Kamea: A nostalgic escape by the sea – A conversation with the owner and host Ilana

Some places are born from design. Others are born from memory. For Ilana, owner and host of Kamea, inspiration came from long, barefoot summers in the 1980s where days were slow, nights were filled with joy and life felt wonderfully simple. Today, she has reimagined that feeling in a space that blends nostalgia, comfort and fun.

We’d love to start with your story. What inspired you to create this beautiful space?
Some of my favourite memories are from the summers I spent  at my grandparents’ holiday unit in Surfers Paradise. Barefoot beach days, nights filled with laughter and the way time just moved differently. Those simple moments shaped me. I created Kamea, meaning "The one and only", as my way of revisiting that magic. An elevated nod to the laid-back 70s and 80s, Kamea is a place where life slows down and new memories are made.

How would you describe the personality or mood of your stay in three words?
Nostalgic, comfortable, fun.

What was your vision when designing or styling the space? Were there any particular influences or inspirations?
My vision was to create a space that felt like a love letter to the summers of my childhood, sunny, simple and full of heart. I am also a bit obsessed with mid-century modern design and the fun, relaxed vibe of Palm Springs, so I worked that in with warm textures and little pops of vintage charm. It is basically an elevated 80s-style beach house where time slows down, the details feel nostalgic and every corner invites you to relax and make new memories.

Can you tell us about one or two of your favourite details or features in the space?
I love the original wall panelling in the living room and the wooden beam, but I also love the wallpaper in the bedrooms.

How do you want guests to feel when they walk through the door?
I want guests to walk in and instantly feel at ease, like they have arrived somewhere familiar even if it is their first time. Kamea is about slowing down. It is not just a place to stay; it is a feeling. It is relaxed, nostalgic and full of heart.

Did sustainability play a role in your design or hosting choices?
We use reusable laundry liquid containers to reduce waste, and all our body washes, shampoos and conditioners are provided in refillable dispensers to minimise single-use plastics.

What is one thing guests often comment on or notice about the space?
A lot of guests have commented that they can feel the love that has gone into creating the space and they notice all the little details. That honestly makes me happy.

Are there any local makers, materials or businesses you have featured in the space?
Yes, we use soap and body wash from The CommonFolk, gin in summer and Negroni in winter from Bass and Flinders Distillery, and we supply wine from Red Hill for special occasions. We are always looking to support even more local businesses.

What is your favourite time of day in the space, and what is happening then?
First thing in the morning. It is so quiet and still, and all you hear are the birds chirping. It is so peaceful.

Lastly, what is one piece of advice you would give to someone dreaming of creating a space like this?
My biggest advice is to trust your own vision and take your time. Create a vision board and stick to it. Pay attention to the little details that make it feel personal and welcoming. Those are the things that really make a difference. And most importantly, pour your heart into it. When you create with love, it shows, and that is what makes a space truly special.

Kamea is not just a stay. It is a gentle return to a slower, sunnier way of life, where the simplest moments become the most memorable. If you are ever on the Mornington Peninsula, it is a retreat well worth seeking out.