Susie is the founder of Byron Bay based relaxation space, Comma. We chat about what inspired her to create a space where people can take some time out, how she practices self care and her exciting plans for the new year.
Susie wears the Kamala Short Sleeve Shirt in Vintage White and the Tala Canvas Pant in Dover
Hi Susie, can you tell us a little about yourself?
I grew up in Yamba, a small coastal town about 90 minutes south of Byron. It was an amazing place to be raised. After uni, I relocated to Sydney and started a social media agency where I worked around the clock for five years.
What inspired you to open Comma?
It was while working at a social media agency that I realised I probably wasn't the only one who felt like a hamster on a wheel. I wanted to do something a little more meaningful, which made people feel good. Don’t get me wrong, social media is amazing, but I needed something tangible. Comma is a space created so people can take some time for themselves, even only for an hour, to switch off and genuinely feel rewired.
There wasn’t anywhere that I would like to spend my down-time that didn’t feel dated. I wanted to create a space that felt modern, personable and reflective of a lifestyle, not just a moment.
Consciously minimal and bathed in pacifying low light—Comma represents a lifestyle that’s enriched and balanced. Can you share with us the process of designing a space that inspires stillness?
Our process really focused on supporting Australian designers and makers as well as sourcing everything locally—from the bed linen to the pot plants to every product that we use. We also aimed to create an experience where the five senses are fully engaged.
For those wishing to visit you for the first time, how do you suggest they navigate your treatment menu?
My suggestion is to wait until you arrive. Let us talk you through the treatments and pick something that suits how you’re feeling at that particular moment. It’s also a bit of fun, we don’t like to take ourselves too seriously.
As the name implies, Comma stands for taking a moment to breathe, regenerate, find calm, and begin again. In what ways do you seek to explore this in your own life?
Sweat every day. And always get in the ocean, even if it looks abysmal I never regret it.
Tell us about your neighborhood. Where are your favourite places to eat and shop?
Byron has so many great places! My favourites would have to be St. Agni, Worn Store, Nagnata, Super Natural, Raes, The Roadhouse and Doma.
Can you share with us the last thing you read that inspired you?
I’m currently reading Jacinda Arden’s biography which is amazing. She’s definitely leading the way for women in power!
Our bedside tables are often a candid reflection of our personalities. What’s on yours right now?
If that’s the case, I’m very boring - ha! Right now it’s a Maison Louis candle, Maison Balzac room spray and a few books with the intention to read, but falling asleep before getting to them.
Susie wears the Kamala Short Sleeve Shirt in Vintage White and the Tala Canvas Pant in Dover
What are you working on at the moment?
We’re currently building another Comma in Melbourne that will include a bath house. Coming very soon!
Any new year's resolutions for 2020?
I’m notoriously bad at keeping on top of my inboxes, so it’s the year to stay on top of it. And I’ve sworn off fries.
To see more of Susie & Comma:
@commabyron