Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), has announced the launch of its seventh subdivision, HBA Resort. The new design division will specialise in creating bespoke, luxury resort properties globally with its flagship office based out of Bali, Indonesia, a hub for Southeast Asia’s flourishing resort community. The design team will draw inspiration from Bali’s enchanting locale working with local artisans and craftsman for indigenous and authentic design projects to create the world’s most treasured resorts.

“For more than 50 years, HBA has been the creative force behind some of the world’s most exceptional resorts within the most exclusive destinations. With more owners and operators seeking out these types of bespoke properties, we responded to the overwhelming demand and reflected the need for increased specialisation in hospitality design by delivering individualised, tailored design for each resort,” said HBA Co-CEO Ian Carr. “Our unrivalled capability to offer our clients a ‘one-stop-shop’ for all their design needs from a resort capital such as Bali has HBA Resort poised to be the leader in its industry and we look forward to introducing yet another thriving division from the HBA family.”

HBA’s portfolio already includes an award-winning selection of resort properties, including the Four Seasons Seychelles, Park Hyatt Maldives, Jumeirah Maldives and Eagle Island Botswana. Meanwhile, HBA Resort has begun work on Anzara Nusa Lembongan in Bali, Intercontinental Hotel Bali and New World Grand Bali Resort.

The new division will be spearheaded by HBA Principal David Haughton, who has resided and designed in Bali for the past 25 years. Haughton is responsible for leading both HBA Resort offices in Indonesia in Bali and Jakarta. “Resort tourism has grown organically over the past 30 years to become more bespoke and personalised for the guest over time. Gone are the days of generic hotels made to fit all guests – today, we create narrative-driven hotels that speak to each hotel’s distinct and discerning visitor by creating an experience through tailor-made design,” said Haughton.

“As an artist myself, I have always taken a very hands-on approach to my designs and in working with our clients, I believe it’s what helps us design to each region and market, and create an imaginative new product each time.”

HBA Resort stands apart for its ability to deliver full service resort projects with a hands-on approach – from boutique to comprehensive, large scale mixed-use developments with complete turn-key services backed by 51 years of HBA’s expertise. The new office offers a cohesive service from feasibility master planning packages through room and villa design, hospitality and procurement disciplines.

Located in the design base of Bali, surrounded and inspired by the pure artisanal spirit of tropical island life, the design team has direct and exclusive access to the region’s talented artisans specialising in metalwork, stonework, carving and other lost arts that are only found in this region.

HBA Resort’s Bali office utilises a holistic combination of interior design, architecture, landscape, lighting and art – drawing upon the exploration and skills of HBA’s worldwide network of design studios. The team’s environment is their ethos: whether in reference to an island, desert, volcanic mountain or tropical jungle setting, Bali’s enchantment inspires a unique approach to luxury hospitality.