Lorna Jane buys Nine Perfect Strangers’ Byron Bay retreat

Australian activewear pioneer Lorna Jane Clarkson has expanded her already impressive property portfolio with the acquisition of Byron Bay’s renowned SOMA wellness retreat for $10.98 million, setting a new benchmark for the hinterland hamlet of Ewingsdale.

The purchase of the 21-acre estate, famed for its starring role in the Nicole Kidman-led TV series Nine Perfect Strangers, marks Clarkson’s third major investment in the Byron region. Her portfolio already includes the $14.1 million Coorabell estate, known as the site of Margot Robbie’s wedding, and a luxurious beach house.

Clarkson, ranked No. 68 on The Australian Financial Review Rich Women list with a valuation of $303 million, acquired SOMA from founders Gary Gorrow and Peter Ostick, who designed the retreat in 2018 as a modernist haven blending architectural innovation with Byron’s lush hinterland landscape.

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OMA wellness retreat has sold for $10.98 million

The retreat featured in the Nicole Kidman-led TV series Nine Perfect Strangers. (Photo by: Vince Valitutti/Hulu)

The dome featured prominently in the TV show.

The retreat’s main entrance.

The property’s earning potential, reportedly exceeding $1.8 million annually, underscores its appeal as both a lifestyle asset and a lucrative investment.

“It’s a magical place,” Clarkson told The Financial Review.

“I feel like it’s the perfect space to relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect. Wellness is growing, and when we found out SOMA was on the market, we just jumped at it.”

The estate, which boasts features such as a geodesic yoga dome, infra-red sauna, ice bath, freshwater heated infinity pool, and Zen gardens, will remain largely unchanged under Clarkson’s ownership.

She plans to maintain its current operations while exploring opportunities for corporate retreats, conferences, and podcast recordings.

With its striking design by architects Rieky Sunur and George Gorrow, SOMA has earned global recognition for its seamless integration of form and function.

The main residence offers expansive glass-wrapped interiors, polished timber finishes, and breathtaking views from every angle.

Lorna Jane Clarkson plans to continue running the property as a wellness retreat.

One of the 10 bedrooms.

The large kitchen and dining area.

The living space is decked out in natural tones.

Its 10 indulgent bedroom suites, sprawling hardwood decks, and luxurious amenities make it a versatile property suited for private use or as a retreat destination.

Clarkson’s acquisition eclipses the $10.49 million paid by pub baron Arthur Laundy for nearby hospitality venue The Farm in 2020, further cementing SOMA’s status as one of Byron Shire’s most iconic properties.

The sale was managed by Will Phillips of Sotheby’s International Realty Byron Bay, who described SOMA as “a rare and exceptional investment opportunity” on its realestate.com.au sales ad.

Clarkson’s foray into the wellness retreat market aligns with her entrepreneurial ethos, which she credits for building her activewear empire.

Founded in 1989, Lorna Jane Active now boasts 100 retail stores and reported $199.6 million in revenue for FY24.

As SOMA continues to attract bookings months in advance, Clarkson’s vision for the property reflects her belief in creating spaces that inspire balance and self-care.

“You need to create a life you don’t want to escape from,” she told the Financial Review. “But there are times when you do want to recharge and focus on yourself.”

The post Lorna Jane buys Nine Perfect Strangers’ Byron Bay retreat appeared first on realestate.com.au.