Villa Joyia - A design escape in Ubud, Bali
A journey through tradition and modernity. Discover the stunning design details of Villa Joyia in Ubud and enjoy a curated guide to the best experiences in the area.
Bali's history is deeply rooted in tradition, spirituality, and cultural influences. It is an island of many possibilities—the perfect place for a yoga retreat, surfing, immersing yourself in nature, or connecting with the kindness of the local community. It also offers an incredible variety of global cuisine.
What captivates me about Bali is its stunning variety of hotels, villas, and resorts, each with a distinct design that ranges from ultimate luxury to eco-conscious retreats seamlessly blending with nature. The island’s magnetic charm has drawn expats from around the world, many of whom have found their true home here. This cultural fusion has sparked remarkable creativity in architecture and design, shaping spaces that are both inspiring and unforgettable.
No visit to Bali is complete without experiencing Ubud. Famous for its enchanting traditional dance performances, Ubud is also a gateway to breathtaking landscapes—cascading waterfalls, lush rice terraces, and tranquil lakes. Its lively streets are lined with local design boutiques, while its culinary scene offers a vibrant mix of flavours, inviting you to embark on a sensory journey like no other.
A seamless blend of wild natural beauty and refined design, Villa Joyia is a sanctuary of sophistication hidden in the heart of Ubud’s jungle. Here, luxury meets tranquillity, where the only sounds are the gentle rush of the river, the cascading waterfall, and the whispers of the surrounding jungle. A true escape from the bustle of everyday life.
The villa features four spacious en-suite bedrooms on the upper floor, while a mezzanine level houses an elegant dining area connected by a striking spiral metal staircase. The expansive ground floor is designed for both relaxation and entertainment, boasting a stunning swimming pool, a heated jacuzzi, a private gym, a cinema projector, a stylish bar corner, and a pool table.
Let’s delve into the design choices, intricate details, and unique elements that make this retreat a true architectural gem.
INTERVIEW WITH THE ARCHITECT
I had the privilege of experiencing a stay in Villa Joyia firsthand, immersing myself in its essence for a few nights. My curiosity led me to explore the architectural details of the villa, designed by the renowned Italian studio DnA Associates Design and Architecture, with offices in Milan and San Marino, as well as in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
I had the opportunity to chat with Arnaldo Puglia, one of the founding members of the studio. During our conversation, we went into the philosophy and challenges that shaped this exceptional architectural masterpiece. The owners’ vision was to bring the jungle into the home through expansive glass windows, creating a seamless connection with nature. Of course, there was no better source of inspiration than Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic Fallingwater project.
Initially, before even visiting the site, the architect envisioned a more traditional structure. However, upon discovering the land—a sloping plot overlooking a river—he decided to embrace a multi-level design that harmonises with the natural contours of the landscape.
One of the primary challenges was breaking away from traditional Balinese architectural norms, which often favour classical styles. Instead, the architects opted for a robust concrete structure, softened by furnishings and design elements that pay homage to local culture. The blend of industrial materials, such as metal and glass, with natural elements like teak and handmade ceramics, creates a perfect balance between modernity and tradition.
This fusion of styles is influenced by both the local atmosphere and contemporary Italian design. It is particularly evident in details like the outdoor staircase, crafted from light and transparent glass, which elegantly connects the mezzanine to the upper floor where the four bedrooms are located. Inside, a striking staircase—bold yet sensual—links the mezzanine to the ground floor, acting as an architectural centrepiece. This sculptural element not only enhances the villa’s character but also serves as a defining feature of its design.
Indoor black metal staircase
On the top floor, the four bedrooms are designed to embrace a sense of openness, allowing guests to wake up to breathtaking views of the jungle. As sunlight filters through the canopy, the atmosphere is one of pure serenity and awe. Each room is thoughtfully designed, featuring fine linens and an elegant in-room bathtub, blending comfort with Balinese-inspired aesthetics.
Every detail has been considered to ensure a luxurious stay—from the beautifully crafted ceiling to the perfect balance of air conditioning and ceiling fans for ultimate comfort. Just imagine waking up, drawing back the curtains, filling the bathtub, and indulging in a peaceful morning read while immersed in relaxation.
On the mezzanine floor, the villa’s spacious dining area is designed for both relaxation and conviviality.
Entering through a traditional Balinese door, you step into a space that seamlessly connects the indoors with the outdoors, where the villa’s striking contrasts in materials and shapes immediately become apparent.
Inside, the dining area features a grand table that seats up to 12 guests, creating the perfect setting for shared meals and gatherings. Just behind it, a fully equipped kitchen provides everything needed to host events or enjoy authentic local cuisine prepared by a private chef in the comfort of your home.
