This iconic Australian destination in Byron Bay’s Watego’s beach now welcomes a new chapter in its design story with the unveiling of Raes Guesthouses. Located a short stroll uphill from the original property, Raes Guesthouses is nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, with interiors curated by Tamsin Johnson—her design effortlessly blending Mediterranean influences through a distinctly laid-back coastal charm.
Introducing a new evolution in the legacy of Raes on Wategos, the unveiling of Raes Guesthouses introduces a thoughtful extension of the brand’s unmistakable allure— through the discerning eye of Australian interior designer Tamsin Johnson. The newly completed ten-suite guesthouse is both an homage and a fresh, new design-driven interpretation of Raes’ original coastal soul.
Byron Bay is synonymous with an effortless synergy between natural beauty and architectural innovation, where a relaxed coastal aesthetic meets an ever-evolving design landscape. At the heart of this, Raes is one of Australia’s most iconic and revered hospitality brands, well loved with Byron Bay’s unique oceanic spirit, offering a portfolio of luxury properties that deliver exceptional, distinctly Australian experiences, all while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and local sourcing.
Housed within two adjoining buildings, Raes Guesthouse offers ten suites, a pair of tranquil lap pools, and a collection of common areas. Designed to embody quiet luxury and easy elegance, the interiors evoke a mood that feels both nostalgic and modern—drawing on Mediterranean influences while remaining deeply grounded in the rhythm and palette of Byron Bay’s natural landscape.
A communal dining room with natural tones and an open log fireplace encourages shared moments alongside a collection of design-inspired books for guests to enjoy.
Renowned for her distinctive approach to mixing eras, materials, and moods, Johnson brings her signature style to the project with a refined ease. Each suite is appointed with custom-designed bedheads, luxurious king beds, and sweeping views of either Wategos Beach or lush garden surrounds. Soft curves and hand-moulded plasterwork give the interiors a sculptural feel, offset by vintage-inspired lighting, bespoke joinery, and tactile finishes in cane, glazed tiles, and soft French linens.
“The vision was to build on the soul of the original Raes property while responding to the unique architecture of this new space,” Johnson explains. “We wanted to retain the intimacy and warmth Raes is known for but reinterpret it with a more playful, coastal energy.” A shared design language ties the two properties together, with strong material statements reinforcing the sense of a singular identity across the Raes portfolio.
This interior narrative is echoed across the common spaces: a communal dining room with natural tones and an open log fireplace encourages shared moments, while the dual pools—each enclosed by tropical landscaping—invite guests to embrace the slow rhythm of coastal life. On the western side, a 16-metre lap pool anchored by a cascading waterfall creates a dramatic centrepiece, while the eastern pool offers a quieter moment, bordered by a shaded cabana.
Founder and Interior Designer, Tamsin Johnson.
Thoughtful detailing extends to the culinary offering, with Raes Executive Chef Jason Saxby crafting an in-house menu reflective of the property’s relaxed sophistication. Dishes include spanner crab tagliolini, swordfish katsu sandwiches, and Australiana-dressed oysters bring a sense of playful refinement, with poolside snacks and in-room dining reinforcing the guesthouse’s focus on comfort.
As Raes celebrates its 30th anniversary, the guesthouse stands as a confident extension of the original brand, designed not only to meet the growing demand from returning guests but also to introduce a new expression of hospitality. “It was important that we preserved Raes’ boutique spirit while evolving the experience,” says Managing Director Jordy Catalano. “This is about generosity, intimacy, and creating something truly memorable.”
