Named after the mind altering Soma plant referenced in Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World, this retreat in Byron Bay is a dream come true for a seasoned meditation teacher seeking an alternative to the bustle of Sydney.
Gary Gorrow taught meditation for many years with a goal of one day teaching in a space of his own.
When the time was right Gary turned to his brother, a hotelier residing in Bali, for design inspiration.
The result was a bespoke architectural space more ambitious - and with challenges far greater - than Gary had ever imagined.
Nature played a starring role in the design process at Soma, from an earthy interior palette at the residence to the translucent geodesic dome inspired by American architect Richard Buckminster Fuller.
Every aspect of the design aesthetic at Soma is intended to exist in symbiosis with the natural beauty of the forest.
Up Next in Design Story: Byron Bay
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The Range
Childhood memories of the Canary Islands and a joint sabbatical in Spain became key influences on the design of Emma and Tom Lane’s finca inspired home, set amongst 120 acres of Byron hinterland. A last-minute halt to the demolition of a 1980’s farmhouse on the property saw the Lane’s come up wit...
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Las Palmas
Sally McGarry grew up in Fenner House, a home designed by eminent Australian architect Robin Boyd and commissioned by her grandfather, Professor Frank Fenner, a virologist and pioneer of environmental design. Fond childhood memories of garden parties and family gatherings at Fenner House inspired...
