Tiing Hotel Bali
Bali is a popular tropical holiday destination that is ecologically and culturally diverse. Tourists come to Bali looking to experience its delightful culture and art while relaxing in the lap of nature. To cater to the crowd, most of the luxury hotels are located in Southern Bali. Bucking this trend, The Tiing Hotel is located in the northern part of the island. With its remote location, The Tiing Hotel promises a private natural escapade to those who dare to explore the road not taken.
At the resort, guests are greeted by 14 private villas. The villas are constructed using concrete and bamboo, two materials widely available in the region. Each villa is flanked by large concrete walls on either side, creating a tunnel-like appearance. The walls offer complete privacy while framing views of the beach in front, and green hills at the back. 
The exterior of the concrete walls are given a unique texture. The texture was created by casting the concrete in bamboo. This method forms a continuity between the concrete and bamboo. The unevenness of the texture makes it a beautiful background in the lush setting, emphasising the wild side of nature. Taking the wabi-sabi approach, the design leans into glorifying the beauty of imperfection. The materials are chosen for their ability to weather in gracefully, an inevitability in the tropical climate of Bali.
Local architecture and design reign supreme in the interiors of the villas. The textured concrete walls and concrete flooring complement each other. Against this grey backdrop are set furniture and furnishings in wood, bamboo and wicker. Together, these pieces exhibit the craftsmanship of local artisans, while lending warmth to the rooms. Warm lighting and plants are used throughout the design. Each suite is designed with its own private pool and terrace. The private plunge pool is attached to an open to sky bath. Stone flooring with concrete walkways and tropical plants create a natural ambience in this bathroom.
Days at The Tiing can be spent cycling or trekking through the hills of Tejakula. The location of the hotel also provides opportunities for activities like fishing, snorkelling and diving. Guests can dine at Jangki, an organic restaurant that serves fresh and authentic Balinese food. Those looking for a relaxing holiday can also choose from activities like yoga and cooking classes, along with massage treatments at the spa. 
The Tiing Hotel is a masterpiece in design by Australian designer Nic Brunsdon. The design and experience of the hotel make it worth the journey away from the more usual tourist hotspots. The beauty of the location is seen in every part of the design, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. Guests at The Tiing are rewarded with a truly original way to holiday.
Photography Ben Hosking benhosking.com.au