- Project: Belalu Dome Villa
- Architect: Pablo Luna Studio
- Location: Indonesia, Ubud, Bali
- Year: 2025
- Area: 80 m2
- Photography: Pablo Luna Studio
An Organic Sanctuary in the Heart of Bali
Perched within the lush tropical landscape of Ubud, Belalu Dome Villa by Pablo Luna Studio redefines the concept of sustainable luxury. Designed as part of a boutique retreat, the villa blends contemporary craftsmanship with vernacular traditions, creating a structure that feels both sculptural and deeply connected to nature.
The project takes inspiration from Bali’s organic topography and traditional domed shelters. Through curving lines, natural materials, and fluid spatial connections, the design embraces the island’s climate and culture while offering guests a serene, meditative escape.
Architecture Rooted in Nature
The villa’s most striking feature is its arched dome roof, which rises from the ground in a seamless flow—like an organic extension of the terrain. Crafted from bamboo and timber, this curved structure eliminates the need for rigid columns, allowing interior and exterior spaces to merge naturally.
Large openings and shaded verandas invite daylight and breezes throughout the interior, ensuring passive cooling in the tropical climate. The result is a dwelling that feels alive—breathing with its environment and shifting with the sun.
Spatial Harmony and Material Warmth
Inside, Belalu Dome Villa unfolds as a continuous, free-flowing space. A single curved volume contains a bedroom, an open-air bathroom, and a small lounge connected by smooth transitions rather than walls. The design encourages movement and visual continuity, reflecting the studio’s philosophy of “architecture as experience.”
The material palette is tactile and natural—bamboo, limestone, teak, and woven rattan—carefully selected for their local availability and sensory warmth. Textures and tones evoke a dialogue between human comfort and the surrounding jungle, creating a sense of quiet refuge.
Sustainable Craftsmanship and Local Identity
Beyond its sculptural form, the villa embodies a commitment to sustainability. Its lightweight bamboo frame minimizes environmental impact, while locally sourced materials reduce transportation energy. The geometry of the dome encourages natural ventilation and rainwater flow, eliminating the need for mechanical systems.
Built by local artisans using traditional joinery, the project highlights the potential of Balinese craftsmanship in modern eco-architecture. Each handmade element—from the woven roof panels to the carved timber details—contributes to an atmosphere of authenticity and warmth.
A Living Sculpture of Rest and Reflection
At its core, Belalu Dome Villa is more than a place to stay—it’s an immersive experience of place, culture, and material honesty. By merging architecture, landscape, and emotion, Pablo Luna Studio has created a dwelling that celebrates simplicity, fluidity, and the timeless bond between human life and the natural world.
