116 | LUXURY LIFESTYLE AWARDS GUIDE 2021
INTERVIEW
Interview with Uira, Founder and Project Director at Artalenta It’s no secret that architecture is more than drawings, buildings, and walls. Each outstanding architect or a team of architects have their unique formula of perfection in work. The Bali-based architecture & planning company Artalenta’s unique approach and commitment to excellence in the industry made it the second consecutive year of multi-award winner of Luxury Lifestyle Awards in the categories of Best Luxury Interior Design Studio, Best Luxury Architect Studio, and Best Luxury Architecture (Single Residential Project) for ‘Casa Saba’ in Indonesia. The essential role in the success of Artalenta is played by its founder, Indonesian architect, principal, and project director Pak Uira. We talked with Uira about his career and architectural vision.
To me, architectural design is an integrated set of solutions to a design challenge. In a great project, architectural design manages to blend craftsmanship and engineering
REAL ESTATE
Luxury Lifestyle Awards: Could you tell us about yourself? Who is Uira, the mastermind of Artalenta? Uira: I am an Indonesian and was born on the island of Java. I am now based in Bali because I like living close to nature. In a glance, my personality type is more towards an INTJ-A person. I am a Strategic person yet imaginative and decisive, ambitious, and curious about everything but remain focused. LLA: How and why did you decide to start a career in architecture? Uira: I am highly inspired by art, engineering, technology, and geometry. I started a career in architecture because it is the best canvas to put all those important aspects and values together. To me, architecture is a sophisticated practice of designing and producing an expression of a lifestyle. LLA: How would you describe your architectural vision? Uira: An architectural vision aims to physically produce the soul of a space and uplifts you, when you are inside it. For me, architectural vision cannot be described, it can only be felt. The poetry of it all is the implementation of form and function to my architectural vision. Our priority is to deliver the concept and make it into reality. LLA: Does local culture impact your work? How are the Indonesian traditions reflected in your professional approach? Uira: “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,” a phrase meaning “Unity in Diversity,” is at the core of Artalenta. It also happens to be Indonesia’s official motto. Even though Indonesia is vast and distinct, we must celebrate the tremendous diversity of cultures and talents. We collaborate with local expertise and techniques to impact our work and unite them into a signature style. LLA: What is your definition of architectural design? Uira: To me, architectural design is an integrated set of solutions to a design challenge. In a great project, architectural design manages to blend craftsmanship and engineering. I liken it with the marriage between your left brain and your right brain. My team and I oversee a project from inception to completion, including interior, structural, engineering, and MEP. We provide as many design elements & perspectives to create an all-around great building. LLA: What types of projects does Artalenta specialize in? What do you call an interesting project? Uira: Artalenta’s projects range from luxury residences and F&B to hospitality projects.
