Hardin Bed & Breakfast, a stunning transformation of a former kiln-drying warehouse, is redefining the staycation experience in Pampanga. Nestled in Sta. Ines, Betis, Guagua, this chic bed and breakfast by owner Leslie Bituin-Mendiola offers a serene escape that beautifully marries history with modern aesthetics.
Leslie's vision for Hardin goes beyond providing a place to stay; it's about creating an experience rooted in sustainability and creativity. "My aim is to be able to reuse or repurpose a lot of the materials that we readily have," she shares. This commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the property, where many materials have been thoughtfully repurposed from the original warehouse.
A Touch of History
Hardin Bed & Breakfast is a space that tells a story, as evident in the remnants of the original kiln-drying warehouse that have been preserved, including a brick wall that was once part of the furnace. Leslie notes, "Some parts of the old structure and equipment, like the forklift, were kept to encapsulate the history." This blend of old and new creates a charming atmosphere that resonates with guests looking for a unique getaway.
01 - Salma Wood Decor Object,
02 - Maquiling Trunk Fruit Bowl,
03 - Opera Dome Hanging Pendant Lamp,
04 - Emerald Green Mirrorized Tempered Glass Bonzai Tree,
05 - Tree Trunk Weathered Bronze Tall Metal Side Table,
07 - Andi Chair,
07 - Barbados Glazed Ceramic Plant Pot,
08 - Gold Green Rice Beads Palm Tree 36cm,
09 - Canoe Bowl in Gray Lime Finish.
10 - Woven Placemat With White Center Detail,
11 - Colorful Plate Charger,
12 - Barcelona Rope Accent Chair,
13 - Bess Natural Wood Bench,
14 - Bakawan Coffee Table,
15 - Moretti Floor Lamp Shade,
16 - Bilao Chair,
17 - Tree Trunk Weathered Bronze Tall Metal Side Table,
18 - Toledo Outdoor Chair,
19 - Duyan Lounge Chair,
20 - Siberia Glazed Ceramic Plant Pot.
"These green panels were the original gates that we used for the kiln-drying chambers, we decided to repurpose them because of the limited materials we had available during the pandemic," Lesie shared, highlighting the resourcefulness that defines the establishment.
Designed for intimate gatherings, accommodating up to 50 guests for events such as weddings and birthdays, Hardin Bed & Breakfast’s outdoor dining area, with its view of the fish pond and garden, provides a picturesque setting for celebrations. The whole place incorporates design elements that give it a unique character that reflects the family's furniture-making heritage.
Blending Comfort with Style
Hardin Bed and Breakfast features two distinct villas, each designed with unique touches that highlight local artistry and sustainable practices. The Palm Villa, a spacious 60 square meter loft-type room, boasts its dipping pool and can accommodate up to four guests. The sofa fabric, crafted from scrap materials, exemplifies the innovative spirit of the space, while the repurposed flooring from an old warehouse adds a touch of history to the modern design.
01 - Square Sofa,
02 - Black Alien Bees Remix Pillow Cover,
03 - Feldgrau Velvet Pillow Case,
04 - Pugad Table Lamp,
05 - Kweba Feature Rattan Wall Mirror,
06 - Dare Reed Diffuser Mocha-Grey,
07 - Uratex Premium Touch Sublime Mattress 11,
08 - Reef Wall Mirror,
09 - Grace Dark Walnut Box Wooden Bed Frame,
10 - Heritage Sideboard Buffet Cabinet,
11 - Grace Theater L Shape Living Room Sofa,
12 - Grace Modern Coffee Table,
13 - Seletti Hybrid Aglaura Glass (Set of 3).
The loft area, furnished with two queen-sized beds, continues the theme of sustainability with flooring sourced from the warehouse's former office. A cherished heirloom dresser from Lesie's mother-in-law adds a personal touch, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The windows, salvaged from the 1990s factory, further enhance the villa's character, blending nostalgia with contemporary comfort.
Nature-inspired Serenity
The Garden Villa offers a tranquil escape, featuring an outdoor pool and a view deck, all within a 40 square meter loft-type room. Originally a drying chamber, the space has been transformed with care, incorporating repurposed elements such as the staircase and bathroom door. The design reflects Lesie's love for nature, with a mural of an anahaw plant created by an in-house artist, bringing the outdoors inside.
01 - Candia Bedside Table Lamp Shade,
02 - Frosted Squares Medium Pillowcase,
03 - Sage Boudoir Pillowcase,
04 - Study No. 02, India Ink on Abaca Paper,
05 - Round Woven Tray with Capiz Detail and Wood Handle,
06 - Rhoda 3 Seater Living Room Sofa,
07 - Pugad Floor Lamp,
08 - Small Handwoven Textile Ottoman Chair with Storage II,
09 - Seletti Perinzia Hybrid Rug,
10 - Trunk Side Table.
The bathroom, designed with a skylight and natural materials, creates a serene retreat where guests can unwind amidst greenery and stone accents. This harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor elements enhances the overall experience, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The villas’ decor features a mix of antique furniture from Leslie's legendary mother, Myrna Bituin, alongside beautifully crafted pieces from their family business. The aesthetic is refined and inviting, with shades of black, green, and gray adding a touch of sophistication to the industrial backdrop.
Looking ahead, Leslie and her family plan to expand Hardin Bed & Breakfast by constructing additional villas and enhancing the garden's foliage. "We want to create more spaces for guests to enjoy and connect with nature," she shares. This forward-thinking approach, combined with a deep respect for the past, positions Hardin Bed & Breakfast as a must-visit destination in Pampanga.
In a world where travel often feels rushed and impersonal, Hardin Bed & Breakfast stands out as a haven of tranquility and charm. With its rich history, sustainable practices, and inviting atmosphere, it offers a refreshing escape for anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.
