Private ResidenceBuilt

Santo Residence

A private sanctuary nestled in the tropical hills of Ubud, where interior and exterior dissolve into a continuous landscape of light, shade, and living.

Location

Ubud, Bali

Year

2024

Area

450 m²

Status

Built

Floors

2

Role

Lead Design Architect

Design Challenge

The Brief

The site sat on a steep slope with mature trees and a river valley below. The challenge was to create a sense of secure enclosure while opening the residence to the views and tropical breezes.

Design Concept

The Idea

The concept emerged from the existing topography — a series of elevated pavilions connected by shaded walkways, each oriented to capture specific views and wind directions.

Concept Diagram

Reference diagram.

Spatial Strategy

Arrangement

Public zones occupy the upper level, opening to the north view. Private bedrooms descend the slope, each with its own garden terrace.

FLOOR PLANConceptual / IllustrativeNPublic pavilions are lifted toward the view while private rooms descend into quieter garden edges.publicprivateserviceoutdoorNot to scale — for illustrative purposes onlyGround Floor24m x 18mArrival Court36 m2Living Pavilion72 m2Dining32 m2Guest Suite30 m2Service24 m2Upper Floor18m x 12mPrimary Suite48 m2Bedroom Terrace28 m2Study20 m2Bridge Walkway18 m2

Section Diagram

Tropical Section Logic

Conceptual / illustrative diagram for architectural communication. Not a construction or permit drawing.

SECTION DIAGRAMConceptual / IllustrativeVertical section showing spatial relationships and environmental strategiesHillside Tropical SectionDeep OverhangShelters glazing from sun and monsoon rain.High VentReleases warm air through clerestory openings.Living PavilionCreates a generous air volume over the main gathering space.Garden EdgeFilters light and cools the arrival sequence.Timber ScreenSoftens privacy and glare along the west side.rooffloorwallopeningcourtyarddouble heightshadingNot to scale — conceptual section diagram

Tropical Response

Climate Strategy

Deep overhangs protect all glazing from direct sun and rain. Cross-ventilation is engineered through every room via operable louvers and clerestory windows.

Materiality

Material Atmosphere

Local stone plinths, timber ceilings, terrazzo floors, textured plaster walls, and brushed brass accents.

Gallery

Project Views

Related Journal Articles

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