Step into a world where luxury meets local charm at Bali's Further Hotel, a unique oasis that challenges the traditional resort experience. This innovative concept, designed by MORQ and Studio Wenden, offers a refreshing take on hospitality, blending seamlessly into the vibrant fabric of Pererenan, a seaside village.
The brainchild of Claudio Cuccu and his wife, Martine McGrath, along with co-founders Simon Digby and Tim Wiswell, Further Hotel embodies their vision of a "diffused hotel" experience. In an era of overdevelopment, the team aims to showcase a model for hotels to integrate harmoniously with Bali's existing infrastructure, encouraging guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and support local businesses.
"We built Further during a challenging time for Bali," shares Cuccu, a Rome native who has called the island home for two decades. "Our goal was to celebrate Balinese culture and community while elevating the hospitality experience. The diffused concept invites guests to live and connect with the village, going beyond mere observation."
Architecturally, MORQ draws inspiration from traditional Balinese crafts, unifying the four buildings with facades crafted from handmade clay bricks sourced from nearby Tabanan. These bricks, randomly placed, create a lattice sunshade, casting playful patterns of light and shadow across the windows.
"The interplay of light and shadow is a central theme in our work," explains MORQ co-founder Andrea Quagliola. "It adds a dynamic element to the spaces, creating a sense of discovery and spatial depth as the day progresses."
The hotel's crown jewel is its rooftop pool, a hidden sanctuary located on the shaded rooftop of the largest building. "Most roof terraces offer expansive views, but Further's terrace is designed as an intimate rooftop courtyard," Quagliola elaborates. "It frames the tropical sky and water, with hospitality spaces that retreat into the comforting shadows."
Further Hotel's culinary offerings include Portion, a casual poolside restaurant, Bar Vera downstairs, and St Ali, a coffee bar located in one of the other buildings. The terracotta theme continues into the 25 bedroom suites, designed by Studio Wenden, featuring sunken beds and furniture crafted from cast-iron, timber, and travertine.
Some suites open onto lush courtyards, with select rooms offering outdoor baths. A dedicated gallery hosts a rotating program of exhibitions, and contemporary photography adorns the walls throughout the buildings.
The hotel also boasts a shop featuring Object, a "sensory-inspired" brand developed by McGrath and Studio Wenden's Amy Wenden, and Oaken Lab, a perfumery that has created a custom scent for the hotel.
Further Hotel's opening coincides with Bali's growing reputation as a design destination, thanks to initiatives like the Jia Curated design festival and the eco-conscious Potato Head resort. Other recent additions to the island's hospitality scene include Bi Design House in Canggu and the Tri Hita Karana Tower on Nyanyi beach.
As Bali continues to evolve, Further Hotel stands as a testament to the power of design to enhance and celebrate local culture, offering a unique and immersive experience for its guests.
