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Step Inside Lilypad Palm Beach, A Luxury Floating Villa

Lilypad Palm Beach might just be the most unique stay Sydney’s Northern Beaches has to offer. The luxury floating villa is a twist on a traditional houseboat stay, with the goal to create more space by combining innovative engineering, classic design and traditional craftsmanship. The result? A spot worlds away complimented with raw materials, warm textures and inspirational interiors. Come with us as we chat with designer Chuck Anderson, about the unique features of the villa and learn what a perfect afternoon looks like onboard Lilypad Palm Beach.

Photographed By: Ian Davidson

How did Lilypad Palm Beach come to be?

Lilypad was really conceived by spending a lot of time on the water, specifically holidays on boats while growing up and then coming to realise that the space within a boat could be done differently and, in my opinion, better. By securing a great location and not requiring the vessel to move around too much, it has allowed for the design parameters to be very different to that of a normal boat, which in turn has led to much more usable spaces. The hard part was then a six-year process to create an engineering design and operational plan that would satisfy the commercial vessel requirements of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.

Photographed By: Ian Davidson

How would you describe the styling found at Lilypad?

Definitely a strong Mediterranean vibe. We are influenced by Moroccan and desert styling as well, it’s quite a clean and minimal fit out in a way with craftsmanship and authenticity front and centre. Raw render finishes and reclaimed timbers really make for a nice canvas that are then complimented with handmade ceramics and warm textures.

Photographed By: Ian Davidson

What are some of the main brands used throughout the accommodation?

We have an amazing ceramic partner in McMullin & Co; linen and robes by Cultiver, and beautiful soaps onboard by Leif.

Photographed By: Ian Davidson

Photographed By: Jampal Williamson

What is the most unique and special feature of Lilypad?

I would have to say the solar powered infra-red sauna. It’s an incredible experience to have a floating sauna powered by the sun.

Photographed By: Ian Davidson

Photographed By: Jampal Williamson

What does the perfect stay at Lilypad look like?

Light rain in the late afternoon with the fireplace on and the doors open, jumping in the sauna and then the ocean, followed by a glass of French red wine inside. But that being said, enjoying a cheese board and rosé on the back deck in the sunshine is also hard to beat.

Photographed By: Jampal Williamson

So next time you’re planning your dream luxury vacation, Lilypad Palm Beach might just be the perfect spot. From the tranquil setting to the unique onboard features, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.