High-End Finishes That Are Also Easy to Live With

Let’s be real — we all want the Pinterest-worthy home. Clean lines, beautiful finishes, a sense of calm and style in every room… but without spending every weekend cleaning grout or oiling the deck.

That’s where the luxury of low maintenance comes in. In 2025, one of the biggest trends we’re seeing (and loving) in home design is this: families are prioritising beautiful homes that are easy to live in.

And honestly? We’re here for it.

At Surfside Homes, we’re all about building homes that feel luxe, look stunning, and still work for real life — sandy feet, busy schedules, kids, dogs and all. Here’s how we’re helping our clients build low-fuss, high-style homes that last.

Why Low Maintenance Is the New Luxury

More and more, our clients are coming to us saying, “We want quality, but we also want easy.” Gone are the days of high-maintenance marble, decking that needs constant oiling, or floors that scratch if you so much as look at them the wrong way.

The modern family home is about effortless elegance — finishes that hold up, clean well, and still give you that “wow” moment when you walk in the door. Because what’s the point of having a stunning space if you have to tiptoe around it?

Our Favourite Low-Maintenance Finishes That Still Feel Luxe

Let’s dive into some of the finishes we’re recommending to clients who want the best of both worlds — high-end looks with everyday practicality.

1. Engineered Stone Benchtops

Stone is a classic go-to for that luxe look — but natural marble can stain, scratch and be a bit… high maintenance. Enter engineered stone.

With brands like Caesarstone, Talostone and YDL offering a huge range of finishes (from soft terrazzo looks to sleek concrete tones), it’s never been easier to get the aesthetic you love, without the stress.

Why we love it:

• Non-porous and easy to clean

• Heat, scratch, and stain-resistant

• Wide range of finishes to suit every style

 2. Hybrid Timber Flooring

You’d be surprised how many of our clients say “we want timber floors, but we’re nervous about damage.” Whether it’s from kids, pets or high-traffic zones, real timber can feel a little delicate.

Hybrid flooring gives you that warm, natural timber look — with way more durability.

Why we love it:

• Scratch and water-resistant

• Super low maintenance (no sanding or sealing needed)

• Easy to install and looks just like the real thing

Bonus: it’s also softer and quieter underfoot than tiles, making it perfect for family living.

3. Composite Decking

If you’ve ever had a traditional timber deck, you know the drill — sanding, oiling, sealing, repeat. Composite decking takes all the fuss out of outdoor living, while still delivering that natural timber vibe.

Why we love it:

• Won’t splinter, crack, or warp

• Fade and stain-resistant

• No sanding or oiling required

• Available in a range of tones to suit your outdoor aesthetic

It’s the perfect solution for alfresco areas, pool surrounds, or any space where you just want to kick back and enjoy — not do maintenance.

4. Rendered Finishes

More and more homes we’re building are moving toward smooth, contemporary facades — and rendered finishes are a big part of that. But don’t worry, today’s options are far more durable and low-fuss than the older styles.

Why we love it:

• Timeless, modern look

• Available in tones that complement natural materials

• Great durability when sealed properly

• Doesn’t require constant upkeep like some other interior or exterior finishes

Pair it with stone accents or timber cladding for a soft, coastal-modern look that holds up beautifully over time.

5. Handleless Cabinetry + Easy-Clean Surfaces

In kitchens, we’re seeing a move toward clean lines, handleless doors, and satin or matte finishes that wipe down in seconds.

Why we love it:

• No fiddly handles = less cleaning

• Smooth finishes resist fingerprints and smudges

• Makes the kitchen feel sleek, spacious, and modern

Even things like push-to-open drawers and soft-close doors add that touch of everyday luxury without extra effort.

Designing for Real Life Doesn’t Mean Compromising on Style

One of the biggest myths in building is that you have to choose between style and practicality — but we’re here to say you can absolutely have both.

We love working with clients to select materials and finishes that make their homes feel beautiful and liveable. Because when you’re not worrying about maintenance, you’re free to actually enjoy your space.

Imagine sipping your morning coffee in a kitchen that stays clean and bright. Hosting friends on a deck that always looks fresh. Letting the kids run wild without stressing about scratches or spills. That’s the kind of luxury we’re talking about.

Let’s Build You a Beautiful, Low-Fuss Home

If you’re dreaming of a home that feels luxurious but still works for busy family life, we’d love to help. From the moment we sit down with you in our design studio, we focus on tailoring every detail to your lifestyle — including choosing finishes that make life easier without compromising on looks.

Want to chat about your build?
Book an appointment with us at our new Design Studio by sending an enquiry through our website. We’ll go over your vision, talk through your options, and show you how beautiful and low-maintenance can go hand in hand.