A Mesmerizing Figure 8 House Defies Gravity in Balinese Jungle


In the heart of Bali’s lush jungle, a mesmerizing architectural structure has taken root, challenging conventional notions of residential living. The Loop, a jaw-dropping spiral house in Pajangan, Bali, has redefined the essence of living amidst a tropical paradise, thanks to architect Alexis Dornier, with the help of interior designer Silvia Fairman.

The design behind The Loop began with a desire to eschew the ordinary. The simple design brief – “We have lived in boxes our entire life – we now seek the opposite” – allowed Dornier to break free from architectural norms and create a space that captures the essence of freedom. Leaving the typical box behind, Dornier dreamt up a design that defies gravity, embraces fluidity, and invites inhabitants to live life on their own terms.

exterior view from top of modern spiral house in jungle

partial exterior view of modern house with spiral wood and concrete design with a pool

Inspired by the beauty of the natural world and motivated by the challenge of pushing architectural boundaries, The Loop’s design concept took shape as a figure 8 spiral. This innovative and daring approach offers a continuous, ever-changing experience, allowing residents to explore its unique radial design. It’s a journey into uncharted territory where the house itself becomes a work of art, transcending the confines of conventional living.

partial view of modern house with spiral wood and concrete design with a pool

One of the project’s most remarkable achievements lies in its seamless integration with the surrounding jungle. Carefully chosen materials such as concrete, wood, and natural stone effortlessly connect the structure with the greenery, creating an environment that exudes sophistication and modernity while respecting the jungle it calls home.

Aerial view of modern spiral concrete house surrounded by woods

interior view of modern house with spiral design in wood and concrete

But The Loop wasn’t without its challenges. Bending materials in two dimensions and solving complicated geometrical situations required close planning with skilled artisans. It was a journey that tested the boundaries of architectural possibilities, resulting in a unique and captivating house.

interior view of modern house with spiral design in wood and concrete

Throughout the process, the collaboration between the architects and their clients was key. The homeowners actively participated in material selection and design decisions, fostering a connection with the home and a feeling of shared ownership.

interior view in kitchen of modern house with spiral design in wood and concrete

interior view of modern house with spiral design in wood and concrete

The house itself, appears to float above the ground on a steep slope, blending seamlessly with the jungle’s natural environment. Careful landscaping blurs the lines between the structure and nature, transforming it into “a living entity that symbolizes unity with the surroundings.”

view of Balinese shower with green/blue tile

bedroom interior with curved exterior walls and canopy bed

Strategically laid out, each room in The Loop offers breathtaking views and a sense of discovery as one moves throughout. From bedrooms to communal spaces, every corner of the house becomes a tranquil spot, immersing the residents into the surrounding serene beauty.

bedroom interior with curved exterior walls and canopy bed

bathroom interior looking out big windows to jungle

interior shot of modern house with spiral concrete and wood design

bedroom interior with curved exterior walls and canopy bed

interior shot of modern house with spiral concrete and wood design

interior shot of modern house with spiral concrete and wood design

covered wooden walkway below concrete house surrounded by greenery

covered wooden walkway below concrete house surrounded by greenery

partial exterior view of modern concrete house in jungle

exterior evening view of modern concrete and wood house with spiral design and swimming pool

exterior evening view of modern concrete and wood house with spiral design and swimming pool

daytime view of modern concrete house surrounded by trees

Photography by KIE.

Caroline Williamson is Editor-in-Chief of Design Milk. She has a BFA in photography from SCAD and can usually be found searching for vintage wares, doing New York Times crossword puzzles in pen, or reworking playlists on Spotify.





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