- Interior
When Debora and Bradley T. Gardner first set their feet on the lush soil of Bali, they were faced with a heartbreaking story: the Bali starling, a bird of almost mythical status, was balancing on the brink of extinction. But amid this gloom, they found hope. In Payangan, just north of Ubud, they discovered a pristine piece of land that would inspire them on an extraordinary journey of connection, protection and rebirth.
In 2002, they established the Begawan Giri Estate on this site, a haven that was awarded ‘The Best of the Best’ by Condé Nast Traveler. The estate became a symbol of luxury and serenity, but for the Gardners, this success was only a starting point. They felt a deeper desire to give back to the nature and community that had touched them so much. By founding the Begawan Initiative, they committed to the rebirth of the Bali starling and the regeneration of Bali's ecosystems.
Their work grew into a mission of broad impact. Besides conservation, the programme included regenerative agriculture, cultural heritage conservation and free education for local people. The Begawan initiative became a living proof of how care for nature can go hand in hand with social engagement, while the island and its inhabitants recovered from damage, both ecological and cultural. 
At Biji, past and present come together in a celebration of sustainability, cultural preservation and culinary innovation
Twenty years later, with a thriving philanthropic legacy, the Gardners decided to add a new dimension to their vision. Inspired by the documentary Kiss the Ground, they chose a unique piece of land near their original estate, which had been degraded by chemical agriculture. With dedication, they transformed it into fertile, carbon-rich soil that today produces Mansur Heritage Rice. This initiative embodies regenerative agriculture at its best, honouring Bali's nature and culture. 
This journey culminated in the opening of Biji, a restaurant located in the middle of the rice fields. Designed by Balinese architect Conchita Blanco in traditional ‘Wantilan’ style, the space offers a harmonious interplay between modernity and heritage.The menu, created by chef Andrew Fahludza, embraces Bali's sacred rice culture and offers a pan-Asian culinary experience.Each dish tells a story, rooted in tradition but looking towards a sustainable future.
At Biji, past and present come together in a celebration of sustainability, cultural preservation and culinary innovation.It is more than a restaurant; it is a monument to the Gardners' journey from luxury to responsibility.Every detail, from the reborn rice fields to the refined dishes, reflects their belief that the earth, community and culture are mutually dependent. With Biji and their ongoing conservation efforts, Debora and Bradley Gardner prove that true luxury lies in cherishing what is valuable: nature, people and the stories that connect us.
Founders Debora & Bradley T. Gardner
Architecture and Interior Design Conchita Blanco (Blancostudio)
Photography by Iker Zuniga
Text by Elke Aerts