When I heard about the Villa Kotak concept I literally couldn’t ‘contain’ myself. Another upcoming small villa retreat in Selong Balanak is embracing modular style living and giving it a refreshing new spin.

With a container concept, it’s only natural to expect a clinical minimalist interior without much character but Villa Kotak completely debunks those preconceptions. It is an artfully crafted smart villa that really feels like a cosy home. Amid the splashy interiors and artwork, you’ll soon forget you are staying in an old shipping container.

The villa forms a L-shape using 40-foot and 20-foot containers linked by a covered open air space. This forms the villa’s main social hub – a spacious dining and outdoor living space. There is a compelling contrast between the whitewashed and corrugated container walls and the furnishings in vibrant red and orange hues. There is ample space to sink into the sofa with a cool cocktail and a good book, and enjoy intimate dining. The open fronted aspect ensures cool breezes and you are just steps away from a refreshing dip in the pool.

The lounge area is fringed by the two bedrooms which are accessed on either side through sliding glass doors. The bedrooms are incredibly cosy and each has its own unique personality with colourful furnishings and wall art. An ideal quiet haven for an afternoon snooze. It also boasts a spacious open air bathroom set around natural stonework.

As well as a spa-inspired bedroom, the main 40-foot container also features an integrated living room and fully featured all-steel kitchen.  There is an ingenious use of space, texture and colour in the living room that really gives it a homely ambience. There are virtually no outward signs you are sitting inside a shipping container. There are more autumnal shades of red, orange and brown, a comfy sofa and an eclectic blend of art adorning the walls. It’s a delicious fusion of modern and retro style.

Villa Kotak sits in a compact enclosure with an inviting swimming pool beside a lush green lawn. It is just a leisurely 600-metre stroll to the famed arc of white sand at Selong Balanak. On-site services include a daily bakery breakfast, a private car-for-hire, while spa treatments and yoga sessions can be arranged.

The symmetrical design of ‘cargotecture’ really optimises the available space. While container living isn’t exactly new, even in Selong Balanak, this is one of the few that has got the open plan, integrated villa lifestyle down to a fine art. Yes, it really is a holiday home that thinks outside the box. Enjoy a stay at Villa Kotak and you are doing your bit for the environment. This is arguably the ultimate in upcycled living and they are earthquake resistant too.

Villa Kotak officially opens in May 2020.

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