Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia

Have you ever laid eyes on a setting or destination that compels you to believe that you have found utopia?  Take a look at these images and you might understand how it happened to me this past week.

An oasis of peace, space and luxurious Balinese attention, ONE ELEVEN RESORT exists with the notion of time at a standstill.  Only nine villas are nestled in the midst of Seminyak, Bali — a bustling holiday town. Secluded by a vertical garden of a million pots of flora, this sprawling 5000 square meter property is an exercise in understated luxury.  A Japanese sleek, minimalist design pervades throughout with the use of natural wood and stone.  Public spaces provide a generous space with simple but imaginative landscaping.  There are only 9 accommodations that include 350 square meters of living space with a 14-meter long pool and a 35 square meter spa gazebo for each.  I could move in … as is … and not change a thing!

Architects and interior designers behind ONE ELEVEN were Interior Architect Shigemasa Noi and Mr. Naoya Matsumoto.  Merging the value of empty spaces and the quality and respect of the elements, ONE ELEVEN brings together the exterior and interior by removing all unnecessary walls and replacing them with floor-to ceiling glass in the bedroom and bathroom – delivering a unique design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing to the eye.

Shiro Sushi Bar was created for ONE ELEVEN by Architect Shigemasa Noi — one that resulted in a wondrously intricate design of woodwork throughout that allows diners to feel at ease amongst the natural warmth of raw material that conveys the taste of what Japanese cuisine is all about.  To execute this work of art, Balinese craftsmen were required to work from a color-coded plan to assure that each wooden block was accurately placed.  The possibility of irreversible mistakes made the selection and placement of wood crucial to getting it right from the inception to completion.

The name Shiro and its ambience converge with the essence of Japanese flavors and the seasonal ingredients of Bali. Chef Shinya Kuwazoe is known for the highest standards associated with the preparation of sushi with the freshest ingredients, remaining true to his roots, and always transporting one straight to the heart of Osaka.

Kudos to the owners and architects of ONE ELEVEN for having the insight to blend Japanese function with the magnetic spiritualism that Bali is known for in such a visually pleasing minimalist design.