Inside skin expert James Vivian’s sleek and minimalist bathroom

The Melbourne home of dermal therapist James Vivian is a marriage of contrasts. From the outside, the single-fronted Federation-style cottage delivers classic kerb appeal with a whitewashed brick facade and terracotta tiled roof. But once you pass the front door, it surrenders to sleek, modern interiors that spell out a minimalist sanctuary.

Vivian and his husband Ben Esakoff bought the Prahran property from Gilad Ritz, co-founder of architecture firm Ritz & Ghougassian, almost five years ago. “We’d always really admired the home,” Vivian says. “We literally just sent Gil a text and asked if he might be interested in selling.”

The colour palette and material choices are more restrained than Vivian has previously gravitated towards. “[This home] is an opportunity to explore a more modern environment – that definitely suited my husband. But I express myself through colourful art and sculptural works that we’ve collected and placed throughout the rooms.”

Vivian is the founder and owner of his namesake Toorak skincare clinic, as well as cosmeceutical skincare line Viviology. He’s been crowned Australia’s “face whisperer” by clients and fans.

At home, each morning the couple’s ensuite turns into “Prahran’s best little karaoke bar” thanks to a beloved boom box. Vivian and Esakoff have developed a synergy for the start of their day – if not their music taste. “I’m still listening to the same pop that I did when I was in my twenties.”

His-and-his sinks are set in a striking dark marble vanity which is framed with the same spotted gum panelling that flows throughout the house. The mix of materials contrasts with a concrete brickwork wall. Sleek brushed nickel taps enhance the minimalist vibe. And a retractable skylight above the shower, as well as direct access to a manicured internal courtyard, deliver air, light and native greenery.

A red sculpture by local artist Ben Mazey (and Esakoff’s friend) stands tall in the corner. On the vanity, there’s a ceramic birthday cake by made along with an urn by Mexican artist There’s also a birthday cake Shoshanna Brott and an urn by Mexican artist Alberto Perera. “It took a few friends to get it from Mexico to NYC to our bathroom.”

Vivian takes a pragmatic approach to his own skincare routine. “I think I spend less time in the bathroom the older I get,” he says. “I’m more embracing of the changes that are taking place to my body and my face. I have a better appreciation for them.” Ultimately, the skin expert sees his bathroom as a functional space – a means to an end. “A skincare routine should be quick and easy and only include what you really need.”

Beyond his own routine (which prioritises a “one-minute cleanse” and SPF), Vivian uses the bathroom to backdrop his online content that speaks candidly about skincare and beauty. It’s also a testing ground for new product development.

After a long day, there’s also a deep soaking tub for relaxation. “I’m someone that loves the idea of a bath and spends more time preparing for a bath than actually in it,” Vivian says. It’s accompanied by Aesop’s Breathless oil – “a 20-year hangover from where I got started in the industry,” Vivian says – and a herbaceous candle from Carriere Freres.

Memories of travels inform other self-care products on high rotation. “Bath salts by Officine Universelle Buly from Paris, the Rum body wash by Malin & Goetz from New York or my favourite fragrance by Stora Skuggan from Athens.”