ESA International, Bali-based architecture studio to create brand new luxury retreat in Labuan Bajo, Flores, inspired by the natural and cultural heritage of the destination
Sudamala Resorts, the art-inspired Indonesian boutique resort company, has appointed award-winning architecture studio ESA International to create its latest barefoot beachfront retreat, Sudamala Suites & Villas, Komodo, Labuan Bajo.
Based in Bali, ESA International has developed an exceptional portfolio of projects in Indonesia, including some of the archipelago’s most distinctive hotels and resorts. The company has worked with major international luxury hotel brands such as Four Seasons, Hyatt and COMO Hotels & Resorts, and it also conceived two other Sudamala resorts: Sudamala Suites & Villas, Sanur, which opened in 2011, and Sudamala Suites & Villas, Lombok in 2013.
Scheduled to start welcoming guests in Q2 2020, Sudamala Suites & Villas, Komodo will blend seamlessly into its stunning surroundings, on the spectacular west coast of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The resort’s sensitive design will reflect the classical architectural style of this ancient region, with a concept that showcases traditional building techniques, local materials, authentic art and natural fabrics.
Labuan Bajo is a former fishing village that used to be visited by the Bajo tribe, a seafaring group from Sulawesi which finally settled in the area and assimilated with the local people. Their influence can be discovered at Sudamala Suites & Villas, Komodo, which blends the native style of village dwellings with the dramatic thatched conical roofs that are unique to this part of Indonesia.
Facing the beach and blessed with breathtaking views of the Labuan Bajo Strait, the resort exudes a deep sense of calm and freedom. It respects local wisdom and captures the spirit of the island, while helping to preserve the environment. Native trees have been preserved to encourage wildlife, provide shade and ensure a wonderfully tranquil ambience.
The 68 suites and 16 villas reveals rustic beach-chic interiors combined with contemporary comforts and modern technology. The Garden Suites promise private balconies overlooking the lush landscape, while the Beachfront and Sea View Suites command exceptional views of the Labuan Bajo Strait, and the luxurious Private Pool Villas provide expansive courtyards, alfresco pavilions and inviting outdoor pools.
The restaurant allows guests to dine in nature, kissed by the gentle sea breeze, while the serene Sudajiva Spa features four double treatment rooms and a soothing spa pool, and the fitness centre houses the latest equipment. Alternatively, guests can plunge into the seafront swimming pool, explore the underwater world from Aqura Dive, which has its own training pool, or simply slip off their shoes and stroll along the soft sandy beach.
“We are delighted to work with ESA International once again to create Sudamala Suites & Villas, Komodo, Labuan Bajo – a one-of-a-kind resort that depicts the charm and beauty of its destination. We want to introduce international-standard hospitality to Labuan Bajo, while also promoting the region’s rich cultural heritage. ESA’s expert team of architects have embraced our vision of creating the first true resort in the region’s hottest destination, and we look forward to presenting this outstanding property to the world in 2020,” said Emily Subrata, Director of Sudamala Resorts.
ESA International has won several high-profile awards, including the “World’s Best Apartment” title at the 2012 International Property Awards in London. It also received the 2016 IAI Bali Award for the Sudamala Suites & Villas, Sanur.
For more information, please visit sudamalaresorts.com or email [email protected]