The Indonesian Ambassador joins representatives of the Australian Embassy to Laos and Khunta Residence for a photo at the official opening of the Rempah Indonesia Cafe and Restaurant in Vientiane on Saturday.

Khunta Residence: Preserving the beauty of traditional Lao houses

Khunta Residence is a traditional Lao house typical of the style favoured by lowland Lao tribe, known as the “Lao Loum”, and stands out as one of the most distinctive ethnic houses in Laos. It retains the authentic characteristics of this traditional architectural style, particularly in its use of old hardwood, known for its durability and beauty.

Traditional Lao houses at Khunta Residence.

Given Laos’ humid climate, these houses typically feature a raised structure with a cellar about 1.5-2 metres high, depending on the preference of the owner. This elevated design creates a spacious living area with a constant airflow, making it ideal for comfortable living.
To accommodate guests while respecting their privacy, these houses are designed to suit both individuals and families. The upper floor includes a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, dining room, and complete facilities, ensuring a convenient and comfortable stay. The layout promotes a sense of tranquility, offering residents peace of mind.
Many visitors have noted that constructing or acquiring such a house today is challenging due to several factors, including the scarcity of hardwood and the expertise required from skilled carpenters.
The owner of the Khunta Residence told the Vientiane Times that traditional houses like these are becoming increasingly rare in Laos, particularly in urban areas like Vientiane. While some houses in this style may still exist in rural parts of the country, they are seldom in good condition or well-maintained.
She added “The houses at Khunta Residence are built from old hardwood, both beautiful and durable, but such wood is now almost impossible to find.” She also mentioned the difficulty of finding experienced carpenters familiar with traditional Lao architecture. “Some of the hardwood we used comes from houses that are over 100 years old,” she said.
Khunta Residence comprises seven wooden houses and 12 apartments, offering accommodation for both local and international guests, especially during Visit Laos Year 2024 and beyond. The complex includes amenities such as a tennis court, badminton court, ping-pong table, and a beautiful swimming pool.
To further enhance the guest experience, the owner opens the Rempah Indonesia Café and Restaurant on Saturdays, offering a selection of coffee, sweets, and traditional Indonesian dishes.
The café’s opening ceremony was attended by Mrs Grata Endah Werdaningtyas, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Laos, along with representatives of the Australian Embassy and other invited guests.
Khunta Residence provides excellent service while preserving and promoting traditional Lao culture.
The village was established in 2009 by Mr Pascal Goyer, whose passion for traditional Lao houses led him to acquire and restore old wooden houses from rural areas. He reassembled them following the original Lao design, reflecting the architectural heritage of the Lao Loum tribe, the largest ethnic group in Laos, who are spread across the north to the south of the country.
However, the prevalence of modern houses has contributed to the gradual disappearance of this architectural style, eroding the cultural heritage associated with it. Recognising the significance and beauty of traditional Lao homes, the current owner of Khunta Residence undertook a comprehensive restoration in 2022. The goal was to preserve this unique Lao house for both locals and visitors to appreciate and learn about traditional Lao lifestyles.
The restoration project also enhanced the surrounding environment, creating lush green spaces to provide a serene retreat for guests. Khunta Residence offers an alternative to ordinary hotels and guesthouses, delivering an immersive cultural experience.
Situated in the heart of Vientiane, Khunta Residence aims to provide a unique holiday experience with a range of activities, ensuring that guests feel relaxed and rejuvenated.
With a focus on safety and comfort, the residence offers comprehensive security services, making it an ideal destination for families and individuals seeking a peaceful and secure stay.
 

ByTimes Reporters
 (Latest Update October 31, 2024)