A tropical home near Ubud, Bali
Architect Livina Cali designed a private residence called Rumah Subak in Bali, drawing inspiration from local irrigation systems and traditional Balinese architecture. The home integrates indoor and outdoor spaces to harmonize with the surrounding UNESCO-listed landscape.
Why it matters
The project highlights the intersection of modern architectural design with cultural preservation and sustainable land use in tropical environments.
Singapore-based architect Livina Cali drew on Balinese pavilions, local materials and the surrounding subak landscape to create Rumah Subak as a home for the present – and eventually, retirement.
Livina Cali designed Rumah Subak as a series of layered spaces, with a tiered pavilion roof, timber structure and brick-clad lower level arranged to follow the terrain. (Photo: Iker Zuniga)
Architect Livina Cali was born in Surabaya, on the Indonesian island of Java, but visited Bali frequently as a child.
“Growing up, Bali always felt familiar. My father travelled there frequently for work and would return with stories, souvenirs and local snacks. As a family, we also made several road trips to Bali,” said Livina, who has lived in Singapore with her husband for 17 years.
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