July 20, 2025

Future+ Bali: Growing a Regenerative Movement in Asia

What if design could do more than build—what if it could restore and even heal?

Future+ isn't just a workshop—it’s a community with intention to reimagine how we live, build, and belong through the lens of regeneration. Co-created by WildBound and Architecture 2030, it fosters personal and collective transformation by weaving together international expertise, indigenous wisdom, and deep nature connection—shaping a new paradigm for regeneration across Asia.

Future+ evolved over the past year through a trilogy of place-based programs across Asia. The trilogy began in the rural landscapes of Sichuan, China, in May 2024, where participants reconnected with the land and explored regeneration through the lens of rural revitalization. The second chapter took place in Kuching, Malaysia, in October 2024, shifting to an urban context that emphasized relationships and reciprocity, rooted in the spirit of gotong-royong (communal cooperation). Finally, the journey culminated in Bali, Indonesia, from May 19 to 23, 2025—hosted by Earth Company.

In Bali, Future+ welcomed 20 passionate participants representing diverse backgrounds—from architects and farmers to community leaders and sustainability advocates—coming from Indonesia, India, Philippines, Malaysia, Japan, China, Hungary, Colombia, and Italy, all working across the Asia region. This vibrant group created a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere, where cultures and perspectives intertwined beautifully.

Rooted in Bali’s unique cultural context, the program embraced the philosophy of tri hita karana—the Balinese concept of harmony between and among humans, nature, and the spiritual realm. Over five days, participants explored how regenerative design can align with this wisdom, blending hands-on activities, personal reflection and group discussions.

The program began at Mana Earthly Paradise in Ubud, where participants arrived just as the rain cleansed the air and spirits. The participants settled in and got to know each other before an engaging evening session with I Putu Wiraguna (Wira) from Five Pillar Experiences. Wira delivered a thoughtful introduction to Bali’s culture, the subak (traditional water irrigation) system, tri hita karana, and asta kosala kosali (a traditional Balinese architectural guideline), offering context for how architecture and place-based design align with Balinese philosophy.

The following day, participants embarked on an experiential walk in Ubud that invited them to see the busy tourist town through a regenerative lens. The day concluded with a permaculture tour and dinner at Begawan Biji, where conversations blossomed over locally inspired meals. Joining us for dinner were Maitri Fischer and Sean Nino, co-founders of Eco Mantra, who shared insights into their regenerative work driven by principles like local resource use and community-led architecture.

As the program shifted from the energy of Ubud to the calm of the village, participants had the chance to get their feet in the mud and hands dirty by working in the rice fields with Astungkara Way. This grounding experience reminded everyone of the interconnectedness of land, community, and culture—an essential step in embracing regenerative design.

The second half of the workshop unfolded in Kelecung Eco Village, where participants stayed in local homestays to immerse themselves in Balinese daily life. This phase emphasized deep listening—understanding the needs and aspirations of the community—and exploring how design can support rather than disrupt. Here, participants engaged in a design challenge, co-creating solutions that honored local wisdom, regenerative principles, and the unique stories of the village.

The journey concluded with a heartfelt closing session at Talasi Gadungan, where participants gathered in a circle to reflect, share stories, and express gratitude. Many shed tears of inspiration, vulnerability, self-discovery, connection, and appreciation. This final moment offered space to integrate the week's experiences and honor the personal and collective transformations that had taken root.

This isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of a growing movement. Participants now carry forward the seeds of regenerative design—ready to cultivate change in their own communities, professions, and daily lives. Future+ continues to nurture a network of regenerative leaders committed to transforming Asia and beyond, one place, one project, and one relationship at a time.

The Future+ Bali experience left a lasting impression on everyone involved.

As some participants beautifully shared:

It was a journey filled with great hope. This was my first opportunity to experience an international regenerative community, centered in Asia. In a sense, members who had previously lived in a way that was economically rational, efficient, and somewhat left-brained—even combative—came together to respect one another and spend time in a more right-brained way, fully engaging their five—and even sixth—senses. It was a wonderfully precious relationship and time. Perhaps the order of “with whom,” “where,” and “what” matters most. The significance of spending such an intense time with these members in Bali was truly immense.

Mitsuhiko Tatsuno

This experience raised bigger questions for me and my own relations to supporting human and more-than-human, fostering mindsets and relationships that our planet needs us to shift into, and social innovation. Can't wait to discover new work (and write more articles!) with these new regenerative and traditional cultures binoculars. I'm ever so grateful to the Future+ team for making my entry into this space possible, and even more so for creating a space for such a grounded, curious, generous, and critically-minded community of peers to grow and learn with

Lorrain Tan

This trip to Bali not only allowed me to witness the most outstanding projects and practitioners in my fields of focus—eco-agriculture, community development, and local culture—but also revealed their struggles and imperfections. This very recognition has genuinely inspired me. Simultaneously, I observed the deeply woven network of change-makers in Bali and formed new collaborative networks with fellow participants. They have expanded my worldview and bolstered my confidence for the future.

As part of the regenerative design community, I hope our collective can influence and inspire more people, deeply transforming the world around us to embark on a regenerative journey.

Wang Cihang

Thank you – Terima kasihMatur suksma!