OUR STORY

Jeff and Kenn

Our nomadic hearts first discovered the magic of Baler in 2013, and we were instantly captivated. Year after year, this coastal paradise became our sanctuary, culminating in a beachfront wedding that sealed our love for the place.

In 2018, we took our commitment to Baler a step further by purchasing the land that would become Duon Baler.

Now, we proudly call both the majestic mountains of British Columbia and the sun-kissed shores of Baler home. We're thrilled to invite you to experience this extraordinary destination and share in our love for this beautiful corner of the world.

Welcome to Duon Baler!

Jeff and Kenn

WHAT'S IN A NAME?...

Duon Baler

Duon translates to English as "there"

After one of our first visits to Baler, while driving back to Manila we got a little lost. Every time we asked for directions the locals would point with their mouths and simply say "Duon," which could mean, just there, a few minutes away or "Duon" which could be hours down the road.

When discussing what to name our place we jokingly came up with Duon, and it stuck.

"Where are you staying?" "Duon"

-Filipinos may point to objects by puckering their lips and moving their mouths in the direction they are pointing to.-

Why we chose sustainable building materials

The construction industry plays a significant role in shaping our environment, and unfortunately, its traditional practices often leave a hefty footprint. However, a shift towards sustainable building materials offers a promising path towards a healthier planet and more responsible building practices.

Lowering the Carbon Footprint: One of the primary concerns with conventional building materials is their high embodied carbon. The CO2 emitted throughout their life-cycle, from extraction and processing to transportation and construction is detrimental to our environment.

Our decision to build with locally sourced materials like Nipa and bamboo significantly reduces this burden. Nipa, is readily available here in Baler and requires minimal processing and transportation. Our Bamboo we sourced from San Luis, Baler's neighbouring town just 7km away. Bamboo's rapid growth rate and efficient carbon sequestration make it a natural champion for sustainability.

Empowering Local Communities: Beyond environmental benefits, promoting local materials like Nipa and bamboo empowers communities by creating jobs, supporting traditional skills, and stimulating local economies. Utilizing these readily available resources reduces dependence on imported materials and fosters self-reliance within communities. Additionally, the knowledge and expertise involved in harvesting and preparing these materials are often passed down through generations, preserving cultural heritage and traditions.

Nipa: Nature's Roof Covering: With its lightweight, thatched structure, Nipa roofing provides excellent thermal insulation, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This inherent property translates to reduced energy consumption for cooling and heating, further contributing to the overall sustainability of a building. Its natural water-repellent properties make it suitable for various climates, and its biodegradability minimizes waste concerns.

Bamboo: Strength and Versatility Beyond Imagination: Bamboo's incredible strength-to-weight ratio makes it a viable alternative to traditional construction materials like wood and steel. It can be used for structural elements, walls, flooring, and even furniture, showcasing its remarkable versatility. Additionally, bamboo's natural beauty adds a unique aesthetic touch to any structure. With proper treatment, bamboo can be highly durable, resisting pests and weathering challenges.

Building a Sustainable Future: Embracing sustainable building materials like Nipa and bamboo is a conscious choice towards a healthier planet and thriving communities. These locally sourced resources offer numerous advantages – reducing environmental impact, lowering carbon footprint, empowering local communities, and providing durable, versatile building options. As we move towards a more sustainable future, incorporating these natural wonders into our construction practices is not just a possibility, but a necessity. By recognizing their potential and supporting their responsible use, we can build structures that are not only beautiful and functional but also leave a positive mark on our environment and communities.

Our mission

Our foundation is built on our values, which guide our actions. We conduct our business in a socially responsible and ethical manner. We respect the law, support human rights, protect the environment and work with the local community of Baler.

Our vision

We envision a world where you don’t have to sacrifice convenience, comfort or the planet’s health, to enjoy an intimate and unforgettable experience.