Named for its defining architectural element, Dome is a new restaurant within Bali’s ever-popular Desa Potato Head resort. Joining its rich offering of hospitality and cultural amenities, which includes a beach club, 225-room hotel, and spa, the OMA-designed haunt reflects the sprawling destination’s earthy aesthetic and embodies its eco-conscious mandate all while introducing a tinge of urbane refinement.
“We wanted the space to be inviting, a place for connecting with like-minded individuals, and to be inspired by all the reference material around you,” says Isaac Larose, Desa Potato Head creative director. “The architecture is so futuristic, so we wanted to break it down with natural elements. If you look closely, you can see the imperfections in the shades of the reclaimed furniture. We decided to celebrate these imperfections rather than hide them, just like we do with our wines and produce.”
Upcycled wood and antique rugs delineate different dining and communal areas, such as a well-stocked library and lounge, with ample seating that includes custom OMA-designed sofas. But it’s the aquamarine blue epoxy floor and light fixture-anchoring columns that add the aforementioned sophisticated touch. This contrasting colorway reflects the ocean outside especially when illuminated by large organically-shaped skylights.
Evoking the underlying but not overtly kitsch retro-futuristic theme that carries throughout are a series of cistern-like spaces, the kind one might imagine finding on the set of a Mad Max film. Cylindrical forms aren’t just present in the Buckminster Fuller Dome Home-inspired enclosure – housing a more intimate dining area – but also in the open-plan, fully in the round and slightly sunken-in, bar.
Integrated into this seamless staging is top-notch technology. Vintage JBL speaker stacks and vinyl DJ sets perfectly blend-in and accentuate the overall contrasted yet cohesive design scheme. Across the eclectic assemblage of finishes, sleek and live edged elements, a certain textured tactility and neotenic geometry comes together harmoniously; rendering what could very well be an austere environment into one that is inviting and appetizing.
Tying everything together is award-winning chef Diego Recarte’s menu, which is also a mix of refined and rugged. Fusion South American and European dishes are created strictly using locally sourced organic produce and other staples. The dynamic menu highlights ingredients from organic farmers and local producers, while the wine bar focuses on consciously produced natural and biodynamic wines.
For more information on the Dome Restaurant at the Desa Potato Head Resort, click here. To see more projects from OMA, visit oma.com.
Photography courtesy of Desa Potato Head Bali.
