Villa Omah Prana, a doughnut-shaped house in Bali, offers views of the surrounding forest from every space. Architect Alexis Dornier drew inspiration from concept sketches for a James Bond film to create the 475-square-meter circular home, located in the highlands of Payangan.

The house is organised around a raised brick planter at its heart, with a walkway wrapping the perimeter, shaded by the eaves of a large wooden-shingle roof.Dornier found an unlikely source of inspiration in the concept art of the space station in the 1970s James Bond film Moonraker.

“The project follows one clear idea: a ring-shaped plan that places all rooms along the perimeter, orienting them toward the surrounding landscape,” said Dornier. “Some of the curvature and the atmosphere reference early Ken Adam sketches for Moonraker – especially the clarity of a bold geometric move and the way space can feel choreographed without being theatrical.”

He added, “The geometry behaves almost like ripples expanding from one moment of impact – simple, readable, and consistent.”

Alexis Dornier’s Birdhouses Resort: A Blend of architecture and Nature

Architect Alexis Dornier has designed the Birdhouses resort in Bali,Indonesia,prioritizing a seamless integration with the surrounding natural environment. The resort showcases a unique architectural approach, drawing inspiration from Balinese weaving traditions and employing innovative construction techniques.

Design Inspiration: Balinese Weaving Traditions

Dornier’s design beliefs centers around creating spaces that feel intrinsically connected to nature. He achieved this by looking to Bali’s rich cultural heritage, specifically the art of weaving. This inspiration is most evident in the villa’s walls.

Herringbone Brickwork and Light Filtration

The villa walls are constructed using dark brickwork laid in a distinctive herringbone pattern. Crucially, the design incorporates perforated sections. These perforations aren’t merely aesthetic; they strategically filter light from the central courtyard into the bedrooms, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow.

The Circular Courtyard and Timber Ceiling

Above,the courtyard ceiling is clad in timber planks that mirror the home’s circular form. The ceiling slopes gently downwards, directing attention towards a central lightwell. This lightwell serves a dual purpose: it allows ample natural light to flood the planter below and also facilitates the collection of rainwater.

Key Takeaways

• Biophilic Design: The resort exemplifies biophilic design principles, prioritizing a connection to nature.
• Cultural Integration: The design thoughtfully incorporates Balinese weaving traditions.
• Natural Light & Ventilation: Strategic use of perforations and a central lightwell maximizes natural light and ventilation.
• Enduring Materials: The use of timber and brick suggests a focus on durable and locally sourced materials.

Frequently asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the core design principle behind the Birdhouses resort?

The core principle is to create a space that seamlessly blends with the natural environment, drawing inspiration from Balinese culture and traditions.

How does the herringbone brickwork contribute to the design?

the herringbone pattern is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The perforations within the brickwork allow for filtered light and ventilation.

What is the purpose of the central lightwell?

The lightwell serves as a focal point, bringing natural light into the planter and collecting rainwater.

Published: 2025/12/29 13:42:25