Bawa House by Stilt Studios: A Paradigm of Sustainable Tropical Living in Bali

Nestled in the tranquil Balinese village of Pererenan, Bawa House stands as a testament to sustainable, low-impact living within a modern tropical context. Designed by Stilt Studios and completed in 2024, this 165 m² home transforms a once barren piece of land into a vibrant, eco-friendly sanctuary. Through the use of natural building materials and lush landscaping, Bawa House embodies a harmonious blend of contemporary design and environmental stewardship.

Architectural Vision

Design Philosophy

Bawa House is raised on stilted foundations, a nod to the traditional Balinese built environment. This single-story design mirrors the architectural vernacular of the surrounding neighborhood, fostering a symbiotic relationship with the land. The project prioritizes green spaces and minimizes its ecological footprint, aligning with Stilt Studios’ commitment to environmental sustainability.

Modular Construction

The house employs a 3x3 meter modular system, constructed using prefabricated building elements and responsibly sourced materials, primarily wood. This choice not only enhances carbon storage but also expedites construction while maintaining high quality control. The use of efficient steel structures and extensive customization options allows for a flexible yet robust build, reducing waste and significantly lowering the carbon footprint.

Interior Design

Space and Light

The minimalist family home comprises a main living area, three bedrooms, and an office, each designed to connect seamlessly with the outdoors. The design minimizes solid walls, opting instead for large sliding doors and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the interiors with natural light. This openness creates a sense of space and continuity, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living.

Functional Elegance

Interior design by Atacass Design Studio emphasizes functionality and elegance. The use of natural materials and simple lines creates a calming atmosphere. Elevated wooden walkways connect different parts of the house, extending the living area and providing long lines of sight that enhance the feeling of spaciousness on the compact site.

Landscaping

A Green Oasis

Bali Landscape Company has transformed the surroundings of Bawa House into a lush tropical garden. The landscaping features a play with vertical space, with buildings positioned at varying heights to create dynamic perspectives. Trees and plants fill the areas between buildings, making the house appear as though it is floating amidst greenery.

Environmental Impact

The vibrant garden not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. It attracts wildlife back to the land and creates a microclimate that helps cool the site during Bali's hottest months. The garden's design incorporates vertical lines, with the highest building enveloped in a canopy of trees that spirals down to broad tropical leaves surrounding the swimming pool.

Sustainability

Eco-Friendly Materials

Stilt Studios' ethos of environmental stewardship is evident in the materials chosen for Bawa House. Prefabricated building elements and responsibly sourced wood reduce the environmental impact. The efficient use of steel structures supports the modular design, ensuring sustainability without compromising on quality or durability.

Low Impact Living

Bawa House exemplifies how modern family living can be achieved sustainably. Its design counters the high-density development trend sweeping across Bali, offering a low-impact alternative that respects the local environment and community. The project showcases that it is possible to create a comfortable, contemporary home that harmonizes with nature rather than disrupts it.

Bawa House by Stilt Studios is more than just a residence; it is a paradigm of sustainable tropical living. Through innovative design, responsible material use, and thoughtful landscaping, the project demonstrates that modern architecture can coexist with the environment. It stands as an oasis of calm and a beacon of eco-conscious living in the bustling landscape of southern Bali. Bawa House is not only a home but a statement that sustainable living is not only feasible but desirable, setting a benchmark for future developments in the region.

All Photographs are work of Tommaso Riva