Luxury Under the Stars: the Transcendent Power of Living Without Walls

In the lush jungles of Bali, where nature's orchestra plays a symphony of chirping birds and rustling leaves, a revolutionary concept was born. A concept that melds the opulence of modern living with the embrace of Mother Earth. Enter the exciting world of living without walls — a transcendent lifestyle that, for the last two decades, has redefined luxury living for eco-conscious urbanites across the globe.

In the heart of this movement stands Anneke van Waesberghe, a trailblazer whose journey began unexpectedly in 2005 when she purchased a verdant jungle plot in Bali's spiritual center Ubud, Indonesia. What was initially envisioned as a tranquil abode, surrounded by nature, took an unforeseen turn when a temporary tent she erected caught the eye of a renowned French architect, Jean Charles Moriniere. It wasn't long before the tent's unique blend of elegance and sustainability drew the attention of Hollywood's elite, including Uma Thurman.

Fuelled by an unwavering passion for sustainable living, Anneke founded Escape Nomade. Today, with 140+ completed projects in 45+ countries, Escape Nomade stands tall as the world's premier luxury Haute Couture tent design and manufacturing company.

But beyond the business success, it's the ethos of this venture that truly resonates. Living without walls isn't just about living in a luxurious tent; it's a philosophy that beckons us to connect deeper with our planet, to experience its beauty while respecting its fragility. It is about fostering an appreciation for the Earth, urging individuals to embrace a lifestyle that not only nurtures but also protects our blue planet.

At the heart of it all is Anneke, who herself exemplifies this philosophy in every aspect of her life. She transformed her passion for the environment and sustainable luxury into a thriving venture that has caught the attention of resorts and billionaires alike. But more than the global recognition and acclaim, it's the message she carries — of co-existing with nature in luxury and harmony — that will be her enduring legacy.

We invited Anneke to delve into her personal journey, reflecting on the transformative power of living without walls and the profound shifts in mindset it has fostered within her.

LZ: Throughout history, humanity has invested significant energy into building stronger walls as a means of security. Can one truly experience a sense of complete safety without the confines of concrete surroundings?

AW: Embracing the living without walls philosophy is an exciting journey that challenges our survival instincts and offers a fresh perspective on safety in our modern world.

Science has revealed the profound connection between our thoughts and experiences. It teaches us that when we deeply desire and believe in our own safety, we can manifest that safety in our lives. This realization has transformed my own perspective.

When I first moved into my tents, I constructed a bamboo wall for a sense of security. However, as time went on, I discovered that safety is not solely dependent on physical structures. It is a state of mind, a feeling that arises from within.

It was proven that one year after I moved in my tents they broke into my neighbor’s house only.

In my journey, I have cultivated inner resilience, compassion, and wisdom. This has allowed me to deepen my connection with nature and experience a sense of safety that transcends the boundaries of the physical world. It's important to note that the living without walls philosophy doesn't advocate for naivety or disregarding potential dangers. Instead, it encourages us to embrace holistic approaches to security.

LZ: In what ways has embracing a lifestyle that extends beyond conventional walls and fosters a deeper connection with the natural surroundings transformed your mental state? What kind of transformations could one anticipate when embracing such a way of life?

AW: Embracing such lifestyle has had a profoundly positive impact on my mental state. It has brought about transformative changes that have enriched my life in numerous ways.

First and foremost, this way of life has allowed me to experience a sense of freedom and liberation. Breaking free from the confines of concrete walls and immersing myself in nature has opened up a whole new world of possibilities. It has given me a heightened appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the natural environment, which in turn has brought me a deep sense of joy and fulfilment.

Living in harmony with nature has also had a transformative effect on my overall well-being. The peace and tranquillity that comes from being surrounded by the sights, sounds, and rhythms of the natural world has a soothing and rejuvenating effect on the mind. It has helped me reduce stress, find inner calm, and improve my mental clarity.

Furthermore, embracing this way of life has fostered a deeper connection with myself.

By stripping away the distractions of modern living, I have had the opportunity to reconnect with my true essence and purpose in life. It has also encouraged me to live more mindfully and be fully present in each moment.

Another significant transformation that one can anticipate is a stronger sense of environmental stewardship. By immersing oneself in nature and experiencing its beauty firsthand, a deep love and respect for the natural world naturally develop. This newfound appreciation can inspire a commitment to sustainable living and a desire to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.

In summary, embracing a lifestyle that extends beyond conventional walls has the power to transform one's mental state in remarkable ways. It brings freedom, joy, peace, and a sense of purpose. It deepens our connection with ourselves and cultivates a profound appreciation for the environment. Ultimately, it offers a path to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

So, as you envisage your next escape or a dream home, imagine a luxurious tent, gently swaying in the breeze, amidst nature's embrace. Envision a life unfettered by walls, where you are seamlessly woven into nature's intricate tapestry of sounds and rhythms. Such an existence, harmonizing with the earth's pulse, has the power to awaken a profound sense of vitality and a deeper connection to the world around you. And if you sense even a slightest doubt, remember the indomitable spirit of Anneke van Waesberghe, who turned a simple tent in a Balinese jungle into a global phenomenon.

You can find more inspiration about the concept from Haute Couture Architecture: The Art of Living Without Walls by Anneke van Waesberghe, published by an award-winning and internationally recognized publishing firm ORO Editions