THE JIWANI by Alexis Dornier

Situated at the serene northern shore of Bali, The Jiwani unravels a sculptural retreat that embraces the union of architecture, landscape, and artisanship. The house designed by Alexis Dornier talks about the intersection of Japanese purity and Balinese folklore. The design is such that it creates an L-shaped layout, which captures not only the ocean view but also the lush tropical garden, making it possible to have a never-ending interaction between the structure and nature.

Spatial Organization and Design Logic

The concept for the first floor is that it will serve as a communal hub that will directly connect the living, dining, and recreational areas to the beach. A basketball court close by is a witness to the sense of community and fun. Living areas on the upper floor are, intentionally, positioned in such a way that they will not only be able to get the best ocean views but also have access to the lush vegetation around. The arrangement of spaces in layers provides a very conducive environment for the coexistence of openness and privacy within a single architectural system.

Material and Construction Expression

The building showcases its inside through the use of very horizontal lines that are similar to the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright’s prairie houses. A large roof projecting over and very steep eaves provide shelter to the interiors against sun and rain, whereas the roof mass is visually lightened. Rafters and beams are not only exposed but also recognized as crafted details rather than being concealed elements. Local stone floors, wooden cladding, and exact joinery make one feel in touch with the place, giving importance to the building’s transparency in materials and the quality of the construction.

Cultural Interpretation and Contemporary Relevance

The Jiwani interprets the age-old and traditional wisdoms of Bali in a new and contemporary architectural style. Rather than clashing with the cultural traditions, it grows out of them and presents a picture of modern living that is still connected with the memory of the past. The design illustrates the compatibility of local crafts with both global preferences and eco-friendly methods in the field of tropical architecture.

Lessons for Architects and Designers

The power of material expression and contextual awareness in residential design is shown through this project. It encourages architects to think about the ways regional customs can provide clarity of space and good environmental performance. The Jiwani, moreover, questions the future of resort architecture in island contexts and asks how design can help both cultural continuity and modern comfort coexist.

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight

The Jiwani is a symbol of the perfect blend of architecture, nature, and craftsmanship. It was designed by Alexis Dornier, who has turned the typical image of a seaside residency into an artistic tale of spatial experience. The sensitive detailing and acknowledgment of the culture of the area make it a project that connects the past with the present in a very clever manner.

This design invites architects to the quest of modernity out of the local contexts. It is a capturing of the conversation among materiality, location, and atmosphere, thus disclosing that architecture can be both familiar and new at the same time. The Jiwani is much more than just a house by the sea; it is a silent discussion on design being the ever-evolving meeting point of nature and human creativity.

Conclusion

The Jiwani is symbolic of the coexistence of architecture, craftsmanship, and nature. Alexis Dornier’s design, with its meticulous attention to detail and cultural interpretation, gives the usual seaside dwelling a new perspective. It is an architectural contemplation on the potential of modernity to originate from the local context, daring architects to reimagine the meeting point of materiality, site, and mood.

Location: Lovina, Bali
Typology: Residential, Rental
Total Size: Main building 644 m², Swimming pool and decking 197 m², BOH 65 m², Basketball pitch 99 m²
Status: Completed 2024
Architectural Design: Alexis Dornier
Construction: DKS Construction
Photo Credit: KIE
Landscape: Costus Garden @costusgarden

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