We chat with Giovanna of Bungalow Living
We’ve raved about Bungalow Living Bali more than once in our neighbourhood guides but this lifestyle store and scrumptious eatery gets better and better. We just love the colours, fabulous eye candy and hand-made local cottage products that keep spilling out of it (and straight into our luggage!).
Housed in a charming old joglo along Jalan Pentai Berawa, Bungalow is quite clearly the (seventh) love child of this gorgeous husband and wife team – the first six are their dogs and cats! We chat with Giovanna about realising their dream.
Hey Giovanna, thanks for taking the time to chat with us! Yours was among Bali’s first blended lifestyle stores – why does the concept work so well there?
The concept works well for us as it combines both our talents and passion. We enjoy what we do – love what you do and it works.
Is Bungalow your dream come true?
Living in Bali with my husband and starting a business together was the dream. Bungalow Living has made the dream come true.
How has Canggu changed in the last two years?
We lived in Seminyak 12 years ago and we can see a very similar growth experience. Once a few shops open in an area, it’s very quick for others to follow.
What are some pearls you’ve learnt about doing business in Bali?
Find exceptional staff. Find loyal staff. Look after your staff. Be calm at all times.
Describe your typical day for us.
Mornings are spent with our four dogs and two cats, which we treasure. We always have breakfast at home together and discuss our day. BB King, our big poodle, comes on the bike ride with us to Bungalow everyday. After a morning meeting with our manager – COFFEE! We spend our mornings designing new homewares and cushion designs for Bungalow gallery. Then we check on our kitchen menu, make sure all is running well in the cafe and most importantly ensure our customers are happy!
How would you describe your style and your approach to curating Bungalow Living?
Our style is a combination of Indian and Balinese style and design with a Bohemian feel. Handmade products are a staple and supporting the local cottage industry. Our cafe and gallery are very relaxed but offer exceptional customer service.
What should everyone do when they visit Bali?
I think it depends on what they want from a holiday. If you want to relax, meditate, do yoga, or detox, Bali has a very high standard of spas and sanctuaries. If you want to meet people, have fun, dance, and listen to world-class music, the venues are here. If it’s a family getaway, there are so many family friendly places to visit. Shopping? There is everything from top designers to shopping on a budget at the markets. Bush walks, bird spotting, bike riding, rafting, rice fields, surfing and snorkelling. The restaurants cater for amazing inspirational restaurants to local warungs. Island hopping to Gilli, Nusa Lembongan, or Lombok. If you are looking for a spiritual retreat and want to visit temples, the island has them from the top to the bottom of the island. Bali caters to everyone. Personally, I love to travel out to the villages, see the beautiful rice fields and take photos of the local traditions.
Which restaurants never disappoint?
La Lucciola’s and Mama San.
What do locals know that we don’t?
This island is full of mystery and intrigue. The more I ask, the less I know.
Short answer questions:
Favourite piece in your store?
Industrial chest of drawers on wheels made from old carpenters wooden rulers.
Must try item on the menu?
Vegetarian Mezz Plate – falafels, quinoa salad, hummus, rocket and yoghurt tzatziki with grilled pita bread slices – all made fresh in our kitchen.
Where you go for a break from Bali?
India, Pushkar, Jaiphur, and Jodhpur.
Best coffee in Bali?
Bungalow coffee, our own blend of 100% Arabica from Brazil, Turaja, and Sumatra (No Robusta) that’s roasted and ground fresh. Our barista’s are trained to make a fabulous coffee!
Best sunset bar?
Beach house at Echo Beach. It feels like the old Bali – live music and always a beautiful sunset. We can also take our dogs for a walk on the beach after a cocktail.
Thanks Giovanna!
Visit this lovely lady and her exceptional staff at Bungalow Living Bali, Jalan Pantai Berawa 35A, Canggu 80361, Bali, Indonesia, p. +62 361 8446567. Open Mon-Sat 830am-6pm.
All images taken by Radhika Rao. After 15 years of running a successful photography business in Hong Kong, Radhika now calls Bali home. Contact: [email protected]