The Alila Solo in Surakarta, Central Java, claims an iconic position in the city skyline with its impressive form and cutting-edge architecture. Designed by award-winning architect Budiman Hendropurnomo of Denton Corker Marshall, Alila Solo represents a modern urban resort set within a city of ancient traditions. Hendropurnomo’s distinctive design philosophy incorporates visually stimulating buildings, luxuriously elegant interiors and technology-driven facilities.
Soaring to new heights
Eight towers of accommodation surround the main hotel to create a new backdrop in the Surakarta skyline. Ranging from 11 to 27 storeys, the buildings rise high above the city like modern giants in a predominantly low-rise neighbourhood. Cladding in a natural stone that has been cut into small pieces creates an intricate, distinctive texture on the outside.
“I believe that when architecture reaches supra scale that it should cease to be a mere building but should take on a more sculptural quality and become part of the landscape elements of the cityscape,” states lead architect Hendropunomo. “Alila Solo sets a new standard of elegant style and architectural expression in Indonesia.”
The towers, each painted in different colours to mark their individuality, are positioned to create a star-like pattern of interior corridors and allow natural sunlight into the bathrooms. Guest rooms rise from level seven, offering wonderful views of the ancient city and the dramatic valleys and volcanoes of the surrounding region for all guests.
Javanese inspiration
The design-led rooms and suites at Alila Solo combine contemporary style with subtle Java nuances. High-tech amenities are combined effortlessly with touches of Javanese spirit. Each room inspires relaxation and calm with a soothing colour arrangement of gentle hues and showcases an exclusively commissioned batik mural.
The interiors of the hotel feature a refined stone palette of marble, travertine and granite juxtaposed against soft shades of pale wood and Javanese highlights. Most stunning of all is the monumental floating batik sculpture featured in the striking lobby. Conceptualised by Hendropunomo, the near 50-metre long suspended artwork incorporates thin aluminium plates with canvas paintings depicting Javanese wayang characters. Weaving the authentic traditions of the ancient city with modern design, the lobby sets the tone for a distinctively stylish and unique stay.
Java aesthetics continue through to the dining areas of the hotel. A popular choice when it comes to genuine Indonesian cuisine, Épice melds modern style with Javanese influences by incorporating timber and metal lattices adorned with traditional kawung pattern. Long tables of solid teak finish the look and offer diners a charming venue to enjoy local and pan-Asian specialties
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