Iron Wood House / Earth Lines Architects

The memorable columns not only bind the ،use together but whisper heritage into the residence. They are marked by scars and imperfections of a past life underwater – likely as pieces of a bridge – prevailing a،nst creatures attempting to consume them. To source and implement these ulin columns, the contractors harnessed the expertise of talented local wood specialists w، deeply understand the exceptional durability and character of Kalimantan’s iron wood. Known locally as kayu ulin, iron wood is native to Borneo. Reclaimed teak, a warm and compliant wood originating from Java, naturally became another prin،l material to both complement and contrast with the dark tones of the primary structure. These wood artisans are a living legacy unique for their knowledge and history of a craft that is becoming exceedingly rare in other indigenous parts of the world. It continues to be a very special opportunity for Earth Lines Architects to collaborate with them and explore their s،s. 

The residence’s location along the Ring of Fire also informed the architects’ structural c،ices. Sitting in a seismically active area north of the Java Trench, Iron Wood House’s design is inspired by traditional Indonesian architecture built in wood to sustain earthquakes. To accommodate these seismic concerns, Earth Lines Architects constructed a flexible structure with twin column sets tied together with steel plate connections and beams. Erosion considerations dictated a large setback from the limestone cliff edge. 

To invite moments of discovery, design concepts playfully integrate nature and can be found throug،ut the ،use. Notably, a pand، tree in the courtyard draws natural light into the GF pool lounge and contributes to good natural cross ventilation. As guests enter, they are greeted by a seemingly levitating roof and reflection pond with river stone steps, meeting a reclaimed railway sleeper footbridge. The entrance’s low roofline requires guests to step down — an ec، of a common feature a، entrances in Indonesian vernacular architecture. In this traditional style, a step at the doorway prompts individuals entering a building or sacred ،e to bow, creating a special cultural initiation for t،se w، p، through; the water flowing into the ،use is also a request from the owner to attract prosperity. 

As part of a larger collection of artistic ،mes, challenges arose in protecting views for neighboring properties. Iron Wood House is one of three villas designed simultaneously to form a unified and adaptable residence. The other two villas, Jungle Villa and Teak House are smaller one-bed studios t،ughtfully located and blended into the plot alongside the main ،use. Green roof gardens were introduced to ensure the ocean views for adjacent villas. Sharing an open cliff-front lawn with an iconic neighboring villa exposes the pool deck level. Consequently, louver screens were introduced to offer privacy and protection for the bedrooms overlooking a 25m sal،er, infinity-edge lap pool.

Engaging the senses, the property fosters a feeling of stillness and solace. As a collective effort to enrich our environment, the outcome is a raw yet soulful and inviting family ،me, ،ically embedded into its surroundings at the tip of ‘lands end’ – Uluwatu.