with buyers, with several apartments selling in quick succession for upwards of $7,000,000.

However, the popularity of the style has firmly spilled over into the residential housing market, where designs are increasingly being inspired by the surrounding landscape.

“Mermaid Waters has had a flurry of new builds that represent the quiet luxury trend – ‘PALA’ at 24 Winch Court for one, and 30 Montego Court. These properties set suburb records at the time of sale, which supports buyers’ growing desire for the designs,” Taylor says.

New-build house ‘Allure’ at 23 Walker Avenue in Palm Beach is a current example. Designed by Jayson Pate and completed by award-winning builder Burleigh Constructions it features a facade of exposed concrete, blackbutt timber and limestone batons. These elements echo throughout the home creating a sense of synergy and sophisticated comfort. Marketed by Eoghan Murphy and Troy Dowker, it will be auctioned on 26 September at 11am.

Colour palettes, too, are evolving. While early iterations of quiet luxury were anchored in beige and creams, designers are now weaving in muted tones of sage, clay, and dusky blue, which add depth without disrupting the serene palette.

Paired with tactile layers such as bouclé cushions, wool rugs and velvet accent chairs, they present a carefully curated and complementary style that exudes warmth and personality.

In a region as dynamic and desirable as the Gold Coast, quiet luxury is less about keeping up appearances and more about investing in spaces that foster ease and belonging.

“There’s a level of confidence that comes with understatement,” Taylor says. “It shows a commitment to sophistication and enduring style rather than a desire to make a short-lived statement.”

For homeowners and buyers, it is fast proving to be a preferred design choice that is set to remain for some time to come.