Our Team
The Coconut Collective is built by a team who share the same goal: creating something that stands out and lasts.
What started with one idea has grown into a clear vision for the future. Each of us brings a different strength from marketing and commercial thinking to operations and execution, and that combination is what makes it work.
It’s not just about creating venues… it’s about building a brand people connect with and keep coming back to, time and time again
Meet George Silk| Founder
With his signature big smile and unstoppable energy, George is the visionary behind The Coconut Collective. Originally from London, he built a strong foundation in sales, bringing a sharp commercial mindset together with creativity and instinct. George laid the foundation with the creation of Above The Coconuts, setting the tone for what the brand represents today. His passion for creating unique spaces and memorable experiences has been key in shaping The Coconut Collective into a brand with a clear identity and strong ambition. With a natural ability to connect with people and turn ideas into reality, George continues to lead in a central role in driving the vision forward and building the leading hospitality brand in Lombok.
Meet Gunnar van de Weem | Co-Founder
Gunnar, originally from Breda, The Netherlands is known for his energy and focused approach. He combines a strong work ethic with a clear vision for growth and collaboration. In his previous business, he served as Commercial Director, where he built a strong foundation in marketing and developed a sharp instinct for positioning and brand growth.
After George founded Above The Coconuts, Gunnar joined together with Joey as one of the first investors in the Coconut Collective. Since then, they have been working closely to grow the brand with the ambition of building it into the largest hospitality brand in Lombok. With his entrepreneurial mindset and focus on quality, Gunnar continues to turn ideas into concrete results while driving long-term growth.
Meet Joey de Koning | Co-Founder
Joey de Koning, originally from Breda, is known for his structured approach and strong operational mindset. With a clear focus on efficiency and execution, he brings balance to fast-moving environments and ensures that ideas are translated into solid, scalable operations. Together with Gunnar, he co-founded and co-owned a successful recruitment company in the Netherlands, where he took on the role of Operational Director. There, he built a strong foundation in managing teams, optimizing processes, and maintaining high standards across the board. After George founded Above The Coconuts, Joey joined as one of the first investors in The Coconut Collective. Together, they are building the brand with the ambition of making it the largest hospitality brand in Lombok. With his hands-on mentality and attention to detail, Joey plays a key role in turning vision into day-to-day reality while supporting long-term growt.
Meet Ade | Local Manager
Born and raised near Kuta, Lombok, Ade Gusman offers invaluable local insight and a deep connection to the area. As Under the Coconuts' local manager, Ade combines his extensive experience in customer service, construction, and management to ensure smooth operations and meaningful community relations. His local roots and expertise make him an essential bridge between the project and the region, fostering strong ties and creating a welcoming experience for guests that celebrates the spirit of Lombok.
Meet Sylvia | Architect
Studio On Island is led by Sylvia, an interior designer and architect who is originally from Bandung, West Java. Moving to Bali in 2014 has made Bali become her second home. Wandering its beauty has influenced her design style and created a particular focus on creating comfortable and functional spaces that reflect clients' lifestyles and needs. In her free time, she enjoys being a dog mom.
Meet Ari | Architect
Ari is an architect with a passion for film photography. With over 13 years of experience in the industry, Ari has led numerous successful projects. He believes that every space should tell a unique story and create a sense of connection to its surroundings. When he is not working on projects, Ari loves to explore his creativity through film photography, capturing the beauty of architecture, landscapes, and everyday life.
Meet Kristof | Consultant
Kristof Jan is the master craftsman behind The Coconut Collective’s stunning villas. With over a decade of experience building in Indonesia, Kristof combines European precision with an intimate understanding of local materials and techniques. His dedication to quality and attention to detail ensures that every villa meets the highest standards, blending luxury with sustainability. Kristof’s expertise doesn’t just shape the structures—it brings The Coconut Collective’s vision of timeless elegance to life, making every project a masterpiece.
Meet Max | Villa Management
Max, from Lagoon Management is the cornerstone of operations at The Coconut Collective, ensuring that every villa and project runs smoothly. With a keen sense of hospitality and a knack for problem-solving, Max is dedicated to making every guest and investor experience exceptional. Whether it’s coordinating logistics, managing villa teams, or ensuring every detail is flawless, Max’s expertise and calm leadership are at the heart of the collective’s success. His passion for Lombok and commitment to quality elevate everything The Coconut Collective offers.