Reinventing Farm Living

Striking a balance between nature and modern interventions, Rumah Tebing harvests the best of its surroundings in response to the tropical climate, geographical context and the natural code of aesthetics.

- Martin Teo

Silenced from any nuances from the concrete jungle, the drive here – about an hour’s away from Kuala Lumpur city centre – is an absolute change of scenery. Within 800m away from the destination, the vibe changes - only stillness broken by the sounds of birds chirping and leaves rustling. And almost towards the end of the road, the unmistakable sight of the villa within the premise of Tanah Larwina becomes evident.

Perched in a 3-acre agricultural land in Hulu Langat countryside, Tanah Larwina boasts an expanse of naturally manicured land for farm animals and fruiting trees such as mangosteen and kedondong. Goats, geese, chickens and horses roam freely. Large boulders pepper the undulating green landscape, a geological feature harking back to a time when a larger river system may have flowed through the site.

Today, the tributary remnants that are the Sungai Lui and Sungai Larwin streams bifurcate the grounds from the forested foothills a stone’s throw away. The smaller Larwina, from which the retreat takes its moniker, isn’t only the main attraction, but also hosts the unique on-site accommodate that is known as Rumah Tebing or the Riverbank House.

CHARMED BY NATURE 

As I sit by the lanai of Rumah Tebing, overlooking the perpetual stream of gushing water – as clear as crystal – it strikes me in an instance; this is not an eco-retreat as how many would perceived it to be. Tanah Larwina is a place where the elements of nature are at their best. It is a place where people create that special connection with the surroundings, whether it is the animals, water, trees, mossy rocks or the fresh cool air. It is an outstanding funky-looking house, in absolutely contrasting fashion that coexist harmoniously in its own context.