Sayart.net - Tapa Villa by Studio Tanama: A Modern Tropical Retreat Embracing Wabi-Sabi Philosophy in Indonesia

Nestled in the tranquil village of Beraban in Tabanan, Tapa Villa 2 represents a harmonious blend of modern tropical architecture and traditional Indonesian design philosophy. The 260-square-meter residential project, completed in 2025 by Studio Tanama under the leadership of architect Ryan B. Saputra, offers visitors a unique retreat where time seems to slow down and nature takes center stage. The villa is strategically positioned amidst endless rice fields, with the soothing sounds of a nearby river creating a natural soundtrack that enhances the property's serene atmosphere. This isn't merely a place to stay, but rather an immersive experience that connects guests with the natural environment of Bali. The architectural design language draws inspiration from Modern Tropical aesthetics, skillfully merging Bali's inherent earthy elegance with the free-spirited charm reminiscent of Tulum's coastal architecture. This fusion creates a distinctive visual identity that feels both locally rooted and internationally sophisticated. One of the villa's most striking features is its emphasis on dissolving boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. Large openings throughout the structure allow natural breezes, light, and the surrounding landscape to flow freely through the living spaces. This design approach not only enhances natural ventilation and lighting but also creates a seamless connection with the outdoor environment. The project's soul lies in its adherence to the wabi-sabi philosophy, a Japanese aesthetic concept that finds beauty in imperfection and impermanence. Every corner of Tapa Villa embraces this philosophy through the use of raw textures, weathered finishes, and honest materials that tell their own stories over time. Rather than pursuing conventional perfection, the design celebrates authenticity and the natural aging process of materials. The design team, which included Alfariz Septian on the lead team, Winata on the design team, and Utari on the technical team, carefully selected materials and finishes that would develop character as they weather and age. This approach creates spaces that don't chase artificial perfection but instead find beauty in genuine, unrefined elements. The villa's layout and spatial organization reflect a deep understanding of tropical living requirements. The design prioritizes cross-ventilation, natural lighting, and protection from the elements while maintaining visual connections to the surrounding landscape. The integration of indoor and outdoor spaces allows residents and guests to experience the changing patterns of light throughout the day and the seasonal variations in the surrounding rice fields. Photography by Thomas Irysad captures the villa's essence, showcasing how the structure sits harmoniously within its natural context. The images reveal the careful attention to detail in both the architectural elements and the way the building responds to its environment. The project stands as more than just an architectural achievement; it serves as a sanctuary of simplicity that demonstrates how contemporary design can honor traditional philosophies while meeting modern comfort standards. Tapa Villa represents a tribute to tropical living that feels both grounded in its cultural context and free in its expression of contemporary architectural ideas. The villa's success lies in its ability to create a sense of place that is deeply connected to its Indonesian setting while offering a universal appeal through its thoughtful design approach. It demonstrates how architecture can serve as a bridge between traditional wisdom and contemporary lifestyle needs, creating spaces that nurture both body and spirit. Located in Kediri, Indonesia, this residential project exemplifies Studio Tanama's commitment to creating architecture that responds sensitively to local climate, culture, and landscape conditions while incorporating international design influences in a meaningful way.