Home Tour: BASQ House is Redefining Luxury in Byron Bay

Byron Bay has long been a destination that entices travellers with its perfect blend of coastal allure and laid-back charm, but a new boutique hotel, situated right in the heart of town, is set to redefine luxury accommodation in this iconic region.

Just moments from the sun-kissed sands of Main Beach and steps from the buzzing centre of town, BASQ House offers an unparalleled fusion of tranquillity and vibrancy that feels like a world unto its own.

The 32-room boutique hotel is the brainchild of co-owners and developers Matt Walsh and Shane Wilkinson, who wanted to create more than just a place to stay—it’s a “quiet and relaxing oasis” where guests could either soak up all of the hotel’s spoils (like taking a dip in the heated magnesium pool) or head out and enjoy the vibrant energy of Byron right on their doorstep.

Byron Calling

“It’s designed to encourage interaction and connection among guests and places for socialising, eating, drinking, and playing. We want our guests to feel that they are staying at a luxury home but with all the privacy this boutique hotel offers,” Matt Walsh explains of his intentions for BASQ House.

The vision was to provide guests a space to unwind in luxury, whether by lounging in the beautifully appointed rooms or enjoying the free-flowing communal spaces like the lounge room and library.

These areas were designed to encourage mingling between guests, fostering a sense of community while providing the privacy a boutique hotel affords.

When Matt first encountered the property nearly a decade ago, he was immediately struck by its potential. The quiet street, just a three-minute walk from the beach, and the layout provided the perfect canvas for his hotel. “The two-street frontage also allowed us to design an entry dedicated to hotel guests only,” Matt says.

An Unwavering Vision

The site was cleared, and a substantial renovation ensued, including constructing two underground basement levels and three levels above ground, topped off with a stunning rooftop area.

Despite the scale of the project, the construction was completed in just 18 months, and BASQ House officially opened its doors in June this year.

Throughout the process, the vision remained steadfast, particularly regarding the central role of the pool in the design. “Fundamentally, our vision didn’t change from wanting the centrepiece of the hotel to be the pool,” Matt says. The hotel rooms overlooking the pool add to the chilled atmosphere.

In a town where new openings are a dime a dozen and where minimalism reigns supreme, BASQ House balances artful sophistication with authenticity in a way that feels fresh and new.

The interiors of BASQ House, styled by Léo Terrando, echo the tranquil and welcoming atmosphere at the hotel’s heart. Drawing inspiration from the grandeur of Moroccan riads and giving it a modern remix, it’s a space that feels both timeless and contemporary.

A gorgeous skylit staircase leads up to the bedrooms, which boast high ceilings, soft colour palettes and natural, layered materials.

“We incorporated a range of decorative elements, including sculptures, plants, books, and artwork, to make the space feel inviting and lived-in,” Léo explains.

Unwind in Style

The goal was to create a “home away from home” where guests could unwind in style. The use of vintage pieces adds character and depth to the design, while the light finishes reflect the coastal setting of Byron Bay, ensuring that the interiors feel airy and connected to the area’s natural beauty.

“The overall aesthetic is cohesive yet varied, offering guests a rich visual experience,” Léo reveals.

A typical day at BASQ House is about taking it easy and not rushing out the door. Start the day with a refreshing swim in the magnesium pool, followed by a leisurely breakfast, before snuggling up in the library with a good book. As the day unfolds, guests can indulge in a massage, take a nap, or explore the buzzing town of Byron Bay.

Both Matt and Léo are proud of their accomplishments. “We successfully realised our vision and created a beautiful, welcoming space for guests,” says Léo.

PROJECT CREDITS:

Interior Styling: Léo Terrando @leoterrando

Architect: Studio FAB @thestudiofab

Build: Pace Development Group @pacedevelopmentgroup

Photography: Elise Hassey @elisehassey

Words: Bella Brennan @bellarosebrennan and Jessica Bosco

Enjoyed our home tour of Basq House and want to keep perving some of the most stylish places going around? Take a look inside Sona Molong, then check out this dopamine-inducing bungalow in Brunswick East.