Artisan Exterior and InStyle Habitats: Defining Texture, Tonality and Tranquillity in Design

When design is truly considered, a space becomes part of the landscape, not just placed within it. With its bright, relaxed palette and sculptural layering of natural elements, the Shipyard Project by InStyle Habitats captures the spirit of coastal living with seamless intent. At once crisp and earthy, refined and welcoming, this home is a celebration of landscape-led design, anchored by a considered selection of our natural stone materials.

A Backyard Built for Slow Days & Good Living

This residential project embraces a Palm Springs-esque ease, softened through a distinctly Australian lens. The home’s light exterior tones flow naturally into the backyard, where Valo Travertine sets the stage for an expansive pool area and open-air entertaining space. Cool underfoot and softly textured, Valo Travertine's blend of cream and light coffee hues makes it a go-to for laid-back, sun-soaked spaces.

The spa, slightly elevated, has also been clad vertically in Valo, while rebated drop edge coping wraps around both the pool and spa to deliver a sharp, seamless finish that elevates the overall design.

Image: Terra Organic Wall Cladding, Valo Travertine Pool Coping, Origin Spanish Glass Pool Tiles & Alentaa Organic Stepping Stones

A Sculptural Feature Wall with Organic Depth

A multi-level feature wall doubles as a water feature and focal point. Finished in our Terra Organic Wall Cladding, this installation blends warm and cool tones, creams, oranges, and soft purples; across large, split-face sandstone pieces. The split surface finish adds dimension and texture, while the earthy hues speak effortlessly to the surrounding flora and natural stone palette.

Natural Stone That Softens and Grounds

Off to one side of the pool, a softer garden zone brings calm and character. A curved concrete bench anchors the space, framed by low planting and scattered mounds of ground cover. Set loosely across the earth, our Alentaa Travertine Organic Stepping Stones form an organic path that feels informal, fluid and intentionally unstructured.

With their creamy tones and irregular shapes, the steppers create a sense of rhythm and balance—tying back to the Valo Travertine used elsewhere and reinforcing a cohesive palette. Surrounded by lush planting and open space, this section of the garden invites pause and connection to the natural materials underfoot.

Image: Alentaa Travertine Organic Stepping Stones

A Bold Contrast to Light and Texture

Throughout this project, a soft and sunlit palette sets the tone—cream-toned travertine, pale cladding, and bright stone underfoot. In this context, the use of Origin Spanish Glass Pool Tiles adds striking contrast and definition. Inspired by natural slate, these deep charcoal tiles bring richness and visual weight to the pool and spa, grounding the lighter elements that surround them.

Used along the waterline and on the raised wall between the spa and pool, the Origin tiles accentuate the geometric lines of the design. Their fine format and subtle texture create depth and dimension, catching the light in a way that shifts with the water and sun. The result is a clean, sculptural detail that adds balance and edge to an otherwise soft and organic material story.

The Shipyard Project is a showcase of calm, curated living, where every material has been selected to create flow, function, and feel. Through a palette of natural stone and thoughtful design gestures, InStyle Habitats have delivered a backyard that feels as good as it looks: relaxed, layered, and ready to be lived in.

Experience the materials that shaped this project at one of our studios in QLD, ACT and NSW, or contact us for a sample, and explore how Artisan Exterior can bring lasting impact to your next design. 

This article was featured in the Spring ‘25 edition of BIMCRUNCH Australia. Find the full magazine here. To learn more about Artisan Exterior or download their BIM objects, join Bimstore for free. For additional information, visit Artisan Exterior's manufacturer profile or their company website and social media pages.