Tradition, Refreshed

RENOWNED INDONESIAN ARCHITECT POPO DANES REINTERPRETS A TYPICAL SUMBANESE VILLAGE FOR LELEWATU RESORT & SPA.

The eastern Indonesian island of Sumba is beautiful and relatively untouched, which led Sumbanese businesswoman Jenny Tan to realise it has great potential to become a luxury tourism destination.

Among its charms include undulating limestone hills, lush greenery, clear waters and its interesting cultural heritage.

Yet, Tan also believes it is important that tourism grows sustainably and in harmony with the land.

In line with that, she launched her inaugural hospitality project, Lelewatu Resort & Spa, a 4,780m2 property on a 10ha site, designed by respected Indonesian architect Popo Danes.

“Tan’s brief was to create a resort that would highlight the local culture of Sumba and become an icon within the island,” says Danes, whose design concept was inspired by the dynamic topography of the island, and the rich culture of Sumba.

“The location, landscape and climate influenced the master plan for the resort. The steep, hilly terrain naturally separates each of the individual structures.

“We avoided cutting any of the natural trees by raising most of the structures on stilt foundations, which also helps with air circulation,” adds Danes.

VERNACULAR CUES

As part of the master plan, he created five zones within the site. In the first zone is the reception area. The second zone contains public areas with event spaces. Most of the villas are in the third zone.