Australia’s Gold Coast is hot for a retro-cool aesthetic. Here’s all you need to know about this mid-century-modern moment.
Pink geometric tiles, peppermint-patterned wall paint, rattan furniture, striped beach towels, longboards, vintage bicycles, neon signs and tiki cocktail glasses… You might think you’ve landed in 1960s California, but no: you’re witnessing the reclamation of Australia’s retro-cool Gold Coast.
Made famous by the beaches of Surfers Paradise, the Gold Coast became an iconic Australian road-trip destination in the 1960s at the same time Hollywood stars were flocking to the desert oasis of Palm Springs. Moreover, like its mid-century-modern California counterpart, Queensland’s Gold Coast is having something of a cultural moment right now.
So why is the Gold Coast booming?
First, there’s the influx of people: most of Queensland’s newest residents are moving here. Second, new luxury accommodation developments are appearing, with glamorous options recently joining established hotels. In 2027, the super high-end St. Regis resort will open at Budds Beach on the Gold Coast – an Australian first.
At the more modestly priced end of the holiday market, another trend has emerged, steeped in nostalgia for 1950s, ’60s and ’70s beach culture. Across the region, Gold Coast locals are retrofitting motels and beach houses, while reclaiming iconic buildings, enhancing the mid-century modern aesthetic.
The MCM vibe is characterized by spaciousness, indoor-outdoor living, and a sense of energy and optimism – all of which aptly capture the Gold Coast.
Why is Australia obsessed with mid-century modernism?
Ever since Mad Men brought the American mid-century-modern aesthetic to a contemporary audience, its fandom has grown, as has the desire to preserve what has been spared by the developer’s wrecking ball. Furthermore, social media platforms like Instagram, where aesthetics are as important as experiences, have contributed to the MCM revival.
Why the Gold Coast and why now?
For over two years, Australians weren’t able to jet overseas, which meant they hit the road to visit places they’d previously missed. Consequently, many have been swept up in a feeling of nostalgia by heading back to the Gold Coast, recreating childhood holidays at the beach.
Lockdowns also provided business owners a moment to reassess their identity. For instance, Diane from La Costa Motel explains that they transformed from an airport motel to a retro escape, adding amenities that prioritize guest experience, fostering a welcoming atmosphere.
Has the Gold Coast always been popular?
The Gold Coast has always attracted Aussies seeking winter sun and families heading to its thrilling theme parks. However, from the 1990s onwards, cheap international air travel made it possible to explore low-cost economies abroad. However, after the pandemic, Australians have developed a deeper appreciation for the amazing locales in southern Queensland.
With its reclamation of everything retro-cool, the Gold Coast is luring travelers seeking unique experiences that cannot be found anywhere else.
Top places to stay on the Gold Coast with the retro-cool vibe
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Blue Heron Motel
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Pink Hotel Coolangatta
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The Mysa
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La Costa Motel
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Tessa’s on the Beach
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Mermaid Quarters (via Airbnb)
Explore more inspirations showcasing Australia’s mid-century-modern moment
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The Bathers, Burleigh
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Modernist Australia
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Cool Gold Coast Event
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Kombis for hire in TNQ
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Yeppoon Surfer Motel (Capricorn Coast)
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Cool Gold Coast Hotel
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Retro Eat locations (Brisbane)
