JP/18/BOX

JP/18/BOX

Ubud resort blends classical and modern design concepts

When the Bali-based Arte Architect and Associates was
commissioned to design Puri Wulandari Hotel and Resort in the
upscale area of Ubud, the basic concept was to incorporate
classical Balinese architectural elements with modern styles.

"We are trying to re-interpret and rework the tradition into
the newest forms of architectural idioms. We respect the
tradition while at the same time warmly embrace modernity. It
(the design) is of a type that unites the past, present and
future," principal architect Ketut Arthana explained.

The designs have adopted some of the traditional Balinese
cluster or courtyard architecture in the placement of each
building consisting of a free-standing lobby, swimming pool or
cottages, to resemble traditional Balinese compounds.

In designing the lobby, the architect adopted the design
concept of Kertagosa water palace in Klungkung, East Bali, an
outstanding example of Balinese architecture. Facing the fabulous
Ayung River, the open-spaced lobby is surrounded by water ponds.

In general, Balinese architectural concepts are adopted only
in terms of ornaments and physical appearance and apply these
elements to structures and buildings.

"Many architects are not aware of the importance of the
spatial concept of Balinese architecture, which allows them to
experiment and to explore more with this concept," Arthana added.

In this project (Puri Wulandari Hotel), the designs were
emphasized to maximize "space management," and to create a
particular atmosphere of "Balinese-ness," by only applying
ornaments as a complement to the spatial design.

For this distinctive design, the Indonesian Architects
Association (IAI) lauded this property with a special
architectural award in the non-residential category.

The annual IAI awards, made on Batam island last Tuesday, were
given to honor the best talent in the Indonesian Architectural
world. The awards were presented to architectural firms,
individuals and university students for various categories: non-
residential, public facilities, renovation and preservation of
historical buildings, etc.

Amid the flood of overseas architects and architectural firms
working in Indonesia, it was a welcome change for Arthana that
local architects could still play a significant role in the
development of the country's architecture.

"This award is recognition and encouragement for local
architects and architectural firms to work harder and produce
their best," Arthana maintained. -- JP