Villa Boë with concentric geometry overlooks ocean and valleys
Villa Boë by Alexis Dornier at Tampah Hills in Lombok is a project that demonstrates how architecture can respond directly to topography while offering a refined sense of place.
Positioned on one of the highest and steepest lots of the development, the villa follows the natural contours of the site with a vertical stacking of spaces that creates a sculptural presence in the hillside.
Rather than imposing a rigid form, the structure unfolds gradually across multiple levels, appearing less as a conventional home and more as an extension of the surrounding landscape.
At the lowest level of Villa Boë, the garage and main entrance are subtly integrated into the slope, minimizing their visual impact. Moving upward, the communal areas — kitchen, dining, and living — are linked by a sequence of steps and platforms that emphasize continuity.
Higher still, two separate wings provide private sleeping quarters designed for families, while at the very top a circular yoga and meditation pavilion opens onto sweeping views of the hills and ocean. This layered composition ensures a sense of progression, from functional to intimate to contemplative.
The geometric strategy of concentric circles and radial lines underpins the organization of the Villa Boë. Each segment radiates from the natural hilltop, guiding how roofs lift and how volumes interlock.
This geometry fosters a fluid connection between indoors and outdoors, reinforcing the idea of the building as a terraced landscape rather than an isolated object.
The pool extends this principle, flowing outward in alignment with the living areas, its placement softened by subtle changes in elevation.
Materiality is kept understated, with teak wood ceilings, off-white walls, and Palimanan stone floors chosen for durability and harmony with the climate.
These restrained finishes balance warmth with lightness, grounding the villa without overwhelming its setting. References to mid-century architecture can be traced in the way the rooflines frame views, echoing John Lautner’s approach to embedding structures within their environment.
More than a house, Villa Boë is an exercise in architectural clarity and respect for context. Every design decision acknowledges the scale and vastness of the site while maintaining composure. The result is a landmark that sits with quiet confidence at the peak of Tampah Hills, offering its residents both dramatic panoramas and spaces of retreat.
Photography by KIE, with courtesy of Alexis Dornier, shared with permission
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