The "Loft"

What had started as a light-hearted discussion over dinner had quickly taken shape and turned into a plan. After seeing Eddie's house being built by hand, using local materials and the simplest of tools, plus the fact that hardly a nail had been used, we discussed the possibilities of utilising a bit of land behind the house to build another house.

From memory, the land measured about 11 or 12 meters by 6 meters tapering off at the back to 5 meters.

Subsequently, one night we sat down and started to draw some sketches.

The usual procedure in Western countries is that you go with these sketches to an architect who puts everything together into an approved design after which you have to get the approval from the local council etc. Here you just do things and no one checks anything. One year ago the land had been built up at the front as it slopes forward.

The land is right on the edge of a rice paddy. All of the rice paddies are terraced out of the side of the mountain. This location would offer great views. We opted for one large room with a separate bathroom with the doors on the side. A stream of water runs through a narrow open channel along the side of the house. Water flows everywhere and there is always the sound of running water flowing over the low “dykes” on the edges of the various rice paddies. The house is now finished and tastefully decorated. “The Loft” can be used by tourists or anyone who wants to book it. The views from the room and the front deck are breathtaking. A great place to unwind.

The Builder
A simple man wearing shorts and a T-shirt and walks around on slippers. He does the lot, digs by hand, carries rocks, cuts wood, makes concrete posts, mixes cement, lays bricks does electrical work and painting .When the basics are done he continues and makes doors and windows by hand and then goes on to make the beds and other furniture if required. Always with a smile on his face.

He does the lot and hires helpers to do the simple work, a true tradesman.

I will supply further information with the pictures.

If you can have a look for your self- for bookings contact addy via
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lucky-Da isy-Bamboo-Bar/384006424972760
or the same name via trip advisor