Ubud resort blends classical and modern design concepts
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