Classic to cool: an inside look at a '70s roadside motel's glam transformation

A new chapter has begun for a simple roadside motel, as it joins the trend of an Australian type of accommodation which have been given a fresh new look.

Located moments from Mollymook Beach on the NSW South Coast, Dolphins Motel has reopened following a comprehensive redesign that was inspired by mid-Century coastal living.

The South Coast site has been reimagined with help from design firm Lukin Design, interior design by Studio Aquilo, and branding agency Swell Design Group.

Dolphins Motel has been transformed from a former roadside stay into a retro-inspired coastal retreat with 10 boutique rooms, a three-bedroom apartment, pool, native gardens and Dolly's Café.

"There's something incredibly special about Mollymook and this part of the South Coast," general manager Paul Goodenough, formerly of Bannisters Mollymook said.

"People come here for the beaches, the coastline, the slower pace and the feeling that you've truly escaped.

"Dolphins Motel has been designed to reflect that. It's relaxed and unpretentious, but every detail has been carefully considered."

Peter Lukin from Lukin Design said from the beginning, they wanted to capture the nostalgia of the classic Australian beach motel while elevating it with thoughtful, contemporary design.

"It's the little details, from the custom joinery to the landscaping, pool and the addition of Dolly's Café as a genuine neighbourhood gathering place that give the property its personality and create somewhere people genuinely want to slow down, connect and enjoy everything Mollymook has to offer," he said.

Inside, the design influence is decidedly mid-Century.

Portugese cork flooring, Fibonacci terrazzo surfaces, Brodware tapware, locally crafted cabinetry and handcrafted bedheads by Create Estate sit alongside furnishings from Jardan, Tait, Vincent Sheppard and Vitra.

Bespoke bedside tables are topped with Geneva retro alarm clocks, while artwork by Studio Elwood, Leigh Vardenega, Studio of the Sun and PTSR Studio brings colour, character and a coastal sensibility to the rooms.

The 10 Retro King Studios each feature a private terrace, kitchenette, Dyson hair dryers, and Steamery clothes steamers.

Just beyond the rooms, there's a pool framed by landscaping and soft mid-Century curves.

Meanwhile, the three-bedroom apartment channels a 1950s Californian beach house.

A double-sided fireplace from Visionline anchors the living space, while a custom dining table by Studio Aquilo, Jardan seating and a Rachel Donath Vivi coffee table create a home designed for gathering.

"A large part of Mollymook's appeal is that it still feels like an authentic beach town," Mr Goodenough said.

"There's a familiarity to a great beach motel that Australians instantly understand.

"We've taken that feeling and reimagined it for today - combining old-school holiday charm with thoughtful design, local craftsmanship and the kind of comforts modern travellers expect.

"The result is somewhere that feels relaxed, welcoming and unmistakably of this place."