We offer guided bamboo craft workshops for those passionate about sustainable design and traditional skills. These hands on experiences provide insight into age old techniques. We invite you to learn, create and connect in a way that supports local craft preservation and celebrates the spirit of living a traditional kampong life close to nature.
Duration, half day
Perfect for groups of 2 to 6 people
Enjoy traditional bamboo craftsmanship by creating your own tea tray from freshly cut bamboo, straight from the forest. In this workshop, guided by skilled bamboo artisans you will have the opportunity to shape raw bamboo and make a tray to take home.
Once complete, enjoy tea and delicious homemade banana cake on your handmade tray.
Duration, half day
Perfect for individuals or couples
Spend a peaceful afternoon learning the rare and beautiful art of Letong bamboo instrument making and playing.
In the Bidayuh village of Nyengol, the last generation of makers carries the knowledge of crafting the Letong, an instrument unique to this region of Sarawak.
Each Letong is shaped from a single piece of bamboo, a delicate and skilled process that reflects deep resourcefulness and tradition.
Duration, 2 nights, 3 days (adustable)
Perfect for groups of 4 to 12 people
Learn ancient building techniques to craft your own bamboo raft with the Bidayuh Dayak tribe. Master the craft of bamboo raft building, using natural materials sourced directly from the jungle. Perfect for adventurers and craft enthusiasts. Afterward, cruise along the river on the raft you’ve made.
This activity is suitable for groups, families and those interested in traditional construction methods. It’s a fun and easy adventure, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in jungle life.
Our adventure begins with a scenic boat ride deep into the jungle.
Upon arriving at the homestead, we’ll settle in with a warm welcome lunch before heading out on a gentle hike. Along the way, we’ll observe traditional bamboo harvesting and collect forest vines, learning how they’re carefully peeled and prepared to make string for the raft.
We’ll return to the lodge for a delicious dinner, then wind down and soaking in the jungle.
Today, we’ll dive into the craft of bamboo raft making, beginning with carving and creating the joints. In the afternoon, we’ll focus on weaving and tying the raft together, bringing our creation to life.
We’ll begin the day by rafting down the river to the lagoon, taking in the stunning natural surroundings. Afterward, we’ll make our way back with a scenic rainforest boat ride, enjoying the lush landscape along the way.
Our annual self led residencies invite architectural designers to develop independent projects in a tranquil rainforest setting. Hosted along a serene riverbank, the jungle studio offers an inspiring environment to focus, create and build.
Designers take full creative lead, supported by the local Bidayuh community, who assist with tasks like harvesting bamboo, navigating the jungle, and sharing deep local knowledge. Applicants must submit a project proposal for review.
This residency fosters experimental architecture and cultural exchange, transforming the site into a living space for innovation and mutual growth.
Our annual build residency typically takes place at the end of November. To apply, please submit a title and description of your architectual project in approximately only 300 words, along with up to 3 images. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Submissions can be sent via WhatsApp, see our contact page for details.
Here are some guiding questions to assist you in crafting your project description:
What are the inspirations and key concepts behind your build project?
What challenges might you encounter during the build?
What tools, equipment and materials will you use to build?
Throughout your stay, you’ll receive guidance and support for your project. Regular catch ups provide an opportunity to discuss your progress, refine your plan and ensure you have everything need Stay at the lodge and enjoy nourishing meals prepared with care by the local community. Tools reqquired to be discussed prior to your residency to ensure you’re fully equipped for your work. Typically, these are available, depending on the scope of your project.
ARCHITECT ArchiGardener
YEAR 2023
Nestled in nature this sheltered space allows for connection with your surrounds. Built to preserve, the structure blends into the canopy, offering protection from the elements while maintaining harmony. A refuge in the woods, offering a serene place of contemplation with views of the river.
ARTISTS Arran & Ben
YEAR 2024
Arran and Ben ventured into the jungle to co-create the residency program. A transformative journey exploring earth, bamboo and reimagining an unused storage space into something new.
From the ground up, a journey of discovery and learning as they explore the process of creating a new floor, filling the unused space with potential. Located at the gateway to a large cleared area that will soon become a future workshop, their explorations are beginning to shape the land’s future.
Intertwining music, art, storytelling and tradition, delving into the history of the place and the land. Their work honors the past, captures the current spirit and creates space for a vision of the future.