Open To All

On one of the last remaining unoccupied beachfront sites in Seminyak, the newly opened Potato Head Studios calls into question the exclusivity and restricted access that typically come with a resort property. OMA worked with Andramatin on the project, and favoured connection with the community rather than detached consumption by guests.

Central to the resort is an open platform – a ‘cultural ground plane’, as OMA refers to it, which leads to the beach. Around it, perched on columns, is a ring of private guest rooms and other functions, including an exhibition space and a sunset bar.

A public route winds upwards through the complex to a rooftop sculptural park, connecting as it goes with amenity spaces including pools, spas and restaurants. The open platform evokes traditional courtyards and provides a stage for leisure activities as well as cultural events.

“Potato Head Studios is a resort for open engagement rather than private consumption,” says OMA. “It is a new space for the community where visitors of all kinds – hotel guests and the general public – experience contemporary Balinese culture, while making it.”

See more of Potato Head Studios on pages 144-151. Photo by Kevin Mak for OMA.