Looking EAST

Tucked away on a hillside along the south coast of the Indonesian island, Somewhere Lombok is an unspoiled retreat with communal areas offering unparalleled views of Are Guling Bay, a world-renowned surf spot, and 20 standalone villas featuring mini plunge pools overlooking the lush greenery of the valley and village below. Everything from the building materials to the décor is regionally sourced and produced, in keeping with the overarching sustainability ethos of the young Gontard sisters, who have Indonesian roots but grew up in Hong Kong.

The Design Hotels member’s architectural concept was developed in collaboration with SWDesign and Hong Kong’s Eight Partnership. The central communal space features an open-plan indoor area with reception, restaurant, bar, and lounge, as well as an outdoor lawn and infinity pool overlooking the bay. With input from sustainability consultancy Eco Mantra, public spaces and villas are oriented towards the south to maximise natural light, and boast ventilation, while high thermal performance building materials, onsite rain harvesting, greywater recycling, and reflective building finishes help create strong green credentials.

Each serviced villa features locally produced goods, including natural marble trays by Maharani Decoration and linen bed skirts by La Luna Linen, with walls adorned with Valia’s own photography of Lombok’s people, places, and landscapes. There's local-produced bespoke furniture, and marble bathrooms with amenities by Sensatia Botanicals, an Indonesian brand known for vegan, reef safe, and environmentally friendly products. somewherelombok.com - NICK

WALTON