Bali: The Latest Architecture and News

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Over the years, through projects such as the Green School and homes at the Green Village, bamboo has become an increasingly popular material in Bali, Indonesia. While design firms in Bali such as IBUKU have most often worked with bamboo in its round-pole form, advancements and testing in recent years are looking to increase the use of bamboo split beams in the realm of construction.

Bali, often called the "Island of the Gods," is known for its unique harmony between the microcosm of human life and the macrocosm of the natural environment. This delicate balance is deeply embedded in its traditional architecture, which reflects a synergy between cultural, religious, and environmental elements. Home to approximately four million people, Bali is Indonesia's only Hindu-majority province. While 1.7% of Indonesia's total population practices Hinduism, 87% of Bali's residents follow the faith. Over centuries, Balinese architecture has evolved through influences from the ancient Bali Aga culture, the Majapahit Kingdom, Dutch colonization, migration, and the rise of global tourism. Visitors are captivated not only by its temples and natural beauty but also by its evolving architectural styles, which strive to preserve the island's cultural essence.

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Architecture is about passion, that often turns into a lifelong journey of discovery. From places, materials, techniques, style or programs, through our interview series we’ve uncovered individual stories that show the many facets of architecture. One of our focuses has been in Indonesia, where we’ve found a new generation of architects dealing with the challenges of one of the world’s largest countries, driving innovation connected to an ever present nature and particular culture.

Long celebrated as havens of relaxation and luxury, resorts offer guests an escape from the mundanity of daily life. These sanctuaries seek to offer lavish accommodations, scenic locations, and comprehensive experiences. From sun-drenched beaches to mountain retreats, or secluded spots in the wilderness, resorts can take a variety of forms, each offering a unique experience. The history of architects designing resorts is intertwined with the development of the hospitality industry and the concept of leisure travel. In the realm of architecture, resorts allow designers to meld functionality with luxury living, creating spaces that offer experiences beyond just residences.

The Multifunctional complex “Next Collection” in Georgia by SPECTRUM Architecture illustrates this by adopting organic forms that blend into the seaside, while “Ethereal Mountains” by the Maden Group in Albania seeks to foster youth engagement in a breathtaking landscape. In Indonesia, the Villa complex “Olympus” by Geometrium Studio presents a unique structural concept where each villa’s roof acts as the terrace for the one above, echoing the rice fields of Bali. In this week’s curated selection of unbuilt resorts, submitted by the ArchDaily community, these themes are explored in different settings and design conditions.