Introducing Indonesian Heritage through Interior Design

With 26 years of experience under his belt, Rudy Dodo is known for his versatile and unique design that transcends the functional aspect of the space to be in harmony with the surrounding environment and the people. At the helm of his award-winning company, Trivium Design Group, he has created various outstanding works, ranging from private residences to offices and resorts. Among the highlights of his projects are Amed Resort Bali, Funtasy Island Villa in Batam and many more. Rudy recently talked with Erza S.T. from Indonesia Design about his latest creation, The Apurva Kempinski Bali.

Indonesia Design (ID): The Apurva Kempinski Bali seems to have a very clear objective on its design to revive the glory days of the Majapahit kingdom. Can you share the design thinking process to create this magnificent concept? How do you embody the design vision to make this concept not only filled with heritage but also showcase a contemporary feel?

Rudy Dodo (RD): I wanted to create an entire space that tells a story of the glorious Majapahit kingdom era, which can take guests to feel the kingdom’s glory days from the entrance and as they walk through the water courtyard en route to the main lobby. I have also put many Balinese elements to synergise with the main design concept created by the architect Budiman Hendropurnomo of Denton Corker Marshall. The objective is to create the design that brings the glorious past nuance through a tropical design concept integrating modern principals. We have made tremendous efforts to showcase the Indonesian heritage in the eyes of the world by incorporating the finest local craftsmanship, philosophy and materials into the interior design. As you explore the hotel’s premises, you will see a beautiful array of striking Balinese as well as Javanese wood carvings from Jepara region, furniture made of rattan bamboo and the Sumba woven textile as upholstery. There are also traditional crafts from Sulawesi, Papua and Kalimantan as well as those from the Island of Gods. Also worth mentioning is the marvelous wooden pillar by the lobby, which is made of teakwood and kumohay. No less important, the design overall represents modern tropical Indonesia infused with classic elements.

(ID) Can you tell us more about the stunning intricate gebyok in the lobby?

(RD): We use gebyok partitions as they symbolise the glorious Majapahit kingdom. The lobby encompasses an area of 2,000 sqm with several pillars. Our approach was to have some elements to cover those pillars in the construction of a cosy lobby. By putting 12 x 8-metre gebyok in four points in the lobby, we bring Indonesia’s majestic design whilst creating secluded sitting space.

(ID) We heard about your collaboration with the owner on making the interior concept of the resort into reality. Can you share us the design process journey? What was the owner’s vision?

(RD): We are very fortunate that since the beginning of the construction we have had 100 per cent support from the client. There is strong understanding between us that enabled this mutual collaboration.

Our client has been very passionate about having the best design and materials, not only from Indonesia but also from all over the world. Starting from Vimar, Italian switches and sockets to the stone walls throughout the resort. We brought the stone walls from Germany to ensure that the walls will not be mossy, and the colour will not turn into blackish due to the weather, especially for parts that are submerged in water.

Labradorite stone used on the lobby’s floor may be the only one in Indonesia. As you approach the stone, you will clearly see other colours appear on the floor just like with gemstones that are worn as jewellery.

All in all, we are not just designing or building a hotel, but creating a legacy!