Venue Crush: Barefoot Vibes at a Chic Coastal Getaway

All images courtesy of The Bower, Byron Bay

Redefining the concept of a no-frills Aussie motel, The Bower has pushed the boundaries of beachside boutique, bringing a touch of New York glamour to the laid-back bohemia of Byron Bay. Transformed from a retro ‘60s motel into a collection of chic contemporary abodes, this beautiful bolthole – the creative work of Taliah Lowry – effortlessly combines the essence of Byron with an edge of Manhattan urban cool. 

Sophisticated yet laid-back, luxurious yet understated, The Bower is lust-worthy inside and out. With Insta-moments at every turn, this plush boutique is the go-to backdrop for endless photo shoots and events. Now with the addition of a circular pool and lush tropical gardens, Insta-fans everywhere (yes, that includes us) are flocking from near and far to get a slice – or snap – of the action. 

A complex of sorts boasting 14 suites, a secluded barn, quaint cottage and spacious family house. A cool palette of fresh, neutral tones echoes through each property, while the minimalist scheme peppered with accents of bronze, green and copper, creates a sense of comfort and serenity. The Bower is a place where you can truly relax and unwind in style. 

The Bower Suites

First up are The Bower Suites. Your classic motel room with ensuite, all styled in the signature Bower aesthetic. An effortless combo of one-off vintage finds and sleek contemporary furnishings – the definition of understated elegance.

The Bower Barn               

The Bower Barn, complete with pitched roof, wooden beams and barn doors is a private retreat perfect for couples or a small family. A freestanding bath adds extra romance – a glass ceiling is positioned directly above, where guests can gaze up at the swaying palm trees by day and the twinkling stars by night.

Grey distressed walls and exposed pipe taps bring a hint of industrialism, but the barn’s soothing white interiors offset against wooden floorboards and crisp white cladding, introduce a sense of homely rustic charm. 

The Bower Cottage

Stunning in look and feel, The Bower Cottage, a 100-year-old country home, will steal your heart at first glance, but it’s the interiors that are guaranteed to leave you breathless. Generous, yet simple in style with many of the original features intact, The Bower Cottage accommodates up to ten guests with five bedrooms (three with ensuites), a full kitchen, a private outdoor space, and surrounding landscaped gardens. 

The Bower House

Finishing off the collection is The Bower House. A subtle contrast to the cottage, the house is contemporary and open-plan, with a full kitchen and living space, and four bedrooms upstairs, each with an ensuite. Outside is a paved, sheltered terrace secluded by tropical gardens.

The jewel in The Bower’s crown is the circular swimming pool; an oasis bounded by lush gardens and towering palm trees. 

Five luxe daybeds beckon seductively – this space is for unadulterated lounging – and are separated by small tables and curtains, or in the shallows of the water along the sweeping steps. The result is ultimate relaxation. 

Everything about The Bower embodies Byron Bay’s laid-back coastal lifestyle, and its close proximity to the village, beach and dramatic coastline make exploring a total breeze. 

In just a short drive you’ll reach lush hinterland, crashing surf swells and beautiful rock pools, whilst the weekly markets selling fresh produce and handcrafted artisan goods, give a taste of what it’s like to be a Byron local. 

Plus, there's an array of boutiques and an eclectic mix of cafés, restaurants and bars serving up everything from cappuccinos to crustaceans.