The look
Reopened earlier this year after extensive renovations,Sunnymead Hotel is the latest addition to Australia’s motel revival. Formerly The Lightkeeper’s Inn,the 20-suite motel has had a glow-up in happy hues of paprika,turmeric and gold,with the old manager’s residence and event room given new life as a day spa and restaurant. The soothing retrofitted arches,mineralised pool and sunset colour palette evoke Miami circa-1980s,but don’t be fooled – the hotel is really owner Damien Cerantonio’s tribute to his heady days travelling through India.
The room
An orange and white checkered hallway brings me to my light-drenched suite that blends coastal chic with stylish mid-century touches,like chirpy yellow wall panelling and a terrazzo-tiled bathroom. The pantry is stocked with locally sourced ceramics and glassware,with bathroom amenities fromThe Herbalist,an organic skincare label from nearby Bells Beach. A split-system air-conditioner positioned over the bed keeps the room cosy in winter and chilled in summer. While the rooms are stylish and practical,little touches remind me Sunnymead is foremost about good vibes. The cocktail kit by the minibar begs to be taken for a shake,while the retro Tivoli Bluetooth speaker means you can take your beats to the beach. For an extra fee,the staff will deliver a breakfast hamper to enjoy in your room (or on a sun lounger by the pool).
One of the refurbished rooms in what was once the Lightkeeper’s Inn (Sunnymead is the name of a nearby beach).