On the Indonesian island of Sumba, a new jewel has just come into being: the Hotel Cap Karoso. An authentic, eco-friendly retreat built on the beach of Karoso, in the southwest of Sumba, that pearl of Indonesia still untouched by mass tourism. The hotel’s French owners, Fabrice and Evguenia Ivara, wanted to create a resort in line with the values of sustainability, authenticity and community, in close collaboration with local communities. <\/p>\n
Sumba, a wild and unspoilt island
\nSumba is a discreet island located an hour’s flight east of Bali, well known to surfers, but sheltered from mass tourism. The island has preserved its culture and way of life, as well as its animist beliefs. Today, it is considered one of the world’s last megalithic cultures. Nature is also incredibly well preserved, with deserted beaches, lagoons, savannah and wooded valleys inhabited by endemic species. Sumba is a true natural gem, combining all the attractions of a pristine paradise. <\/p>\n
Architecture combining authenticity and modernity
\nFor this 47-room hotel and 20-villa project, the owners called on British architect Gary Fell and his firm GFAB Architects. The aim was to design a project in communion with its environment, in a permanent indoor\/outdoor spirit. The interiors were designed by Jakarta-based Bitte Design Studio. The French art of living was infused by Fabrice and Evguenia Ivara, who added a touch of chic to these serene spaces, where the Sumbanese aesthetic invites itself in for a perfect blend of cultures. <\/p>\n\n\t\t