one:sixteen

one:sixteen is named after the golden coffee to water ratio for the tastiest, most flavourful brew of coffee which mirrors the design’s intent to be the perfect ratio of coffee to the community.

one:sixteen is an extension of Terora Beach, Jalan Pratama, Bali, whereby it engages with the social, cultural, and physical context of the site through a modern lens. The design was informed by explorations of vernacular architecture, which led to the creation and emphasis of a transitional space within the cafe. With two volumes making up the fully indoor portions of the design, the negative space created comes together as one that is neither strictly indoor nor outdoor, a quality that Indonesian architecture makes great use of.

Users are able to circulate through the two units enclosed by a woven bamboo roof, large enough to provide natural shading for the entire building. One half allows for an immersive experience with the rich Indonesean coffee culture wherein visitors are able to purchase and consume coffee and snack foods. The other half creates an opportunity for community engagement, as a stage allows for a variety of performances and workshops to be held. This stage opens up to the outdoor circulation and seating area through a screen door, allowing for this engagement to expand into a positive loop of space and community that far transcends the typical concept of a cafe.

The major idea behind one:sixteen was to make use of vernacular architecture, and much of the organization was based upon the wisdom of the Balinese people. From the major Balinese architectural philosophies, four aspects that our team focused on were a good ventilation system, a strong foundation, a spacious yard, and a guarding wall. These aspects guided the foundation of one:sixteen. 

A responsive method of ventilation was achieved by orienting the building to allow wind to flow from the northeast to the southwest facade of the building, where wind flow is the most active as determined through a study of the climate consultant charts of Bali, allowing occupants to control the comfort levels of the cafe.

one:sixteen sits humbly on the coasts of Terora Beach, not because it couldn’t be extravagant and lavish--but because the principle belief behind our team’s design philosophy is to blend in seamlessly with the surrounding site. The single-storey height is designed to not obstruct the beach view, and its placement that opens out where the two paths meet, rather than to favour one direction, is a sign of clear invitation for all. Whether as a corner stop where patrons can grab a quick cup of Kintamani coffee, or a music house where one may enjoy their mug of Lanang, it will always remain a welcoming part of Terora Beach.

Through the strategic selection of vernacular materials, a strong foundation is created. Adobe walls and woven bamboo roof sourced from local manufacturers allow for a structurally sound coffeehouse that also supports the local economy. This solution is responsive to the environment and is sustainably sound. Furthermore, the eccentrically sloped roofing allows for the shedding of rainwater during monsoon seasons and pays homage to traditional Indonesian villas. Stone paving covers the base of the coffeehouse, acting as a solid foundation for the building to sit upon and resist harsh storms.

Our team went through four iterative designs prior to deciding on the final building massing. All team members were given a single aspect to focus upon, and each produced parti sketches that embraced the four traditional qualities of Balinese architecture. One aspect that remained consistent throughout the charrette period was the use of transitional space as a catalyst for interaction and community engagement. Collective research was conducted on the culture of Indonesian coffee to create a coffeehouse which harmonizes with the modern social climate.

one:sixteen is much more than a simple coffeehouse. It creates a unique set of spaces that engage the local population and culture, which fosters a sense of community. From live performances and workshops on the stage, to the sheltering transitional space, one:sixteen brews a casual and inviting atmosphere that serves as a house of coffee, culture, and interaction.