Bumi Kinar: A Lotus-Inspired Sanctuary in Ubud

Tonny Wirawan Suriadjaja crafts a tranquil retreat blending luxury and nature

Bumi Kinar, designed by Tonny Wirawan Suriadjaja, stands as a testament to architectural harmony, drawing inspiration from the gentle curvature of the lotus leaf—a symbol of purification in Mandarin culture. This award-winning hotel and resort, completed in March 2024, is nestled on the serene cliffside of Ubud, Bali, offering guests an immersive experience in both luxury and nature.

The resort comprises eight one-bedroom villas, two suites, and a striking clubhouse, all carefully positioned to minimize environmental impact. Perched on a hilly terrain bordered by the Petanu River, Bumi Kinar is enveloped by Ubud’s tranquil forest, providing sweeping vistas and a sense of seclusion. The architecture’s curvilinear lines mirror the cyclical nature of the lotus, creating a fluid connection between built form and the surrounding landscape.

Guests are welcomed through a journey that begins at the main verandah of the neighboring Bumi Sekembang, guided by parallel curved walls to Bumi Kinar’s gallery foyer. Here, lush tropical gardens and curated art exhibitions foster a creative and communal atmosphere. The journey continues through hidden accesses to the North and South Wing Suites, culminating at an outdoor elliptical reflecting pond that mirrors the forest and offers views of Mount Agung.

Sustainability is at the core of Bumi Kinar’s design. Villas are elevated above the terrain, connected by a 600-meter floating rampway that doubles as a jogging track and viewing platform. This approach preserves the ecosystem below and ensures a cool, breathable environment within the villas. The use of porous lava stone and green roofs enhances insulation, while mature trees are retained and new greenery is integrated, blending minimalistic modernity with the vibrant tropical forest.

Bumi Kinar also serves as an artistic haven, with spaces like the Bale Banyu Gallery and The BuKi Gallery functioning as creative hubs for guests to exchange ideas and draw inspiration from nature. The resort’s design is a continuation of traditional heritage, seamlessly intertwined with contemporary ideals, making it a unique destination for tranquility, adventure, and healing.

Recognized with the Bronze A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2025, Bumi Kinar exemplifies the fusion of art, science, and sustainability. It invites guests to embark on a journey where every curve tells a story and every view is a masterpiece, embodying a new architectural poetry in the heart of Bali.

Bumi Kinar’s thoughtful integration of design, environment, and spirituality positions it as a sanctuary for those seeking renewal amidst nature’s embrace—a place where paradise becomes a way of life.