Voyages (http://www.voyages.com), a company well-known for its resorts throughout Australia, has embarked on a $1.6 million upgrade at El Questro Homestead, a luxe cattle ranch property in the Kimberley region of northern Western Australia. Sydney interior architectural design firm Pike Withers will give the Homestead a more contemporary look and feel, with modern pieces set against rustic furnishings.
Recycled Western Australian timber, natural stone and fresh cream colors will be the backdrop throughout the six-bedroom property, offset with contemporary pieces including Italian Zanotta sofas, modern Italian ottomans in natural linens and woven cane chairs from Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola. The bar in the main Homestead lounge will be repositioned to look out over the terrace and lawn.
The Chamberlain Suite, perched above the Chamberlain Gorge, is undergoing a major refurbishment. Due to the popularity of the outside bath in the Chamberlain Suite, outside bathtubs will be added on private decks in the two adjoining Chamberlain Gorge Rooms. Bathrooms in these units will be extended to sit on the balcony, with their baths situated right above the gorge.
El Questro is customarily open April 1-October 31, closing annually for the tropical wet season. Renovations are being carried out in time for the usual April re-opening. Rates start at approximately $785 in a Homestead Room, $845 in a Chamberlain Gorge Room and $920 for the Chamberlain Suite. Prices are per person double and include all meals, premium alcoholic beverages and touring, with a minimum two-night stay. The property doesn't accept children under 12 years old. (MR)