R+W NATURALS: John and Cynthia Hardy
This week, my 3-year-old daughter and I finally watched Alice in Wonderland. It’s been a favorite of mine for years, so I was thrilled to introduce it to her. Like any great children’s book, the story has deeper layers that provoke thought and reflection. Alice’s plunge into the rabbit hole symbolizes a dive into deep sleep, where her dreams create a constantly shifting world with its own unique logic. Many critics interpret Alice's story as an analogy for the boundless possibilities that emerge when the rigid constraints of Victorian society are cast aside, allowing imagination and creativity to flourish.
“If Wonderland existed today, it would be the realm of John and Cynthia Hardy. Entering their world feels like stepping into another dimension where magic and curiosity thrive. John’s ideas are vast, boundless, and driven by a relentless passion for innovation, while Cynthia provides a grounding presence with her warmth, earthiness, and sense of home. Together, they create a balance, leading transformative initiatives with a shared commitment to the greater good. The couple’s success is rooted in the simple yet profound belief that anything is possible with an open mind. ”
Bambu Indah 2024
If Wonderland existed today, it would be the realm of John and Cynthia Hardy - the visionaries behind Bambu Indah, an ecologically mindful retreat in Bali. Entering their world feels like stepping into another dimension where magic and curiosity thrive. John’s ideas are vast, boundless, and driven by a relentless passion for innovation, while Cynthia provides a grounding presence with her warmth, earthiness, and sense of home. Together, they create a balance, leading transformative initiatives with a shared commitment to the greater good. The couple's success is rooted in the simple yet profound belief that anything is possible with an open mind.
We were lucky enough to visit Bambu Indah a few years ago, and more recently, we had the pleasure of reconnecting with John and Cynthia. Bambu Indah continues to be a true source of inspiration for what it means to be a Room + Wild property and was one of our very first partners.
In our conversation with the couple, we discussed their appreciation for landscape, the need for creativity and how even the smallest of shifts can lead to significant transformations.
Early Beginnings
John graduated from the Ontario College of Art & Design in Canada and traveled the world before settling in Bali. There, he started a jewelry business in 1975 that became an international success.
“In grade one, I struggled with simple tasks like drawing perfect circles. Later, I was diagnosed with a learning disability that wasn’t well understood at the time. I didn't learn to read or spell until grade six, but a few encouraging teachers saw potential in me beyond my struggles. Despite my difficulties, I learned to adapt. I couldn't become a fireman because I couldn't pass the tests, so I had to find alternative ways to succeed, like climbing trees to get into windows when doors weren't an option. I became good at finding creative solutions because I had no other choice." - John Hardy'
“I had to find alternative ways to succeed, like climbing trees to get into windows when doors weren’t an option. I became good at finding creative solutions because I had no other choice.”
Cynthia Hardy, with her strong aesthetic vision and business acumen, began making jewelry in her teens. After college, she moved to Bali, ran an import-export company, and later joined John to establish the John Hardy Jewelry label.
“I spent about a year going back and forth to flea markets, selling everything I could make in Bali, from mini skirts to incense holders, seashell earrings, silver jewelry, and textiles. In just one summer, I discovered that I could turn $3,000 into $12,000.” – Cynthia Hardy
Bambu Indah
In 2005, John and Cynthia installed eleven antique Javanese bridal homes on a jungle cliff top overlooking paddy fields, initially inviting friends to stay. This evolved into Bambu Indah, a pioneering eco-resort that has expanded to include innovative bamboo structures by the river. Building Bambu Indah was a labor of love for John and Cynthia Hardy, requiring immense dedication and perseverance. John's creative vision and Cynthia's eye for detail guided the process, but they faced numerous challenges, from sourcing sustainable materials to training local artisans in bamboo construction techniques. Each step was a learning experience that contributed to the unique nature of the resort.
“We decided to preserve these traditional homes by placing them on our land, honoring their historical and cultural significance.”
