SINGARAJA STYLE

Presiding over Jimbaran Beach since 1993, the InterContinental Bali Resort— a 14-hectare property of statue-flanked ponds, lush tropical gardens, beachside cabanas, and vernacular architectural flourishes—has cultivated more than its share of loyal guests over the years. With the recent unveiling of its revamped Singaraja rooms and duplex suites, it looks set to woo a whole new generation of visitors. Occupying an exclusive wing within the 417room resort, the new-look guest quarters, which take their name from Bali’s northernmost city, now brim with updated technology and smartly conceived design details. For one, they’re brighter. Previously dark-wood trim and doors have been redone in a luminous white, while the decor now exudes a modish elegance that extends from hand-tufted wool rugs to handsome brass pendant lamps with finials modeled after those found atop Balinese roofs. And those aren’t the only nods to local culture that Singapore-based design firm James Park Associates (which was also involved in the 2010 restoration of the Taj Mahal Palace hotel in Mumbai) brought to the project. Wooden headboards are intricately carved with a classic Balinese lattice pattern, wall art depicts traditional dances and landscapes, and panels of specially treated woven rattan make an appearance in dressing rooms. But the most eye-catching feature is undoubtedly the full-length, hand-painted wall murals found in each room; rendered in soft monochrome hues, they’re inspired by motifs found on Balinese textiles and batiks.

Of course, there’s plenty of new tech and fittings too, from edgy Hansgrohe bathroom fixtures to wall-mounted smart TVs that provide not only thousands of channels of entertainment, but also a messaging interface for in-room dining and concierge services. Or you could just walk down to the new Singaraja Lounge, created for guests staying in the renovated rooms. Here, the concierge desk is manned until 10 p.m. each night, with the added bonus of complimentary coffee and snacks available round the clock ( 62-361/701-888; bali.intercontinental.com; doubles from US$245). — Christopher P. Hill