Cabarita Sunset | Garage Conversion
From Garage to Golden Hour Getaway: A Studio Transformation at Cabarita Heads
What was once a standard front yard garage, tucked just a few steps from the heart of Cabarita Headland’s main street, is now a beautiful Airbnb escape. At One Palm Building, we’ve always believed that great design isn’t just about square metres—it’s about soul, detail, and the character of a space.
This project, affectionately known as Caba Sunset Studio, is a true testament to that philosophy.
A Blank Canvas with Bare Walls
When we first walked into the garage, it was a rough concrete shell - brimming with potential. Every design choice, from the French doors that welcome the morning sun to the palette of textures and tones that elevate the space, was thoughtfully chosen by our clients. Our role was to refine the layout, enhance natural light and privacy, and bring their ideas to life with care and craftsmanship.
The result is a studio that feels intimate yet expansive—proof of what’s possible when strong vision meets considered execution.
Earthy, Elevated, and Designed to Slow Down
Inside, the walls were hand-painted with a limewash finish that gives the space a soft, earthy glow—perfectly complemented by terracotta tiles underfoot and rich, vertical feature tiling in the wet areas. The palette was drawn directly from the surrounding Cabarita cliffs: clay, sand, sun, and sea.
The kitchenette features custom joinery with a timber benchtop and brushed brass tapware, paired with a deep ceramic sink and a cream Smeg coffee machine that’s become a guest favourite. Open shelves allow for personality—whether that's a vintage speaker, a few good books, or morning coffee essentials.
In the bathroom, we leaned into spa-like luxury. A golden round mirror with backlighting, a solid timber vanity, and brushed brass fixtures create a calming retreat after a day at the beach. The walk-in shower is framed with Japanese handmade tiles that feel timeless but modern.
Small Space, Big Heart
It’s easy to forget you’re in a converted garage when you’re curled up in bed, doors flung open to the salty breeze, espresso in hand. This studio isn’t just a room—it’s an experience. A place where every detail was considered, from the light placement to the texture of the walls. And that’s exactly what our building company loves most: creating homes (and Airbnbs!) that feel lived in from day one.
Since launching, the studio has quickly become a go-to Airbnb for couples and solo travellers visiting the Cabarita region. Its proximity to the headland walking track, local cafes, and secluded beaches makes it a perfect spot to unwind—and it proves that you don’t need a large space to create a luxurious escape.
Book a Stay at Cabarita Sunset ( Instagram @caba.sunset)
Photography by Ella Coker ( Instagram @ellacokerr)
Want to Convert Your Garage?
Whether you’re dreaming of a studio Airbnb, a granny flat, or a home office that doesn’t feel like an afterthought, we’d love to help you bring it to life. This project is proof that with the right design team, even the humblest of spaces can become something truly special.