“During our travels, we encountered charming small houses in Java. Traditionally, it was uncommon for women to live alone due to concerns about social propriety and potential visits from men. To address this, men often had multiple wives, each of whom would have her own house to prevent conflicts. These houses were a significant part of women's lives. As Java modernized, people began replacing these traditional houses with concrete structures for their children, leaving the old homes abandoned. This trend mirrors a global shift where older styles are discarded for newer, more modern designs. I saw the demolition of centuries-old mud houses in favour of generic, modern bungalows, which was disheartening. We decided to preserve these traditional homes by placing them on our land, honoring their historical and cultural significance.” - John Hardy.
Entering Bambu Indah is like stepping into another world, where the architecture flows organically, the food is grown on-site, and the atmosphere is one of happiness and harmony. This boutique hotel encapsulates old-school Bali with its peaceful, laid-back vibe and close connection to nature. Tamarind, cinnamon, palm, and banyan trees cascade down steep jungle slopes to an enchanting river with natural swimming pools fed by waterfalls, creating a surreal and whimsical environment.
Return to the womb
John’s philosophy on architecture and design is deeply rooted in a reverence for nature and a rejection of the traditional, patriarchal approach to construction. He criticizes the "unit sellers" who prioritize profit over vision, shaping our built environment unimaginatively. Instead, he draws inspiration from ancient cultures and architecture that embrace natural, curved shapes reminiscent of the womb. This approach is evident in Bambu Indah, where the architecture mirrors a wild ecosystem in constant change.
“Deep within us there is a longing for spaces that resemble the womb’s comfort. Patriarchal societies tend to chop up the world into straight lines and boxes, selling these rigid structures that can ultimately harm the planet. In contrast, matriarchal architecture embraces more organic, rounded forms. If the Green School were just a row of rectangular boxes, it wouldn’t have the same impact. People are drawn to it because it resonates with a primal part of our brain. We’ve lived in caves and rounded spaces far longer than in concrete boxes. It’s time to reconnect with that sense of comfort.”
“You spent a long time happy in your mother's womb, which had a rounded shape. Now, you live in a box, and it's harder to find happiness there. Deep within us there is a longing for spaces that resemble the womb's comfort. Patriarchal societies tend to chop up the world into straight lines and boxes, selling these rigid structures that can ultimately harm the planet. In contrast, matriarchal architecture embraces more organic, rounded forms. If the Green School were just a row of rectangular boxes, it wouldn't have the same impact. People are drawn to it because it resonates with a primal part of our brain. We've lived in caves and rounded spaces far longer than in concrete boxes. It's time to reconnect with that sense of comfort." - John Hardy
Redefining bamboo architecture
The Hardy’s have redefined bamboo architecture, creating structures that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable and adaptable to contemporary needs, inspiring a new generation of architects and builders to explore bamboo's possibilities.
Elora Hardy, John's daughter, spearheaded the design team for parts of Bambu Indah, merging her artistic vision with sustainable design expertise. She skillfully combined traditional Balinese craftsmanship with modern engineering to amplify the natural strength and flexibility of bamboo. Techniques such as natural bamboo preservation, intricate joinery, and experimenting with curved forms resulted in resilient, earthquake-resistant structures. Elora went on to establish IBUKU, a design firm committed to pioneering bamboo architecture, transforming a basic material into an aspirational one.
In 2023/2024, Bambu Indah underwent significant renovations and expanded with new bamboo houses, continuing its legacy of innovation. The renovation focused on enhancing the existing structures' durability and comfort while maintaining their unique aesthetic and environmental harmony. Cynthia Hardy played a pivotal role in this transformation, designing each room herself to reflect her deep connection to nature and artistic vision. Every detail of the interiors was meticulously curated with hand-picked pieces from all over the world.
