Design–build

Bali Aga Design-Build is a unique approach to architecture and construction that integrates the traditional Balinese architectural style and construction methods with modern design-build practices. This approach emphasizes sustainability, community involvement, and the use of local materials, while also incorporating the latest in green building technologies and design innovations. The Bali Aga, or "original Balinese," people are known for their distinctive architectural styles, which have been preserved through generations. The design-build approach in this context aims to maintain these traditional values while adapting to contemporary needs and environmental considerations.

Overview

The concept of Design-Build in architecture refers to a project delivery system where the design and construction services are contracted by a single entity known as the design-builder or design-build contractor. This method contrasts with the traditional design-bid-build approach, where design and construction are split into separate contracts. The Bali Aga Design-Build approach takes this concept further by incorporating traditional Balinese architectural elements and techniques, which are characterized by their harmony with nature, intricate carvings, and open-plan structures that promote airflow and natural cooling.

Key Features

• Sustainability: Emphasizes the use of local, renewable resources and sustainable building practices. This includes the use of bamboo, alang-alang (thatch), and other locally sourced materials that have a low environmental impact.
• Community Involvement: Projects often involve local artisans, builders, and craftsmen, ensuring that the construction process supports the local economy and preserves traditional skills.
• Cultural Preservation: Designs are deeply influenced by Balinese cultural and spiritual beliefs, incorporating elements such as the tripartite division of space (Bhur, Bwah, Swah) and the orientation towards sacred mountains or landmarks.
• Modern Adaptations: While traditional in spirit, Bali Aga Design-Build projects are not averse to modern innovations. Solar panels, passive cooling techniques, and other green technologies are often integrated into designs.

Challenges and Considerations

One of the main challenges in Bali Aga Design-Build projects is balancing tradition with modernity. Ensuring that buildings meet contemporary standards for comfort, safety, and efficiency, while still respecting and preserving traditional Balinese architectural principles, requires careful planning and design. Additionally, the increasing scarcity of some traditional materials and the impact of tourism on local communities and resources are ongoing concerns.

Examples

Notable examples of Bali Aga Design-Build projects include sustainable resorts, private villas, and community centers that cater to both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Balinese experience. These projects often serve as showcases for the potential of integrating traditional architectural styles with modern building techniques.

Future Directions

The future of Bali Aga Design-Build lies in its ability to adapt to changing environmental, social, and economic conditions. As interest in sustainable and culturally sensitive design grows globally, the principles underlying the Bali Aga approach could influence design-build projects in other regions, promoting a more holistic and community-oriented approach to architecture and construction.