“We take a seed-to-table approach at Farmhouse Resort & Spa. Our dishes utilise organic products that we grow and harvest from our 150 ha campus.” Hannes Schmid, the founder of Farmhouse Resort & Spa highlighted one of the resort sustainability initiatives during an exclusive interview with BusinessToday.
Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Cambodia, Farmhouse Resort & Spa stands out as a beacon of luxury and sustainability in the hospitality industry. Located just 90 minutes away from the city of Phnom Penh, this award-winning holiday destination offers an unparalleled experience that seamlessly blends opulence with eco-consciousness.
The inspiration behind the founding of Farmhouse Resort & Spa is deeply rooted in a profound encounter with the stark realities of poverty and suffering.
Before going on a journey as a philanthropist, Hannes had already established a successful career in photography and the arts. However, it was a chance encounter on the streets of Bangkok that would change the course of their life forever.
“I encountered a Cambodian girl in her adolescence but she was burnt with acid and had to stay on the street to beg for money.
This first-hand experience with extreme poverty has led me to found Smiling Gecko and eventually Farmhouse Resort and Spa.” Hannes said.
Driven by compassion and a sense of duty to uplift marginalised communities, he had a mission to create positive change in Cambodia. This vision culminated in the establishment of Smiling Gecko, a charitable organisation dedicated to addressing issues of poverty, education, and health in the region.
However, it was the realisation of the Farmhouse Resort & Spa that truly epitomised the his commitment to creating sustainable and impactful solutions.
By combining luxury hospitality with eco-friendly practices, Farmhouse Resort & Spa represents more than just a luxurious getaway. It serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity for the Cambodian people, particularly children, who stand to benefit from the resort’s charitable endeavors. With a focus on community-driven projects and sustainable development, the resort embodies the founder’s unwavering dedication to creating a brighter and more prosperous future for all.
Seed-to-table Approach at Farmhouse Resort & Spa
The seed-to-table approach adopted by Farmhouse Resort & Spa embodies a commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency in culinary practices.
This concept involves sourcing organic produce directly from the resort’s expansive 150-hectare campus and utilising it in the creation of dishes served to guests.
Essentially, seed-to-table emphasises the journey of ingredients from the initial planting of seeds to their eventual incorporation into meals.
Implementing this approach presents a set of challenges, particularly in the context of Cambodia’s agricultural landscape. Upon initiation, Farmhouse Resort & Spa faced obstacles such as a lack of infrastructure and expertise required for large-scale farming operations. “We encountered issues with soil fertility, water availability, and had to innovate in animal husbandry and crop production to establish a viable agricultural model.
To overcome these challenges, we collaborated with Swiss experts for knowledge-sharing and seek foreign resources to improve our farming practices.” Hannes added.
Despite the initial hurdles, the seed-to-table approach offers a multitude of benefits that greatly enrich the culinary experience at Farmhouse Resort & Spa. By utilising ingredients harvested directly from the resort’s campus, guests are treated to dishes made with the freshest and most nutritious produce available.
“The benefits are profound, enabling us to serve our guests with the freshest, most nutritious ingredients while minimising our carbon footprint.” he said.
Celebrating Cambodia Culinary Heritage; the Khmer Cuisine
“We have a profound appreciation for the rich culinary heritage of Cambodia and a desire to offer our guests an unparalleled gastronomic experience.” Hannes said.
Inspired by the richness and diversity of Cambodian culinary traditions, they have made a deliberate decision to showcase and elevate Khmer cuisine within our fine dining restaurant.
Led by their talented chef, Mariya Un Noun, who brings her Cambodian heritage and culinary expertise to the forefront, Hannes aims to transform traditional Khmer dishes into sophisticated fine dining experiences.
Central to their culinary philosophy is the preservation of the essence and authenticity of Khmer flavors while infusing innovative techniques and presentations. Through meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of Cambodian ingredients and cooking methods, Chef Mariya crafts dishes that not only tantalise the taste buds but also offer a glimpse into the cultural tapestry of Cambodia.
The response from their guests, according to Hannes, has been overwhelmingly positive. “Our guests have been very welcoming.
They appreciate the authenticity and innovation in our cuisine, which not only delights their palate but also offers them a deeper understanding of Cambodian culture through its flavors.” he added.
The guests are said to appreciate the authenticity and innovation present in our revamped Khmer cuisine, recognising it as a true reflection of Cambodian culinary heritage. With each dish served, they strive to not only redefine luxury Cambodian hospitality but also to showcase the country’s rich culinary traditions and the remarkable talent of its people on a global stage.
Education to Drive Sustainable Change in Cambodia
Farmhouse Resort & Spa’s mission revolves around fostering holistic development and empowerment within the communities it operates in. Beyond merely offering a luxurious retreat, the resort is committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
Central to this mission is the belief that education is the most potent tool for driving sustainable change, particularly in impoverished regions like Cambodia. By investing in children’s education, Farmhouse Resort & Spa aims to break the cycle of poverty and provide a pathway to a brighter future for generations to come.
“Our efforts in supporting education are not just about building schools or funding programs; they’re about creating a sustainable model that empowers the local community.
We invest in a bilingual curriculum, all-rounded education programs including sports and music lessons.” Hannes said.
The resort also provide health care, such as dental and medical clinics, and nutrition, ensuring that no child goes to bed hungry. This comprehensive approach not only enhances the children’s learning potential but also supports their families, fostering a community that can thrive independently.
“We cater to over 466 students, investing around $1.8 million annually, emphasising the importance of starting education as early as possible to prevent cognitive stunting due to malnutrition.” he added.
Community Engagement at Farmhouse Resort & Spa
Recognising the importance of economic self-sufficiency, the resort invests in skill training and job opportunities for villagers, aiming to equip them with the tools needed to secure meaningful employment and break the cycle of poverty.
Through vocational training programs spanning various trades such as farming, carpentry, and cooking, Farmhouse Resort & Spa ensures that individuals of all ages have access to avenues for personal and professional development.
By nurturing these skills, the resort not only creates employment opportunities within the community but also fosters local economic growth, laying the groundwork for sustainable prosperity.
In addition to providing job training, the resort operates as a catalyst for economic empowerment by employing 100% local individuals within its operations.
This commitment to local employment not only ensures that community members directly benefit from the resort’s success but also serves as a model for inclusive and sustainable business practices. By prioritising the hiring of local talent, the resort strengthens the local economy and fosters a sense of pride and ownership within the community.
Moreover, Farmhouse Resort & Spa’s engagement with the local community extends beyond immediate economic concerns to address long-term sustainability and independence. By leveraging its resources and expertise, the resort seeks to uplift the entire community, providing a pathway to a brighter future for generations to come.
Through initiatives focused on education, skill development, and economic empowerment, Farmhouse Resort & Spa embodies its commitment to making a lasting and positive impact on the lives of those it serves.
