The Istana Villa

Ensuring the privacy and security of its guests, The Istana, which is Indonesian for ‘Palace’, is surrounded by an imposing white wall, and it is accessed through a constantly manned massive wooden gate.

Five years post its inception and redefining private luxury villas on the island, the Istana is undergoing some alterations.

Gfab Architects, one of Asia’s leading design firms has conceived of, and is implementing the changes to the villas interior and structure.

The aim of the works is to update and freshen the villa; there will be an entirely new look, while still maintaining the essence of the Istana.

The focus was that this would be a modern approach yet still being firmly rooted in Balinese traditions and creativity.

An emphasis on comfort and privacy for guests has been forefront on the mind of the architects and the owners.

The Istana is located on south western tip of Bali in an area designated the Bukit.

This five bedroom estate overlooks white sand beaches and a blue lagoon abundant with fish and living coral, and offers a prime location from which to witness the island’s stunning sunsets.

When the trade winds blow, a massive swell from the Pacific Ocean crashes onto the reefs surrounding the area creating waves that attract surfers from around the world; the breaks are rated to be the fifth best in the world, and Uluwatu beach is only a ten minute walk from the villa.

With the property located so close to the holy Pura Uluwatu, one of island’s nine mother temples, the site is spiritually inspiring and undeniably unique.

Set back forty meters from the cliff face, The Istana sits within a tremendous gated property.

The overall style is a medley between understated modern architecture and traditional Indonesian detailing, with features that blend Indonesian materials and workmanship.

The artwork represents a mixture of primitive art and antiques originating from Indonesia, keeping with the aura of tradition and style.