About the Project
Located in tropical Indonesia, this three-story, 817 m² (8,794 sq.ft) residence was created for a large family practicing Zen Buddhism. Studia 54’s team of over 70 professionals developed a holistic concept that unites Eastern philosophy, refined aesthetics, and contemporary luxury.
Every element — from the architecture to the custom lighting and art objects — was designed to reflect harmony with nature and the balance of the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. The result is a space that breathes calm, order, and quiet sophistication — the very essence of “quiet luxury.”
Step Inside the Design
The interior follows the principles of Feng Shui, ensuring the free flow of positive Qi energy throughout the home. Despite the challenges of the tropical climate — the enclosed site, limited shade, and high humidity — the design achieves comfort and serenity through materials, light, and air circulation.
The residence was inspired by Studia 54’s previous work on the Zaryadye Gardens apart-hotel in Moscow, particularly its contrasts of color and texture. Yet this project finds its own rhythm — deeply meditative, tactile, and luminous.
Hall
The double-height entrance hall greets residents and guests with an atmosphere of noble restraint. A dark wood-paneled wall with intricate milling expresses the life energy of wood and earth.
Italian Poltrona Frau leather armchairs and a Eichholtz marble table set the tone of understated luxury. Above them, a bespoke chandelier — inspired by willow leaves — gently sways in the breeze, diffusing a warm, golden light that animates the space.
Living Room
The main living area, designed for gatherings of up to 20 guests, is divided into two lounge zones. One forms a cozy TV area, while the other is dedicated to music — featuring a synthesizer by the window where the eldest daughter performs.
Soft Minotti sofas and natural textiles create a sense of comfort and intimacy, while a Lasvit chandelier made of molten glass symbolizes the energy of fire.
Fresh greenery and rounded-leaf plants infuse the room with vitality and positive energy.
Art Objects
Two striking art pieces define the living room.
A sculpture by Ondřej Oliva, featuring mollusk shells and inspired by bioluminescent Indonesian seas, represents the living connection between earth and the cosmos.
A trio of sculptural forms reminiscent of rocks or glacial ice captures the essence of natural energy suspended in stillness.
Blue accent chairs complement the ensemble, reinforcing a sense of tranquility and depth.
Grand Hall
At the heart of the grand hall stands a dynamic sculptural installation — a frozen wave crafted from tinted fiberglass. The base mirrors rippling water, merging motion and stillness.
Following Bagua principles, the hall’s southeast orientation symbolizes wealth and prosperity, emphasized by a golden frog figurine at the sculpture’s base.
A marble staircase with brass railings and leather detailing leads gracefully to the upper floors, softly illuminated by petal-shaped sconces.
Dining Area
Designed for formal gatherings, the dining room embodies balance through color: green for growth, red for energy, gold for stability, and blue for calm.
A round table for 15 with a hidden rotating mechanism — inspired by traditional Chinese dining — allows effortless sharing and conversation.
A hand-painted screen, adorned with red blossoms in the Huaniao hua style (“Flowers and Birds”), serves both as a Feng Shui protector and a work of art, reinforcing the aura of prosperity and unity.
Zen Garden — “Dry Mountains and Waters”
At the core of the home lies a Japanese rock garden — a contemplative space inspired by Zen philosophy.
Raked sand waves symbolize the passage of time; still stones embody strength and eternity.
A stone bench invites reflection, offering a place for stillness and meditation — a retreat for the mind and spirit.
Koi Pond
Adjacent to the inner garden, a tranquil koi pond forms the emotional center of the home.
Soft cascades of water shimmer in the tropical light, while koi fish — symbols of strength, endurance, and good fortune — glide beneath the surface.
This element brings both movement and serenity, enriching the residence with the rhythm of flowing water.
Kitchen
The kitchen and dining area for six blend warmth and practicality. A central island functions as both a workspace and a social hub.
To counteract the enclosed boundaries of the site, Studia 54 introduced stone and ivy walls to bring natural softness and light into the interior.
Layered lighting — brass chandeliers, column lights, and sconces — ensures comfort and elegance throughout the day.
Guest Bathroom
The guest bathroom introduces a bold shift in palette — a refined play of dark tones and metal.
A wall of multi-veneer wood illuminated by sconces creates a gradient effect that transforms the surface into a glowing art piece.
Durable dark porcelain stoneware enhances the modern aesthetic, ensuring longevity and practicality for humid conditions.
Essence
Across 817 m², this Indonesian residence by Studia 54 is a meditation on balance, materiality, and emotional stillness.
Guided by Feng Shui and the five natural elements, every line, color, and object works in harmony — forming a sanctuary of serenity, energy, and enlightenment.