BambooU x Kenzo Parfums Scholarship
Design and Build | Bali, Indonesia
August 2023
My summer with bamboo…
Bamboo U, an educational initiative in the heart Bali, has been a beacon of innovation for over a decade. Collaborating with the renowned design firm IBUKU, the school stands at the forefront of pioneering bamboo architecture, generously sharing its wealth of knowledge through diverse courses. My transformative journey with bamboo construction began last August, thanks to a scholarship from KENZO Parfums that granted me the privilege of attending one of their hands-on courses.
The experience blended education, hands-on practice, and fun, bringing together a diverse group of individuals deeply committed to bamboo practice. From seasoned professionals to newcomers entering the world of bamboo, our community shared a common passion. An architect from Brazil shared her own experience,
“When I follow bamboo, it takes me to beautiful places.”
The setting of our meeting in Bali seemed serendipitous. I found myself in the heart of the jungle , surrounded by fellow bamboo enthusiasts. It was a testament to the beauty that bamboo can bring. Transcending borders and connecting people in unexpected places.
The course provided a comprehensive exploration of bamboo, delving into its growth, treatment, and diverse applications in construction. Whether for buildings, furniture, or globally applicable products, Bamboo U illuminated the immense potential of this versatile material. Now, you might be curious if I dove into the hands-on construction work myself. Well, as a city-office-girl-architect, I may not have been initially prepared for it, but hey, #growth!
While Bali may seem uniquely blessed with an abundance of bamboo, the reality is that bamboo can flourish in many parts of the world, but only if its potential is recognized. Even in my current residence in the northern parts of Spain, I encountered clumps of bamboo on a hike, showcasing its adaptability. In Bali, bamboo is more than a material; it possesses a life of its own. The construction systems employed by Bamboo U reflect a deep respect for the material rooted in local carpentry beliefs. One of the key takeaways was a profound realization articulated by IBUKU’s founder, Elora Hardy, when describing her design process
“… what does the material want to be?”
This sentiment encapsulates the essence of bamboo’s inspiration for architectural forms. Through visionary works, like The Arch, an awe-inspiring building we had the privilege of witnessing, IBUKU pushes the boundaries of bamboo construction, revealing its true potential.
The experience instilled in me a profound respect for the world and the materials we use, urging us to harmonize with the natural and contextual elements of our surroundings. Bamboo, with its silent wisdom, continues to bring lessons of sustainability and connectivity, leaving an indelible mark on my journey in architecture and design.
