Owned by Melbourne-based friends Matt Walsh and Shane Wilkinson, BASQ House is nestled in the idyllic Byron Bay, on traditional Bundjalung Country. Tucked away in a quiet laneway in the heart of Byron's village centre and set amongst the rolling hinterland, the hotel is surrounded by the regions vibrant hospitality, wellness and world-renowned beach culture. It balances this merging of cultures with its unique blend of bold, eclectic interiors, creating a harmonious atmosphere that is both vibrant and soothing, evoking a sense of peacefulness and relaxation.
The hotel leans into its distinctly eclectic interior style, taking notes from owners Matt and Shane who wanted the property to serve as a home-away-from home, evoking the personal and warm feeling of staying over at a friend's house. The design was brought to life under the guardianship of Matt Dalby, Creative Director and Founder of StudioFAB and locally based Interior designer Léo Terrando.
Inspired by the grandeur of Moroccan riads, the hotel pays homage to tradition, orienting rooms to overlook the central temperature-controlled magnesium pool; a contemporary take on the picturesque sanctuary design. The hotel also borrows aspects of design similar to that of residential design to convey a sense of homeliness and humility, with the design maintaining a distinct indoor and outdoor aesthetic that is perfect for its Byron location. The reception area features décor and fixtures from local artists and an eclectic array of wares, from artwork by Byron Bay artist Damian Bisogni, to pendant lights from Tigmi Trading. The space doubles as a bar, inviting guests to sit back and unwind in true retreat fashion.
The Lounge Room takes design cues from the classic speakeasy-style bars; a generous space which seamlessly flows into the outdoors and is littered with an array of bespoke rugs from Byron Bay brand Pampa and feature pieces from Bohdi Living. The broad ranging and intentionally layered space oozes warmth, with original artworks lining the space's walls offering a glimpse into the regions artistic heritage.
The hotel's Library is an intimate space bolstered by a whimsical three panelled Brazilian Rainforest artwork, carved wooden masks from South Africa and bespoke floor-to-ceiling bookcases generously stacked with a collection of all genres, including classics, travel, art, design, literature and photography. Low-slung leather sofas and an open fireplace add to the easy and laidback luxury of the space, making it the perfect cosy spot for guests to unwind, relax, work or rest up in colder months with a glass of wine and a good book.
The hotel rooms adopt multiple formats, and are an intentional leap from the rich colours and layers native to the rest of the hotel, instead opting for stylish minimalism. A soothing colour palette of neutral undertones complement the bespoke honey-hued timber joinery utilised throughout the rooms. The interiors have maturity and a pared-back sensibility, adding yet another layer of intentional relaxation amongst a design tapestry of life, eclectic experiences and cultures.
BASQ House was driven by the design philosophy dedicated to intertwining multiple cultural influences and artistic expressions, embracing the bold and punchy forms of Fauvism alongside Bohemian touches, whilst still weaving through minimalism when necessary. The hotel rooms easily leans into its naturally explorative nature, constructing an artful tapestry of influences, eras, tones and textures in spaces that are intentionally layered and robust.
BASQ House offers guests all manners of experiences and varieties of stays, from those oriented towards wellness, relaxation, adventure or wining and dining. The hotel's landscape frames a logo embossed pool, daybeds and cabanas for guests to laze in the sun and soak up every inch of relaxation from this contemporary oasis.
Alternatively the hotel is located mere moments from Main Beach, Clarkes Beach and The Pass. Not much further is Wategos Beach and the Cape Byron walking track to the famous Byron Bay Lighthouse, for guests who are eager on exploring and taking in every inch of the stunning coastlines characteristic of this quiet corner of the country. Guests will also have access to push bikes, beach shades, surfboards and two dedicated guest share vehicles to make the most of every minute of their stay and every moment spent in the impressive landscape.
Those so-inclined to health and wellness will enjoy the holistic approach of Byron Bay as Australia's wellbeing capital, including the hotel's rooftop which offers zones for self-guided yoga and meditation. As well the Bathhouse and Wellness Centre which are available through BASQ House for infrared saunas, ice plunges and other invigorating treatments. Those who are looking for an indulgent and luxurious stay will be spoilt for choice by Byron's rich hospitality culture, with the BASQ House located just steps from popular spots like Lovers Lane, Light Years, Bar Heather and more.
Visit BASQ House to experience the richness of all Byron Bay has to offer, in a space that welcomes guests as lifelong friends in an equally relaxing and exciting setting. To learn more about BASQ House and to book your stay visit their website or follow their Instagram to keep up to date on offers and news.
