By HTE Founder, Erin Hughes.
When The Nisí Villas team first dreamt up Nisí Villas, it wasn’t just about building a boutique stay in Bali, it was about creating a place that felt like home, even in a faraway paradise.
“Nisí was born from a deep love of travel, design, and creating spaces that feel homely in locations we are in love with,” Nicole explains.
After years of travelling and falling for Bali’s many corners, Bingin was the place that truly captured their hearts. The result? Nisí Villas – a soulful sanctuary of Mediterranean-inspired design, natural textures, lush greenery, and thoughtful details that invite guests to slow down and simply be.
“On the first plane out after COVID, we discovered that our next project would be in Bingin, Bali — an exciting new collaboration between my husband, James Meredith, and me, together with Matt and Chani Thompson. Having worked with Matt on previous projects in Australia and knowing the depth of experience he brings from the Australian building scene, coming together again in a place that holds so much meaning for all of us was an easy decision,” says Nicole.
Building Nisí was no quick project. It was, as Nicole describes it, “a journey of passion, persistence, and purpose.” Today, 11 of the 13 villas are complete, the recovery spa is set to open soon, and the boutique hotel—Nisí Suites—is scheduled to open mid 2026. Every detail has been carefully considered. From the layout to the flow, textures, and tones, the design is about more than style—it’s about how a guest feels the moment they walk in.
“Every detail – from the textures and tones to the layout and design flow – was carefully considered with the guest in mind: who were they, how would they feel, move, and unwind in the space?”
The build itself was no easy feat. Working with local Balinese artisans and builders, the team combined their Australian development background with the island’s craftsmanship to bring their vision to life. It demanded patience, presence, and daily commitment.
From the moment guests step through the gate, Nicole wants them to feel at ease. “As though they’ve arrived home, only this time in a warmer, tropical setting, free from the pressures and pace of daily life.”
That sense of comfort flows through every touchpoint – wellness treatments, yoga, Pilates, breathwork, in-villa dining, and butler service designed to make daily life seamless. With Nisí Recovery launching soon, even deeper wellbeing experiences will be at guests’ fingertips.
But what really sets Nisí apart is the people. “We’re a tight-knit team, like family, all driven by the same purpose: to deliver an exceptional level of care at every touchpoint of the guest journey.”
Nisí reflects the character of Bingin; laidback, soulful, a little bit magical.
“Bingin moves at its own pace. There’s a beautiful, intentional slowness here… it’s not just the view or the waves, it’s the sense of community, the smiles from strangers. You really have to experience it to know.”
And if you ask Nicole for her top things to do, she smiles. “Surf with the family at Padang Padang, indulge in a blissful in-villa massage, savor Bingin’s growing culinary scene, or immerse yourself in the neighborhood’s thriving wellness culture,” she says.
“I’d suggest joining the vibrant health and wellness scene at Bambu Gym or Fondue Pilates, or unwinding at Santai Recovery — each offering a unique way to recharge and reconnect during your stay.
For dining, a reservation at Yuki in Bingin is always at the top of my list.”
Nisí is for anyone who wants to feel at home in paradise — families, groups of friends, couples, or solo travellers seeking ease and comfort. The team prides itself on delivering highly personalised service, ensuring every stay is seamless and memorable.
As Nicole says, “We’re not just here to offer you a place to stay, we’re here to create a space you won’t want to, or in fact, don’t need to leave.”
Nisí Villas is more than a holiday. It’s connection, ease, and the kind of beauty that lingers long after you’ve checked out.
