Looking back on the early days of Hanchey Bamboo Resort, the creation of our Bamboo Lotus Shala marked a defining moment in our commitment to sustainability and community development. Constructed as a haven for meditation and yoga, the Lotus Shala was not only our first dedicated wellness space in Kampong Cham but also a bold statement on eco-friendly architecture.
A Pioneer in Sustainable Design
Our Lotus Shala is a true embodiment of sustainable design. By using locally sourced bamboo—a rapidly renewable material that reaches full maturity in just 3–5 years—our project minimized environmental impact compared to traditional hardwoods that require decades to grow. This fast regeneration cycle not only keeps the carbon footprint low but also helps preserve local forests and prevent soil erosion through bamboo’s extensive rhizome system.
Throughout the construction, we worked closely with the Mekong Bamboo company—recognized as one of the first bamboo construction teams in Cambodia—to employ local craftsmen. Supported by BSDA, this collaboration not only provided on-the-job training and boosted the local economy but also ensured that every beam and panel was crafted using local techniques. Our construction photos capture the meticulous craftsmanship and eco-friendly methods used on site.
Sustainable Bamboo Engineering
Advanced engineering research highlights that bamboo’s structural properties—its high tensile strength, flexibility, and durability—are comparable to those of more energy-intensive materials like steel and concrete, yet bamboo requires only a fraction of their embodied energy. Our design further embraces sustainable principles by incorporating natural ventilation and passive cooling. The open, airy spaces of the Lotus Hall create a seamless connection between the covered areas and the surrounding lotus ponds, reducing the need for mechanical air-conditioning and enhancing energy efficiency. Something that guests have always appreciated during our sunrise and sunset yoga classes.
The First Oasis for Yoga in Kampong Cham
While Hanchey Bamboo Resort was always about offering our guests a unique experience, the construction of the Lotus Shala marked a major moment in the region’s wellness landscape. It became the very first venue in Kampong Cham dedicated to yoga and meditation—a tranquil haven designed to nurture both body and soul. The hall’s design, inspired by the delicate lotus flower, symbolizes purity and rebirth, resonating deeply with the philosophies of mindfulness and inner peace.
The Lotus Shala has since evolved into a multi-functional space. Not only does it host regular yoga classes guests and the local community, but it also serves as the setting for immersive yoga retreats and workshops. Offering an outdoor, nature-infused space where movement, meditation, and fresh air come together.
Moreover, the hall has proven versatile for corporate meetings, staff trainings and even our staff retreats. Its open design fosters a collaborative environment that contrasts sharply with conventional office spaces, making it an inspiring venue for team-building activities and strategic workshops. Additionally, the space supports BSDA training sessions, empowering local communities through skill development and social enterprise initiatives. For occasions that call for a more traditional setup, we now also offer a conventional indoor meeting hall. This diverse usage underscores how the Lotus Shala offers a refreshing, multi-dimensional experience that extends well beyond traditional wellness or corporate settings.
Merging Tradition with Modernity
The vision behind the Bamboo Lotus Hall was brought to life in close collaboration with the talented Atelier Cole team and Elettra Melani, working closely with local craftsmen and women. The design gracefully marries traditional Cambodian aesthetics with contemporary eco-conscious construction techniques, ensuring that the space is not only visually stunning but also aligned with modern sustainability standards.
A Commitment to Community and the Environment
More than just a structure for meditation and yoga, the Lotus Hall embodies our dedication to social enterprise. Every step of its construction was a conscious decision to invest in the local community. The training programs initiated during the building process equipped local artisans with valuable skills, ensuring that sustainable practices continue to flourish long after the hall’s opening.
This blend of eco-sustainability and social empowerment set a benchmark in Kampong Cham, paving the way for a new era in eco-tourism and community development. It’s a legacy that continues to inspire—reminding us that true luxury lies in harmony with nature and in the upliftment of local communities.
