Our Story
Bahu Design Studio takes its name from the Sanskrit word Bahu, meaning "abundance" "muchness," or "multitude" a reflection of our belief in the richness that emerges when diverse ideas, materials and practices come together.
We design spaces that draw strength from nature’s abundance while giving back in equal measure, creating environments that nurture the well-being of their inhabitants and actively restore and honour the land. Through biophilic design, we seek to foster deep connections between people and the natural world, creating spaces that breathe with life and evolve alongside their surroundings.
Based on unceded Bundjalung country in Byron Bay, traditionally known as Cavanbah, meaning "meeting place," we are inspired by the deep relationships between land, sea, sky and people. This land, with its expansive beaches and sheltered coves, has long served as a place of gathering for the Arakwal people and the wider Bundjalung Nation.
At Bahu, we draw from these cultural and ecological tapestries to create spaces that honour the wisdom of place, weaving together traditional knowledge, contemporary design and the natural systems that sustain us all. By embracing biophilic design, working with natural materials and embedding sustainability into every stage of the process, we aim to create more than buildings — we create living systems that invite connection, foster belonging and allow both communities and nature to thrive in harmony.
Our work is guided by the spirit of the meeting place, where land, culture, people and ideas come together, and through this, we design spaces that enrich life, honour country and cultivate abundance for future generations.
THE DIRECTOR
Vanessa Girling
Bachelor of Architectural Design
Bachelor of Arts (Hon) Biophilic Design (Exchange Singapore)
Diploma Building Design
Diploma of Commercial Arts (Interior Decoration and Design)
I’m Vanessa Girling, and as the director of Bahu Design Studio, I’m deeply devoted to creating sustainable spaces that nurture our collective well-being and foster genuine connections with the environment. As a surfer, my connection to nature runs deep, and it profoundly inspires my designs. With over 12 years of industry experience spanning Far North Queensland, Melbourne, and for the last 6 years the beautiful Northern Rivers of New South Wales, I’ve dedicated my career to exploring how our built environments can foster community and enhance collective well-being.
My journey has led me to embrace vernacular construction and natural building techniques, which I believe are essential for creating environments that resonate with their surroundings. I have worked in various roles from leading design firms, refining my skills in design development, project management and sustainable practices.
Beyond design, I’m also a certified meditation teacher and am deeply committed to promoting mental health and self-awareness in all aspects of my work. Through Bahu Design Studio, I strive to inspire positive change in the industry, crafting harmonious spaces where people and nature can thrive together.
Join the team
Join the team at Bahu Design Studio and be part of a passionate group dedicated to creating sustainable, innovative spaces that connect people with nature. If you’re driven by eco-friendly design, mindful practices, and a commitment to well-being, we’d love to hear from you. Let’s build a better future together.