13) Desa Potato Head – Bali
Nestled within Seminyak’s vibrant creative enclave, just a stone’s throw from the sandy shores, Desa Potato Head transcends the typical boutique hotel experience. A departure from the traditional opulence of heritage beach resorts across the island, it unveils an ever-evolving tapestry featuring contemporary accommodations intertwined with art installations, a lively beach club, sound stages, studios, a library, and distinctive concept stores. This holistic setting attracts a diverse crowd, including globetrotting creatives, hedonists, and sun-kissed locals.
In terms of design, Desa Potato Head is a pinnacle of sophistication. The architectural journey begins at ‘The Womb,’ a bamboo structure where a Balinese water blessing unfolds to the resonating sounds of gongs upon arrival. The facade, adorned with over 1.5 million hand-pressed Balinese temple bricks, seamlessly transitions to a pool embellished with meticulously crafted Batu Sakabumi tiles. Inside the bedrooms, the combination of exposed walls, abundant natural materials, and mid-century furniture evokes a tropical modernism. The beach club itself is ensconced within a captivating curved structure constructed from reclaimed window shutters.
Noteworthy is the brand’s commitment to sustainability, serving as the foundation of the Desa Potato Head ethos. Beyond being a hospitality haven, founder Ronald Akili champions radical innovation with the guiding principle of ‘Good Times Do Good’ influencing every creative decision. As the pioneering Asian hospitality brand to achieve carbon neutrality, a zero-waste philosophy permeates every aspect, from design to cuisine to the offered experiences. The Sweet Potato Lab exemplifies this commitment, fashioning bins, trays, and baskets from recycled plastic and repurposing food waste such as oyster shells. Biodegradable room slippers are crafted from woven palm leaves, offcuts, and coconut husks, epitomizing the brand’s dedication to sustainable practices.