The dining area opens onto the terrace and jacuzzi, serving as a central link between the villa’s lower interior spaces and the upper outdoor levels. Beyond the pool and jacuzzi, sunbeds invite you to relax on the mezzanine terrace or the wooden deck nestled within the beautiful garden.
On the bottom floor, a spacious living area is designed for both entertainment and relaxation. Here, guests can enjoy a game of pool or sink into the plush sunken sofa while watching a movie on the overhead projector. This inviting space opens up to stunning views of the jacuzzi’s waterfall cascading into the pool, creating a serene and immersive atmosphere.
The open layout allows the jungle breeze to flow freely, enhancing the sense of connection with nature. Whether gathering with friends or simply unwinding in solitude, this area offers the perfect balance of conviviality and tranquillity.
Among the villa's most distinctive features is its breathtaking exterior—a space that seamlessly integrates a jacuzzi, which cascades its water into the pool below, creating a stunning waterfall.
Expansive glass windows throughout the villa enhance this connection with nature, blurring the boundaries between the interior and the surrounding landscape. This design vision, born from the owner’s desire and brought to life through remarkable architectural craftsmanship, allows the tranquil sounds of the river, pool, and waterfall to become the villa’s immersive jungle soundtrack.
Villa Joyia embodies the fusion of two worlds: the solid modernity of contemporary architecture and the poetic lightness of Balinese nature. It is a perfect example of how design and environment coexist in seamless harmony.
This is how I see Bali—a place where diverse cultural influences shape not only the island’s identity but also its architecture and design, reflecting the vision of the expats who call it home or choose to invest in its beauty.
Villa Joyia Outdoor
This luxurious villa is an outstanding retreat for private holidays, as well as a place to host gatherings. The outdoor area is perfect for weddings, corporate retreats, and other special events. The combination of natural beauty and top-notch facilities ensures that your event will be nothing short of spectacular. The villa is part of Charming Escape Group, specialised in designing, building and managing bespoke luxury properties in Bali.
UBUD GUIDE
Villa Joyia is located approximately 25 minutes on foot from the heart of Ubud.
Below is a brief yet insightful guide to exploring Ubud at its best. If you’d like to dive deeper, stay tuned for my upcoming articles, where I’ll share a detailed guide on must-visit spots, restaurants, and local experiences to make the most of your stay in Ubud. If you're planning a trip to Bali and would like a consultation, feel free to contact me at veronica@veronicamenegolo.com.
Some must-do experiences in Ubud include exploring the vibrant Ubud Art Market, visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, admiring the historic Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung), and witnessing a mesmerizing traditional Balinese dance performance.
FOOD
Room4Dessert
More than a restaurant is an experience by chef Will Goldfarb, offering an immersive tasting experience. Blending local ingredients with bold flavours, it pairs intricate desserts with innovative cocktails in an intimate, storytelling-driven setting.
The restaurant blends culture, tradition, and a passion for fine food, using fresh, premium ingredients to create exceptional cuisine.
is a refined riverside restaurant in Ubud, Bali, offering an intimate dining experience in private bamboo cocoons overlooking the Ayung River. Part of the Ritz-Carlton Reserve, it serves Mediterranean-European cuisine crafted with premium ingredients, paired with an extensive wine selection.
Locavore NXT
An innovative dining experience in Bali that pushes the boundaries of modern gastronomy. Known for its experimental approach, the restaurant blends cutting-edge techniques with locally sourced ingredients, creating a multi-sensory culinary journey.
A fine dining gem in Ubud, offering a fusion of French gastronomy with the rich flavors of Indonesian ingredients in an intimate garden setting.
A stylish café with breathtaking views of the lush Tegalalang rice terraces, perfect for coffee lovers and those seeking a serene escape.
A plant-based haven in Ubud, renowned for its raw and vegan cuisine, healing workshops, and holistic approach to food.
NATURE
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Campuhan Ridge Walk
Langgahan Waterfall
Nungnung Waterfall
Benjar Mancingan Rice Trekking
Ceking Rice Terrace
Kajeng Rice Field Walk
Badung Waterfall
Kanto Lampo Waterfall
Suwat Waterfall
YOGA
The Yoga Barn
Alchemy
Pyramids of Chi
Bamboo Nest
Hesa Wellness Spa Ubud
___
If you want to discover more about Bali or explore design and travel destinations, you can subscribe to my blog here.
Enjoy Ubud, enjoy Bali, and embrace the connection and kindness of the local people. Live life to the fullest—savour the beauty of travel, immerse yourself in new cultures, try incredible food, and create unforgettable memories to take home.
Veronica
