THE PUNCH FEATURES
Hideout: Preserving Nature
& Cultural Heritage Through Thoughtful Design
April 2024 – Words & Photography by The Punch
Hidden in the lush serenity of East Bali, Hideout was born out of a deep purpose to connect with nature and community. For the founders, Hideout represents a departure from the chaos of modern life, a retreat into the timeless embrace of ancient Bali and the principles of Tri Hita Karana - the unity of nature, community and the divine.
Inspired by Bali's rich culture and the organic beauty of bamboo, Hideout celebrates a vision of sustainable living and artistic expression. The structures rise in harmony with the land, honouring its spirit and embracing its rhythms, just as the bamboo whispers tales of resilience and growth. What began as a simple getaway for one family has evolved into a beautiful sanctuary combining humanity and the natural world.
ABOUT THE BRAND
At Hideout, sustainability goes beyond following green practices, it's a holistic philosophy that extends to every aspect of how they operate.
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
Rather than simply checking off boxes on a sustainability checklist, the team approaches every decision with a deep sense of reverence for the environment and the community in which they operate. From the materials used in construction to the design of each structure, every choice is bespoke and carefully considered with the goal of minimizing environmental impact.
Hideout recognizes that their presence in the natural landscape comes with a responsibility to preserve and protect it. Their philosophy dictates that for every tree cut down, ten more must be planted, ensuring that their impact on the environment remains neutral or positive. This commitment is reflected in their approach to blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Rather than imposing their structures onto the landscape, they strive to integrate them harmoniously, opting for green walls to camouflage man-made structures or carefully considering the impact on neighboring views, every effort is made to minimize disruption to the local ecosystem.
PRESERVING THE ENVIRONMENT & CULTURAL HERITAGE
One key aspect of Hideout's sustainability ethos is their approach to building structures that stand the test of time. Bamboo, renowned for its sustainable properties and versatility, is at forefront of Hideout's commitment to conscious design and cultural preservation. By using bamboo — a durable and renewable material— structures at Hideout can last for decades with proper treatment and design.
Bamboo also holds special significance in the local context, as it is deeply rooted in the region's heritage and ecosystem. By using bamboo in its structures, Hideout not only pays homage to the region's natural resources, but also helps preserve its cultural heritage. This commitment to authenticity goes beyond aesthetics and is reflected in Hideout's efforts to restore native flora and fauna and promote biodiversity in the area. Under the leadership of Nyoman Bamboo and its skilled team of artisans, Hideout's bamboo craftsmanship not only shows the expertise of Balinese artisans, but also promotes vital employment opportunities within the community.
PRESERVING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
Hideout recognizes the importance of creating strong ties with the local community as an integral part of their values. In line with their commitment to preserving local heritage, Hideout explores innovative ways to involve the community. They actively seek collaboration with local farmers to develop alternative incentive structures, such as engaging guests in traditional rice field planting experiences. By integrating guests into these cultural practices, Hideout not only promotes environmental education but also ensures the continuity of local traditions.
In addition, Hideout also actively engages with local government authorities to address environmental concerns and implement regulations aimed at preserving the natural heritage of the area. By collaborating with the broader community, Hideout aims to tackle issues such as plastic pollution in nearby rivers and promote sustainable practices that benefit both residents and visitors alike. Brandon, the co-founder, acknowledges the challenges involved in navigating these discussions but remains committed to maintaining an open dialogue with local stakeholders.
"I'm very conscious of cultural and aesthetic sustainability. We're in an area where building a structure has a lasting impact on the land."
BRANDON VAN SLYKE, CO-FOUNDER OF HIDEOUT
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