THE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY DESIGN CONCEPT

BALI, THE ISLAND OF THE GODS

Bali is an autonomous region of Indonesia with a very distinct independent character, stemming from its religious, traditional, cultural, and historical background; it is in fact in so many aspects different to the rest of Indonesia.

For many, Bali was and still is an exotic island for holidays. The changes that are taking place are putting Bali on an entirely different level, as our world is becoming more accessible due to increased air traffic and leisure time as well as increased wealth, Bali is becoming known for what is was for the few who knew; ‘the Island' to retire to and relax. When the ‘modern' world has become too much, or the time has arrived to enjoy what has been achieved and retreat to a place of peace and contemplation.

Although Bali is no longer a ‘back-water' without modern comforts and communication, luxury goods are no longer items that must be imported, these items have become available in the fast developing shopping malls around the Kuta and Denpasar areas and in specialized shops. Bali has become an Island that is aware of and services, the requirements of high expectations. At the same time the Balinese are adamant in retaining their traditions, culture, religion and their way of life, they are a people that have over the past centuries always managed to adjust and accommodate to new ideas. This applies to music and art, as well as modern gadgets, roads, housing, farming, tourism, whatever life has presented them with, they are willing to incorporate or accommodate without losing themselves or their specific identity.

The Balinese believe that Bali is the Island of the Gods and they never forget to honor them and to respect their traditions and their culture. Bali is a Hindu island with many elements of Buddhism mingled into their beliefs, traditions, and religious ceremonies. Different religions, cultures and beliefs are required to respect and honor the ‘Balinese Way of Life', as the Balinese respect and honor the differences of the others, this results in a colorful and easy going approach to life in general.