Ulaman Retreat is a wellness retreat in Kaba Kaba on Bali Island in Indonesia with a total floor area of 3300 sq m. The retreat is designed by Inspiral Architecture and Design Studio and shares a border with a river on one side and luscious rice fields on the other. The project takes a carbon zero approach by integrating nature into the design and using materials that are found directly on the site or nearby locality.
The Ulaman retreat is located on a hill which requires major groundwork and the excessive soil is then used to create masses of curved walls. The walls on the ground floor are constructed with rammed earth. It not only exudes beauty through its layering and color but also provides excellent insulation and imparts structural strength to the structure. The water from the bordering river converges and creates a junction of small waterfalls that increases the water flow to run the hydroelectric generator that facilitates the power of the buildings.Â
The Inspiral Architecture and Design Studio team recruited people from nearby villages and trained them to work on the project as it was a rigorous task and required more manpower. The remaining structure uses bamboo as a construction material which is majorly harvested on the project site. The reasons behind opting for bamboo are its sustainability quotient, fast growth, and flexibility of use.
The Yoga studio is a cantilever structure that floats off the cliff’s edge and supports a parabolic bamboo pavilion. The decor of the rooms is executed in a way that reflects luxury and an up-market approach. Some bedrooms feature cocoon-like setups perfectly aligning with the eco-resort concept. The bamboo architecture and warm tones of rammed earth are the common elements of all the spaces, what stands out are curvilinear roof formations that can be admired from different heights and angles. Below lies a pool that creates dramatic effects with the reflections of the curved roof.
This project has turned out to be the most sustainable rammed earth project in Indonesia. It ensures to provide the guests with a luxurious stay with no compromise in sustainability and energy efficiency criteria.
Fact Sheet
Project Name: Ulaman Retreat
Location: Kaba Kaba, Bali, Indonesia
Total Floor Area: 3300 sq m
Firm Name: Inspiral Architecture and Design Studio
Design Team: Laura Tika, Puce Subagiono Soepeno, Gunawan Rusdiana
Landscape Architect: Imaji
Image Credits: Mati Allendes