“Over the past 34 years, we’ve been collecting incredible eclectic pieces— carpets from Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, the Caucasus, Persia, Morocco, and Tibet. We have over 100 carpets, along with antique primitive teak furniture from Java. Essentially, I’m designing every room as if it were a place I’d want to live in myself.”
“I’m treating each room with the same care and attention as I would my own home. Over the past 34 years, we’ve been collecting incredible eclectic pieces— carpets from Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, the Caucasus, Persia, Morocco, and Tibet. We have over 100 carpets, along with antique primitive teak furniture from Java. We’re passionate about our collective eye and we’ve gathered 80 stunning, hand-carved cabinets, dozens of beautiful tables, benches, chairs, and tables made from thick slabs or carved wood. It’s been a labor of love to decorate these rooms with pieces we’ve curated over the years, and we feel so grateful to be able to place them in homes that will be cherished by guests. Essentially, I’m designing every room as if it were a place I'd want to live in myself.” - Cynthia Hardy
Wild Initiatives
The Hardy’s have continuously expanded their efforts to leave a lasting, positive impact on Bali through innovative sustainability initiatives. One of their latest projects involves the regeneration of rice farming on the island. By introducing methods like regenerative agriculture, they are helping to restore soil health and biodiversity, ensuring that traditional Balinese rice cultivation is both sustainable and ecologically beneficial. Another upcoming project that John is spearheading is a farm-stay experience across the river that invites visitors to connect with the land and learn about sustainable farming practices firsthand. Guests can experience life on a working farm while supporting the local community and contributing to the preservation of Bali's agricultural heritage. Additionally, John and Cynthia are exploring new avenues in carbon capture through the planting of Azolla, the smallest plant in the world with remarkable carbon-absorbing properties. Its rapid growth—it doubles in size every two days—makes it a powerful tool for addressing climate change.
As we conclude the interview, I find myself returning to one character from Alice in Wonderland time and again - Absolem. As Underland's oracle, he serves as the trusted advisor for other characters grappling with dilemmas or uncertainties. Absolem not only guards the rich history of Wonderland but also embodies the themes of change and transformation, particularly through his own metamorphosis into a butterfly. His guidance is crucial in helping Alice navigate her journey of personal evolution.
Sometimes, all it takes is the seed of an idea to flourish into a thriving ecosystem. This notion is beautifully captured in chaos theory, particularly through the concept of the butterfly effect, which suggests that a small change in one part of a complex system can lead to significant differences later on. Ultimately, our greatest allies are those who help us recognize and embrace even the smallest shifts, as these subtle transformations can create profound impacts over time.
The Hardy’s vision has always been about leaving a meaningful mark on Bali through education, design, and community engagement. This vibrant network of family-led initiatives, including Green School and Green Village, IBUKU, Chopt Value, Bamboo U, The Kul Kul Farm And Carina Hardy Jewelry reflects their commitment to creating a more socially responsible world. Their projects not only promote environmental innovation but also foster deeper connections with the land, culture, and people, ensuring a legacy of positive change for generations to come.
“I often give advice, and one thing I tell students is not to just focus on getting a job. While going to school is important, it’s crucial to study what you’re genuinely interested in. You’ll be around long after I am, facing challenges that my generation created. Instead of just looking for a job, strive to make the world a better place through your work”
“I often give advice, and one thing I tell students is not to just focus on getting a job. When I spoke to a group of graduating students from Green School in New York, I emphasized that rather than seeking traditional employment, they should follow their passions. While going to school is important, it's crucial to study what you're genuinely interested in. You'll be around long after I am, facing challenges that my generation created. Instead of just looking for a job, strive to make the world a better place through your work”. - John Hardy
Room + Wild is the world's first and leading collective and platform for landscape-enhanced accommodation, ecotourism, nature-based destinations, and sustainable luxury travel experiences. We consistently inspire, influence, and spread awareness through our tailored travel guides, curated media content/channels, brand activations, press trips as well as visual and narrative storytelling.