The Longhouse at Nuanu Creative City: Bali Based Cultural Center as Gateway to Learn About Indonesian Culture

Pia Diamandis -

The Longhouse is a two-floor cultural centre located in Nuanu Creative City Bali. As its name suggests, the space was designed after a Rumah Panjang (Long House), the traditional home of the Dayak people, who are natives of Borneo. With lengths exceeding 100 metres, these durable wooden houses were made for communal living for large groups, just like The Longhouse at Nuanu was made to be a community-oriented space. The Longhouse aims to be a cultural hub where creative thinkers, including architects and artists, can create curated experiences for those who visit them in Bali. 

The Longhouse facade at Nuanu Creative City. Image courtesy of @longhouse.nuanu/Instagram.

One of the main goals of these experiences is to share Indonesia’s diverse cultures. Indonesia has over 17,500 islands, of which Bali is a part. Yet, for many people, Bali will be the only part of Indonesia they will ever experience; hence, there is a need to create a space in Bali where Indonesia can be introduced. This is why The Longhouse at Nuanu Creative City is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of Reduced Inequalities and Quality Education. 

Participants of activities at The Longhouse, Nuanu Creative City. Image courtesy of @longhouse.nuanu/Instagram.

The first floor of The Longhouse is dedicated to education-based activities, such as workshops and seminars to share Indonesian cuisine, dance, architecture, music and more. Previously, the space hosted a traditional Balinese textile and weaving workshop with the local Pertenunan (Textile Weaving Craftsman’s Workshop) Setia Cap Cili. The first floor is also equipped with a small coffee shop dedicated to sharing more about Indonesian coffee. 

The Longhouse interior at Nuanu Creative City. Image courtesy of @longhouse.nuanu/Instagram.

Meanwhile, the second floor of The Longhouse serves as an activation/exhibition space. Here, the space showcases works by both local and international that reflect on the space’s mission to create rather than destroy. In July, they organized the solo show of Balinese artist Putu Wirantawan, whose work seamlessly blends traditional motifs with contemporary expressions.

Participants of workshops at The Longhouse, Nuanu Creative City. Image courtesy of @longhouse.nuanu/Instagram.

The Longhouse at Nuanu Creative City serves as a gateway for visitors to experience the rich cultural diversity of Indonesia, particularly in Bali, through community-driven initiatives. Inspired by the traditional Rumah Panjang of the Dayak people, the space fosters communal creativity and education. By hosting workshops, seminars, and exhibitions that celebrate Indonesian heritage—such as traditional weaving and Balinese art—the Longhouse promotes cultural awareness and learning. As a hub for creative thinkers, it offers a unique platform for cultural exchange in Bali.

Find out more about The Longhouse and other initiatives by Nuanu on their website www.nuanu.com or Instagram @nuanu_city and @longhouse.nuanu.