The Journal

Mr & Mrs Elias: Crafting dream apartment renovations with a touch of luxury WITH TALOSTONE® MinQ® Zero Calacatta Gold™ Mineral Surfaces

Maroubra Penthouse Apartment
By Mr & Mrs Elias

When Mr & Mrs Elias were engaged to completely transform the layout and functionality of this 20-year-old Maroubra penthouse, they saw an opportunity to create something truly special. What was once an outdated ‘80s wooden teal kitchen, blue-tiled bathrooms, and grey carpets throughout has been reimagined into a stylish, functional home that reflects the homeowners lifestyle.

Talostone® MinQ® Zero Calacatta Gold Mineral Surface is Crystalline silica free and fit the brief perfectly - durable, easy to clean, and able to be cut and shaped to suit any design aesthetic.

DESIGN AND CONSTRUCT

Clients come to Mr & Mrs Elias when they reach a stage where downsizing makes sense – but that doesn’t mean compromising on style. As a boutique, family-run firm specialising in architectural apartment living, they take the time to understand their clients and craft spaces that feel personal, luxurious, and effortlessly functional.

This penthouse took shape around the clients’ lifestyle – with a passion for cooking, Mr & Mrs Elias knew the kitchen needed to be both beautiful and practical. 

THE GOLDEN TOUCH

Talostone® MinQ® Zero Calacatta Gold™ Mineral Surfaces, with its antique white background and golden veins, brings understated luxury to the space. Paired with Polytec Florentine Walnut Woodmatt cabinetry, it creates a rich, inviting contrast that warms the kitchen without overpowering it. 

The custom joinery, curved panelling, and soft sage green tiles, adding depth and texture. Smart storage ensures every inch is maximised, resulting in a sophisticated, contemporary space – designed for cooking, gathering, and sharing meals with loved ones.

This apartment renovation brings together modern design with mid-century influences, creating a space that feels timeless yet fresh.

“Kitchens are the heart of most homes, so with our client’s love for cooking, we knew this space needed to be more than just functional – it had to be the centrepiece of the home with serious wow factor. This design strikes the perfect balance between practicality and luxury,” says Jan Elias, Director of Mr & Mrs Elias.

Downsizing with style and functionality

In under four months, this renovation has completely transformed how the apartment is used and lived in. By maximising space, the design achieves a seamless blend of smart storage, refined aesthetics, and enhanced functionality. Downsizing became a premium experience, with a curated mix of marble, natural wood, soft greens, and high-end finishes elevating the home beyond just practicality.

Many of Mr & Mrs Elias’ clients are downsizing – particularly high-end apartment owners returning from overseas who still want to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle. Thoughtful material choices, like Talostone® MinQ® Zero Calacatta Gold™ Mineral Surfaces, prove that a well-designed home can be both practical and effortlessly elegant. 

Thinking about downsizing or renovating your apartment? Mr & Mrs Elias can bring your vision to life.

Feeling inspired by the stunning design elements featured? Calacatta Gold™ comes in a stunning Matte and Polished finish. Click the link below to request a sample. Compliment it with our beautiful Arctic White™