The Abode opened in 2021 with the aim of developing and pioneering luxury glamping in Brunei, an untapped niche at the time. The resort’s concept combines the adventure of camping with the comfort of a high-end retreat, offering villa-style tents that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings.

Each of the ten villas features elegant, custom-made furniture crafted from locally sourced natural materials. Reflecting careful material selection and close collaboration with local designers and contractors, the architectural design showcases a strong commitment to environmental sensitivity. As Richard Ting, General Manager of The Abode Resort & Spa, puts it: “We want to be part of nature, but not disturb it.”

An off-grid oasis: illuminating sustainability in a resource-rich nation

Perhaps the most distinctive feature of The Abode is its commitment to operating entirely on off-grid solar power. This achievement is particularly notable in resource-rich Brunei, where electricity and gas are so affordable that boiling a litre of water may cost less than buying it bottled. The decision to go off-grid was shaped both by the high cost of connecting to the national grid (due to the resort’s remote location), and by a firm intention to be a true eco-resort. 

The Abode runs on 816 solar panels, generating approximately 329 kW, supported by 280 gel batteries for night-time energy storage. This energy system not only powers the entire property but also serves as an educational tool. A dedicated solar gallery offers guided tours for guests and school groups, thereby raising awareness of renewable energy and sustainable living. While battery degradation remains a challenge requiring regular reinvestment, The Abode continues to champion clean energy. 

An immersive escape : embracing a screen-free wilderness

The resort offers a variety of relaxing, non-intensive activities designed to enable guests to reconnect with nature. These include sunset and firefly cruises on the Labu River, bonfires, and guided nature trails. Defining aspects of the experience include the intentional absence of televisions in all villas and limited Wi-Fi access. 

“We encourage guests to spend time outdoors, where they can observe nature, sit quietly, or chat and play with family and friends,” says Richard Ting. “Technology is a useful tool, but not something to which we should devote all our time.” 

Sustainable practices from construction to cuisine

Sustainability at The Abode extends well beyond energy generation, influencing every aspect of operations. During construction, the resort repurposed 400 metric tonnes of steel and concrete from the nearby Temburong Bridge project, breathing new life into discarded materials and significantly reducing waste. 

The Abode also enforces a strict no-single-use plastic policy, providing glass bottles for drinking water and refill stations throughout the site. Waste separation and recycling are encouraged, and even insect repellents are made from natural ingredients. To reduce vehicle emissions within the forest area, the resort offers EV charging stations, supporting guest use of electric vehicles.