The House Kala, a circular home in Lombok, Indonesia, is a masterpiece of architecture that seamlessly blends nature and design. Designed by local architecture practice Caceres + Tous, this residence is a testament to the power of natural materials and thoughtful design. The use of earth-toned walls, curved architecture, and a focus on maximizing views create a unique and captivating space.
One of the most striking features of House Kala is its circular shape. The design maximizes the 360-degree views of the sea and surrounding forest, creating a sense of openness and connection to nature. The circular form is achieved through the land's position, resulting in an outward-facing open shape while maintaining an enclosed, private patio at its center. This design choice not only enhances the views but also provides a sense of seclusion and tranquility.
The exterior of the house features full-height glass doors, creating a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The glass doors are framed by chunky terracotta-toned columns, adding a touch of warmth and texture to the design. The use of terracotta-toned plaster on the curved walls is a clever nod to the local vernacular, mimicking the tone of the soil in Lombok. This subtle reference to the surrounding environment creates a harmonious relationship between the house and its natural surroundings.
The interior of House Kala is a study in contrast and balance. The expansive views are complemented by a carefully organized layout. The large, semicircular living, dining, and kitchen space is positioned in the most exposed area, overlooking the sea and sunset to the southwest. This space seamlessly opens out onto a terrace, featuring both a decorative shallow infinity pool and a swimming pool, further enhancing the connection to the outdoors.
The bedrooms are strategically positioned to capture the sunrise, providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere. A circular corridor wraps the central patio, which is surrounded by a curved wall, creating a sense of enclosure and privacy. The circular entrance space, with a small pool beneath a circular opening, adds a touch of whimsy and uniqueness to the design.
The interior design choices further emphasize the connection to nature. The terracotta-toned walls are complemented by dark stained timber carpentry that lines the ceilings and bedroom walls, adding warmth and texture. Custom terrazzo floors and black aluminum window frames create a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere. The use of natural materials and earthy tones throughout the house reinforces the overall theme of harmony with the environment.
Caceres + Tous, the architecture practice behind House Kala, has a strong connection to Indonesia. Founded in 2015 by Nico Caceres and interior designer Kiko Tous, the practice has been creating unique and innovative designs in the country. Their previous works, such as Villa Omah Prana in Bali, showcase their expertise in circular architecture and their ability to blend natural materials with modern design.
In conclusion, House Kala is a remarkable example of architecture that celebrates nature and design. The circular shape, earth-toned materials, and thoughtful layout create a space that is both visually stunning and functionally exceptional. Caceres + Tous has successfully crafted a private refuge that maximizes views and provides a sense of seclusion, all while maintaining a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment. This house is a testament to the power of architecture to enhance our connection to nature and create spaces that inspire and captivate.
