On Saturday, June 28, 2025, the Jimbaran Art Hall at Jimbaran Hub became the epicenter of architectural innovation as Jimbaran Hijau (JH), in collaboration with the Indonesian Institute of Architects (IAI) Bali Chapter, hosted the final judging and award ceremony of the Natadesa Apartment Architectural Design Competition.
The competition, which launched on March 27, 2025, attracted significant interest from the design community, with 110 participants registering, 72 submissions received, and 25 standout entries shortlisted for a special exhibition. From these, five finalists were selected to present their concepts directly to a prestigious panel of judges.
The jury comprised respected figures in architecture and sustainability:
- Prof. Dr. Ir. Sulistyawati, M.S., M.M., M.Mis., D.Th. – Professor of Architecture, Udayana University
- Dr. Putu Agung Prianta, B.Eng(Hons.), MA. – CEO of Jimbaran Hijau
- Ar. Prasetyoadi, IAI (Tiyok) – Vice Chairman of Green Building Council Indonesia
- Ar. I Ketut Dirgantara, ST., MT., IAI – Representative of IAI Bali
- Ar. Gathi Subekti, ST., IAI – Representative of IAI National
The designs presented reflected the competition’s core theme of INCLUSIVITY, emphasizing silent luxury—a style that merges modernity with nature and Balinese cultural authenticity. In his address, Dr. Agung Prianta, CEO of Jimbaran Hijau, emphasized: “One key point in the competition’s terms of reference was preserving the authenticity of Balinese architecture. With Natadesa, Jimbaran Hijau aims to serve as a model for development that strengthens local identity and context.”
The event also featured an insightful talk show titled “Sustainability in Architecture,” led by Greenship professionals Ar. Ari Setya Wibawa, IAI, GP, and moderated by Ar. Idnul Fitriya, IAI, GP. The discussion explored how architecture can offer solutions for a greener, more responsible future, and offered continuing education credits (KUM) for attending architects.
KATA Design Studio, a Bali-based firm, was declared the winner with their design titled “Ngarangin Bukit.” The studio reimagined the traditional bale meten—the most private and symbolic space in a Balinese home—introducing a modern yet modular and flexible layout that respects heritage while meeting contemporary needs.
Ar. K. Kompyang Widyastuti, ST., MT., IAI, Head of Awards & Competitions for IAI Bali, noted: “This competition is a stage for architects to present on-the-right-track ideas—not necessarily perfect, but bold, contextual, and capable of inspiring new perspectives on tropical living. Bali doesn’t need new building models; it needs new ideas that understand the soul of Bali.”
The winning design will serve as the primary blueprint for the upcoming Natadesa Apartment project, reflecting Jimbaran Hijau’s commitment to community-involved, sustainable development.
More than just a contest, the Natadesa Apartment Architectural Design Competition stands as a testament to a growing movement in Balinese architecture—one that values place, planet, and people as much as design.
