The Bali House

A retreat to Bali

After a trip to Bali in 1998, Alison and Don Getz returned to Wilmington with many things – a love for the distinctive architecture, an appreciation of the Indonesian island’s complex religious and cultural atmosphere, and a vast collection of indigenous art.

Visiting the streets of Ubud, an artists village, they purchased various objects d’art such as vibrant portraits of birds sitting on tropical trees – Alison Getz’s favorite – and several bronze Buddha sculptures. Lacking space for their beloved artwork and missing the Southeast Asian environment, in 2001, they decided to replicate Bali living just steps from their front door. The result is the Bali House (www.thebalihouse.weebly.com), a one-bedroom dwelling, surrounded by a lush garden. Although originally intended for a personal getaway, the couple soon realized the joys of sharing their small piece of paradise and made the Bali House available for rent.

In addition to the art, tropical evergreens, and Japanese maples, the property includes a koi pond and – to fully enjoy the experience – an outdoor living area. Inside, the 600-square-foot space features a small stovetop, steam shower, and home theater system.

The house replicates the structure of many Balinese homes, although alternative materials were used to accommodate local weather tendencies. Features such as the outdoor living area and water-level porch reflect the focus in Bali on an indoor-outdoor lifestyle.

Screen doors look out over a pond containing koi fish, bass, and grass carp, with tall palm trees overhanging the water. The owners built a foliage-covered privacy wall surrounding the home so guests could feel enveloped by a jungle atmosphere.

The property also is dotted with pieces picked up during the Getzes’ travels, including a Buddha head sculpture from Bangkok and an armless statue, a reproduction of a piece found in a palace in Angkor Thom and bought during a mission trip in Cambodia.

The tropical feel carries over inside the home, which features hand-cut bamboo on the ceiling and bamboo-style furniture pieces. Although most of the artwork at the house comes from abroad, the majority of the furniture was purchased in High Point.

“They just come, and it clears their brain,” Alison Getz says of her guests.

Next to Alison Getz’s favorite painting sits a bronze-colored Thai puppet that the couple purchased in Bangkok. Other decorations come from gifts the Getzes receive from guests, such as a bamboo-style candleholder and frog ornaments that sit on the living room table.

To view more of photographer Bryce Lafoon's work, go to Www.brycelafoonphotography.com.