Raes on Wategos welcomes a new chapter, expanding into the former Victoria’s at Wategos site. The neighbouring property, just 100 metres away from the original, will offer 10 new suites, each receiving the full Raes treatment. “The opportunity to procure a property as iconic as Victoria’s was one we embraced wholeheartedly,” says managing director Jordy Catalano. “It’s an extension of what we’ve got currently, rather than something entirely new.”
The team has enlisted interior designer Tamsin Johnson, who is responsible for the original property’s 2016 refurbishment, to bring more of the relaxed finesse Raes has become known for. Once again, Johnson will source intricate wares from across the globe to underpin her spirited take on Byron Bay chic. “Tamsin is one of the best in the business,” says Catalano. “She has access to incredible vintage pieces. Operationally she’s got great insights from across the world [and from staying] in some of the world’s best hotels.”
Raes executive chef Jason Saxby is also on board, with a food and drink offering that – unlike Raes dining room – will be exclusive to hotel guests. There will also be more space for private functions, events and intimate dining experiences such as private chef dinners for guests. “The new property with the extra communal space gives us the ability to do more,” says Catalano.
Indoor common areas will feature open log fireplaces, two impressive lap pools (one with a waterfall) and a 12-metre solar-heated pool with a cabana and lounge area. “We like when guests end up chatting to each other in the Cellar Bar, and then they pull up a table, and the next day they have lunch together,” says Catalano “The new space will facilitate those relationships even more. Our clientele are very like-minded.”
While conviviality amongst guests will be enhanced, the new building will also offer more privacy, with the property being exclusive to hotel guests only. Much like the original Raes, the new phase will build on the brand’s legacy that has an international lens, with a local Byron edge, an accumulation of experiences from the entire team across 30 years.
“Raes has been the product of years of travel, myself, my family and the management team involved. It hasn’t been one person, but a group contributing to this project,” says Catalano.
Raes Guesthouses is open for bookings now.
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