Being a lover of unique architecture and design, I knew that Byng Street Hotel was the next venue to shoot the new-look Rose Botanical Collection with our model Marta. Even locals want to stay for a night or weekend of R&R after taking a step inside this boutique hotel! I also had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing proprietor, Kristen Nock, to gain a little insight into her world as the owner of the hotel and businesswoman. Here, Kristen shares her business and mindfulness tips, and how she juggles work, motherhood and time out for self-care.

The Byng Street Boutique Hotel is a unique accommodation experience located in the heart of Orange’s heritage precinct, the perfect location to enjoy everything Orange has to offer. A beautiful juxtaposition of the significant historical homestead and contemporary architecture, this 4.5 star hotel welcomes guests who appreciate unique style, luxurious comfort and sophistication. Once a family home, the front of the Byng Street Boutique Hotel is the original homestead “Yallungah”, built in 1896 by the architect, William Lamrock. Yallungah was acquired by the Nock family in November 2014, with the intention of restoring the house its original grandeur and expanding upon this to create a beautiful boutique hotel that can be shared with the community and visiting guests.

Proprietors, Thomas and Kristen Nock, have spent their entire professional careers in hospitality. Their passion and commitment to detail ensures every guest has an enjoyable stay.

What does self-care mean to you?

Taking an active role and making time in this busy world we live in to protect our own well-being and happiness, particularly during periods of stress. Prioritising myself over others which can be tough to accomplish being a working mum!

How do you practise self-care? What does your ritual involve?

Since my teenage years, thankfully my mum drilled into me the importance of spending the time to take good care of my skin with quality products and the routine of cleansing, toning and moisturising each morning and night. This is something I have continued and enjoy. It’s probably the only strict “ritual” that I have! I also enjoy taking small amounts of time out for a facial or a massage, making time to have dinner with friends and the occasional cheeky weekend away.

When the going gets tough, how do you show yourself acts of love and kindness?

As above, I enjoy taking small amounts of time out for a facial or a massage, making time to have dinner with friends and creating some space for myself by going away somewhere relaxing for a couple of days to unwind and clear my head.

What brings you joy in the home environment?

Spending time with my beautiful family, even if it’s just a lazy Sunday afternoon on the lounge in front of the fire watching Netflix. We all love great food so cooking together is a lot of fun. I love that we have two teenage boys who are interested in putting great food on the table. I am determined to have them well trained when they eventually leave home!

We enjoy entertaining friends at home with long lunches or dinners, sharing fabulous food and local wine.

What is your most treasured possession with sentimental value?

My grandfather’s medals earned from serving in the Australian Army in WW2. He inspired me to embark on and complete one of the greatest, most memorable and challenging journeys of my life, the Kokoda Trail.

Tell us about your favourite weekend ritual.

Owning a hotel business generally means that working every weekend is a given, however if I can make it to watch my kids play sport and take some time to catch up with friends either at home or out and about, I am pretty happy!

What lessons have you learned in life?

Most recently it has been a challenging first 18 months to start a business, opening during a long-standing drought, then bushfires meant guests from locations such as Sydney were unable to make it through the Blue Mountains to us and then the dreaded COVID pandemic. The learning curves have been a plenty. You certainly find out who your real tribe is and who your true supporters are that’s for sure! This period has been a professional and personal learning in terms of true loyalty and the importance of working out who will be there for you when the going gets tough. Don’t be afraid to let some people go from your life – enjoy the memories that you have shared, however they don’t necessarily need to hold a place in your future. “In life, we never really lose friends, we only learn who the true ones are”.

Do you have a favourite quote or words you live by?

Carpe Diem! Seize the Day! Forget the mistake, remember the lesson.

Describe what scent means to you? Do you gravitate towards any particular notes?

Scent is a distinctive smell that reminds me of something or someone. I love associating a friend with the perfume they wear. I tend to gravitate towards citrus notes.

How do you indulge?

Take a day off work, sleep in, do zero house work, have a massage and/or facial and go out for dinner at my favourite local restaurant, RAKU!

Where is your home away from home?

I don’t necessarily have a home away from home, however our favourite holiday destination is Noosa. I love spending time by the beach with my family, relaxing without an agenda and having access to great restaurants and shopping options.

What are you looking forward to most this year?

I am looking forward to continuing to establish the Byng Street Hotel and build on the strong business that we have created. Hopefully this year we can enjoy our first “normal” year of operation without catastrophes such as bushfires or global pandemics getting in the way!