A New Era in Byron Bay: The Bonobo Unveiled
Nestled on Jonson Street, The Bonobo is a fresh addition to the vibrant landscape of Byron Bay. This three-level hotel, conceived by Richard and Spence, marks the latest endeavor from the team behind Raes on Wategos. With 74 rooms and residences, The Bonobo brings a new level of sophistication and charm to the heart of this coastal town.
The project is the result of a long-standing partnership between Studio Manifold and Raes. Over the past three years, the creative synergy between the two has flourished. Lachlan Cooper, Co-Founder of Studio Manifold, highlights the unique approach taken by the team. “Raes are renowned for their exceptional service and experience,” he says. “With Raes on Wategos being the primary brand designed by Tamsin Johnson, there is an expectation with the interiors of a Raes project.” However, rather than replicating the Wategos formula, Studio Manifold aimed to carve out a distinct identity.
The architectural challenge was to create a space that avoided the typical clichés of barefoot luxury while still being resilient enough for a country town. Morgan Novy, Co-Founder of Studio Manifold, explains, “There was a strong emphasis on creating a space that felt lived-in.” This philosophy is evident throughout the hotel, particularly in the central courtyard. Surrounded by verdant greenery, the courtyard brings natural light and ventilation into the heart of the building.
The rooftop pool offers panoramic views of the Byron Bay lighthouse and the surrounding hinterland. Lounge seating and daybeds provide the perfect setting for lazy afternoons, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. The interiors, influenced by Brazilian modernism, reflect a deep appreciation for color and texture. “Brazilians are known for their brutalist architecture, but they are also very good at softening interior spaces and adding color, which we felt energises the spaces,” explains Lachlan.
Beyond traditional hotel offerings, The Bonobo introduces a range of residential and hybrid ownership options. One, two, and three-bedroom layouts offer generous space, with the ability to connect rooms for larger groups. The signature scent of Le Labo Santal 33 permeates the hotel, found in amenities, candles, and even worn by staff. Interiors feature custom pieces developed with Jardan alongside a curated selection of vintage furnishings sourced both locally and internationally.
The distinction between designing for residents versus transient guests is a key consideration for Studio Manifold. “It’s a different approach,” shares Lachlan. “When designing for someone who resides in a space, you focus on functionality and how someone lives. For a hotel, the function is different, and the wear and tear is more prominent.” Despite this, the team avoids framing the project as purely commercial. “We try not to look at it as a commercial project versus a residential because a lot of the work we try to create, say in the lobby, is to feel like someone’s living room.”
This domestic sensibility extends to the lobby, where a relaxed atmosphere invites guests to work or enjoy a martini. Elsewhere, the tone becomes more playful, especially in the bathrooms. The team admits to having fun with the design brief, incorporating elements that shift the vibe during nighttime hours. The ceiling detail, for instance, serves as a skylight by day and transforms into a low-lit disco at night through hidden LED lighting.
Pops of chartreuse in the bar and lobby lounge add a touch of energy, echoing the influence of Brazilian modernism. “We love finding one-off pieces – it’s something we have fun doing,” adds Lachlan. The lighting scheme features half custom-made pieces and the other half sourced from vintage collections, emphasizing discovery over uniformity.
In summary, The Bonobo represents a bold departure from conventional hotel design, blending Brazilian modernism with a fresh, unpretentious approach. Its thoughtful design and attention to detail make it a standout destination in Byron Bay.
