A Quite Long History of Bali Hotel Architecture Part VII: Bamboo and Sustainability

In Balinese culture and tradition, five elements play an important role in the making of architecture. The five is known as “pancamahabhuta” meaning essential elements of being. The five consists of “pertiwi” (earth), “apah” (fluid), “teja” (light-energy), “bayu” (wind-air), “akasa” (space) that constitute beings between earth and sky. Because of the five elements, “beings’”are able to present in the life-world as things. Since “being” manifests in two concepts: “purusha” (intangible) and “pekerti” (tangible), the sense of presence is not simply matter; the presence comes into being in various forms of five elements.

In 2007, Fivelements was conceived as an integrated wellness lifestyle company whose authentic destinations offer an opportunity for inspiration, awareness and progress in the 21st century. Its focus is on designing high impact wellness strategies aimed at supporting individuals, couples and organisations enduring life transitions and transformation. Its first hotel, Fivelements Retreat Bali opened in late 2010 and has been recognised with multiple international awards spanning across hotel, wellness, spa, culinary and sustainable design industries.

The eco-wellness hotel was designed by Arte Architect & Associates led by Balinese architect Ketut Arthana. Located between Ubud and Tabanan, it offers a unique opportunity to experience Bali’s healing and spiritual culture. The hotel consists of several bamboo villas, a riverside spa…