Ulu Cliffhouse

The Uluwatu clifftopin Bali provides a dramatic setting for ‘one of the best private clubs in theworld’ - Ulu Cliffhouse, designed by Shed, London. Shed, a London-basedinterior design and architecture studio, was invited to design The MandalaGroup Ulu Cliffhouse boutique hotel, with the brief to re-imagine a newgeneration of one-off destination venues that dance to the beat of their owndrum, whilst making the most of the breath-taking clifftop setting 30 metresabove Uluwatu beach. Shed partnered withimplementation architects, Design Assembly, and local design firm, The GoodFirm who specialise in Balinese craftmanship to design one-off pieces andinteriors. As the lead designer, Shed knew to be relevant the right recipe wasneeded to stand-out from the Balinese resort scene. The jewel in UluCliffhouse’s crown is the Ocean Deck, hidden out of sight only to bediscovered by a winding staircase that leads to this dramatic, secluded rockbar. The inspiration here was simple: The stunning natural beauty of the rockoutcrop rising above the crashing waves of the ocean. Built into the cliff facethe design is rustic and raw with bleached timber decking and a bar setseamlessly into the rock face. The Ulu Cliffhouse’spool area is the hotel’s centrepiece, giving a nod to mid-century geometricforms and pastel furniture. Loungers and bespoke sunshades arranged in ‘sets’around the pool, make the perfect setting to see and be seen. The Cliff Bar andRestaurant offers tiered dining with fantastic sea views. Shed designed the newtimber and rattan pavilions that provide a soft dappled shade. Furniture ishand crafted by local craftsmen and comes in an eclectic mix of styles: MidCentury rattan is paired with bold Hawaiian print, soft tertiary coloursprovide a changing landscape of personality. Matt Smith,co-founder of Shed and lead designer, says, “Many of the materials used in thisproject work within the context of the local resources and the beautiful,natural features available on this unique site. The materials have beenskilfully used to create a natural, yet dramatically contemporary, ruggednessto the overall design that ultimately lets the beauty of the clifftop landscapetake centre stage. ” Ben Jones, Owner ofThe Mandala Group, says, “Ulu Cliffhouse has redefined the Bali beach clubscene with world-class music, design, food and beverages. ” Completion date:2020 Building levels: 3 Project team: SHED