Bali is kind of a big deal for Aussies, right? Right.
Well now it’s about to get even better, with a hot new hotel opening in January 2016.
From the people that brought you the world famous Potato Head Beach Club are now bringing you The Katamama, a glorious addition to the Bali hospitality scene, nestled in Seminyak.
The Katamama has been created by PTT Family using ‘home’ as the central focus, with all aspects of the design and experience based on this philosophy.
Owner & entrepreneur behind PTT Family, Ronald Akili, spoke to Travel Weekly recently to explain the concept behind his latest venture.
“We want the local community to be involved in everything we do, from the Indonesian craftsmanship to the local artworks,” Akili said.
“We want to present the community that shares our DNA.”
Akili said the foundations of the hotel were “culturally-led”, explaining that it will showcase “the Indonesian contemporary angle, from fashion and art to music and design”.
Targeting a younger crowd fascinated by the unique elements of another culture, there are a number of features that make the Katamama stand out.
“We are avoiding the typical resort program,” Akili told TW.
From replacing the lobby with a chic bar to offering fashion and design programs for guests, this isn’t your ordinary hotel.
“We followed the concept of simple material and simple ideas and turning that into something dramatic,” Akili said.
The hotel is drawing attention to itself by collaborating with other interesting partners, with the dining experience courtesy of Frank Camorra’s MoVida.
Opening in early December 2015, MoVida X Potato Head restaurant will be a unique collaboration that combines MoVida’s Spanish cuisine and Potato Head’s design expression, as well as MoVida’s first international venture.
Also within the hotel will be the Akademi bar, created by award winning mixologist Dre Masso, as well as curated artworks, handpicked furniture and vintage collectables selected from Akili’s personal collection.
Unique to the hotel will be the One-Bedroom Penthouses; at 268 sqm these two storey suites will offer internal access to a rooftop garden, a spa bath and rain shower, and dining and lounge areas complete with their own bar.
The Presidential Penthouse Suite will include a spacious two bedrooms and a private rooftop garden with sweeping ocean views.
The hotel finishes will utilise Indonesian materials such as Balinese bricks, teak, hand-made tiles from Java and terrazzo made on site.
“We are very different to other resorts,” Akili said. “There’s nothing else like it.”
And to prove it, we’ve got some very special glimpses inside The Katamama ahead of its opening. Enjoy.
