A complete escape is close at hand for those who crave sun, sea and serenity. Arnalaya Beach House is a private tropical retreat designed by architectural wonder Sonny Chan, with its interiors outfitted by design guru Albano Daminato. Chan, who received Singapore’s President’s Design Award in 2011 and is the principal of Chan Sau Yan Associates, is known for adapting his structures to local climate, culture and technology. His modernist roots complement Daminato’s holistic approach to design, which is to meticulously craft environments and products that are unique to each client and location.

Thus, guests at Arnalaya Beach House can be assured of a one-of-a-kind sanctuary that ticks the right boxes in pleasing aesthetic, comfort and convenience. Its location is ideal: overlooking the unspoiled Nelayan Beach, at the far end of Canggu, Indonesia, it is privy to spectacular views. Distractions nearby are aplenty too, from sunset surfing at Echo Beach to a game at the Greg Norman-designed Nirwana Golf Club.

One would be hard-pressed to leave the cosy confines of the five-bedroom residence, however. Timber and terrazzo sculpt the structure, which is surrounded by tropical gardens. Bedrooms boast clean lines and canopied beds, with two rooms flaunting freestanding baths set before huge bay windows from which to enjoy the ocean view.

An open pavilion and 20m salt-water pool invite al fresco dining supervised by a private chef, or the option of a barbecue if complete privacy is on the agenda. Also on the premises are an exclusive tennis court complete with ball launcher and a gym, as well as a fully-equipped spa for an hour or two or three of decadent spoiling.

Feel free to welcome the sunrise on the yoga platform or observe the daily rituals at a nearby fisherman’s temple. Those averse to the heat of the sun can cocoon themselves in the entertainment room, fully equipped with Apple TC, board games, music, art supplies and literary offerings. A staff of 16 is ready to attend to any need, promising a fantasy getaway in which one can do as much or as little as they please. The cost of this tropical escape starts from a cool US$1,795++ (RM6,605) per night.

For more information, visit www.arnalayabeachhouse.com.
This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily, on June 4, 2015.