Mermaid Beach is welcoming a new chapter in boutique beachfront design with Ayla, a thoughtfully crafted collection of eight residences that redefines Queensland’s coastal architecture.
The project, led by Highlife Property Group founders Elyse and James George in collaboration with Raunik Architects, brings what the team calls “an elevated yet understated approach” to seaside living.
With clean, contemporary lines and subtle organic forms inspired by the shoreline, the design avoids the clichés of coastal developments while authentically engaging with its environment.
Positioned along sought-after Albatross Avenue, Ayla’s facade combines soft curves, natural textures and rhythmic design cues to echo the ebb and flow of the beach just metres away.
Expansive windows maximise natural light, immersing each residence in panoramic ocean views and fostering a seamless connection to the outdoors.
Inside, every element has been refined to balance enduring luxury with functional, day-to-day liveability. Sculptural limestone kitchens, oak-lined living areas and curated natural finishes define calm, timeless interiors.
Elyse George said: “Gold Coast buyers want homes that feel as liveable in 10 years as they do on day one.
“Ayla balances laid-back coastal style with a level of polish and longevity rarely seen in beachfront living.”
The development reflects Highlife’s fully integrated design-develop-build model, which the founders say allows for rigorous control across every stage — from material selection to final delivery.
This focus on cohesion is perhaps most visible in the kitchens, designed as both aesthetic and practical anchors of the homes.
“Instead of taking the usual approach, we let the natural honed limestone take centre stage—creating a bold, beautiful focal point that anchors the entire interior palette,” said Elyse.
“We love when nature becomes art in a home.
“It brings an effortless kind of beauty you simply can’t replicate.”
Throughout the residences, warm timbers, bronze accents and tactile finishes reflect the neighbourhood’s coastal tones.
Bronze tapware by Faucet Strommen, bespoke Boston oak cabinetry and plush textures throughout contribute to a sense of understated luxury.
The primary suites elevate this experience with bespoke walk-in joinery, travertine-lined ensuites and subtle detailing that fuses refinement with comfort.
Designed to accommodate both permanent and occasional residents, Ayla’s half-floor layouts include three bedrooms, flexible living spaces, private terraces and multi-purpose rooms adaptable to a media lounge or children’s retreat.
According to Highlife, interest has been strong among downsizers and holiday-home buyers, drawn to its boutique scale and architectural rigour.
For George, the vision has always extended beyond bricks and mortar: “We wanted Ayla to be more than just a home.
“It’s an investment in a lifelong coastal lifestyle.
“Each residence is designed to evolve with its owners, offering enduring quality and timeless appeal.”
With its quiet architectural presence and emphasis on long-term livability, Ayla is set to become a new benchmark for beachfront residences on the Gold Coast.
