How to Renovate a Bali Villa Without Losing Its Soul
By Des Res Bali
Quick note before you dive in
We’re not contractors, architects, or accountants. What follows is based on common scenarios and what we see every day living here. Think of it as inspiration, not instruction. Always talk to the pros before you start knocking down walls.
Why “Soul” Matters
A Balinese home isn’t just concrete and tiles. It’s light, air, gardens that creep into your living room, and wood that’s been carved by hand. It’s character.
Done right, a renovation keeps that character alive — quirks, creaks, and all. Done wrong? You risk ending up with one more bland white box that looks like it could be in Mykonos or Mexico City. (And Bali doesn’t need more of those, thanks.)
Tip 1: Work With What’s Already There
That weathered carved door? Strip and oil it.
The mossy stone walls? Clean them, don’t replace them.
The terrazzo floor? Polish, don’t cover.
Half the charm of Bali homes is in the details you can’t fake. Saving what’s salvageable not only keeps the soul intact — it’s also sustainable and usually cheaper than starting from scratch.
Tiles and paint are fun. Plumbing and wiring? Not so much. But the fastest way to kill a vibe is a blackout mid-dinner or a bathroom flood after the first rain.
Invest in drainage, electrics, and water systems before you splurge on imported taps. You’ll thank yourself later.
Tip 3: Mix Old and New (On Purpose)
Want to add a sleek infinity pool? Great — balance it with traditional landscaping. Love those steel-framed windows? Perfect — pair them with locally made rattan or reclaimed wood.
It’s a yin-yang thing. Lean too modern and you’ll lose the warmth. Lean too traditional and it’ll feel stuck in time. Find the sweet spot.
Tip 4: Choose Designers Who Get Context
We love the bold ideas international architects bring, but without local knowledge, things can fall flat fast.
The best projects here come from collaboration — a creative import plus Balinese craftsmanship. The result feels fresh but still rooted in place.
Tip 5: Remember — Renovation Beats New Builds
Overdevelopment is a real issue in Bali. Reviving an old place uses less land, less concrete, and respects the story already in the bones of the house.
A sensitive renovation isn’t just good design — it’s good manners.
Final Thoughts
A home in Bali with soul isn’t perfect. The doors might stick. The walls might “breathe” a little too much in rainy season. But that’s the point.
Respect what’s already there, upgrade what really matters, and add your own touches without bulldozing the spirit out of it. That’s how you end up with a house that feels like Bali — not just another pin on Pinterest.
