Family Time In Canggu

A Bali villa is a great option for tuning out of all things work or school and spending quality time with family or friends especially when you don't see them as much as you'd like to! This impressive new villa was designed with large family gatherings in mind and has plenty of space to unwind in.

Umbala The House is owned by Singapore expats FELICITY and MARK SAINSBURY, and has been beautifully styled by E&A Interiors. It's a gorgeous villa in Canggu that can accommodate up to two larger families, or three families of four. We chatted with Felicity and Mark about the process of buying land in Bali and their building and interior design decisions. They also gave us their scoop on things to do in the area.

What made you start looking at Bali as a potential place to build a villa?

We're a family of five with three young children Harry, Finn and Willow. Being expats for the past six years in Singapore, and with family located in different countries, we dreamt of providing a home that was not only for us, but also a place to share with close friends and family. We wanted a location that was accessible and where we could spend time all year round. Most importantly, we wanted it to create memories for years to come, as a home away from home.

Felicity: Mark and are from South Africa and Australia respectively. There was a strong desire to create a balance between living in Singapore and having access to some elements of our home countries that we really miss, such as the beach, the outdoors and authentic holiday activities for the children.

Mark: Felicity and had been to Bali many times before, but it was during our first family holiday there in March 2019 when we fell in love with all the elements the island had to offer, and the people. We knew this was the place we wanted to realise our dream, as our journey of memories had already begun.

Which areas did you consider, and what made you decide on Canggu?