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Ever spent hours scrolling through Bali villa photos, feeling lost in a mix of beautiful but confusing designs? You’re not the only one.
Bali’s villa designs are a mix of old traditions and new global trends. That’s part of what makes the island magical. On the other hand, it can also make choosing the right style feel overwhelming.
That’s why in this guide, we’ll show you the most common design styles for villas in Bali.
From traditional homes full of harmony to the trendy Mediterranean style, let’s find which one fits you best.
Key Takeaways
- The common design styles for villas in Bali are the Traditional Balinese, Javanese Joglo, Modern Luxury, Mediterranean, Japandi, and Eco-Friendly.
- Investors often prefer Mediterranean and Modern styles for high rental demand, while wellness-focused buyers lean toward Traditional, Japandi, or Eco-Friendly designs.
- Many of the best villas combine styles, creating hybrid designs that balance global trends with Balinese character.
Free Download: Bali Property Investment Guide 2025
1. Traditional Balinese Design: Harmony with Nature
When you first explore villas in Bali, you’ll see the Traditional Balinese style captures the island’s true spirit. This is more than architecture—it’s a way of life.
Based on Tri Hita Karana (harmony between people, nature, and the gods), these villas are open, airy, and closely tied to nature.
They usually have a compound layout with separate pavilions (bale) for different functions, all around a central courtyard.
Natural, local materials are used everywhere—solid teak or coconut wood, alang-alang (thatched) roofs for insulation, and open living spaces that flow into gardens and pools.
This style is especially popular in Ubud, where culture and calmness meet.
Key features:
- Open-air living pavilions (bale)
- Teak wood, stone, and bamboo materials
- Alang-alang thatched roofs
- Indoor-outdoor flow with gardens
- Hand-carved details on doors and pillars
Pros:
- Authentic Balinese experience, calming atmosphere
- Excellent natural ventilation, less need for A/C
- Timeless look that blends with Bali’s landscape
Cons:
- Thatched roofs need maintenance every 5–10 years
- Open living brings in insects and humidity
Read More: Building Villa in Bali as a Foreigner: Full Breakdown
2. Javanese Joglo: Timeless Royal Elegance
Joglo houses come from Central Java and were once homes of royals and nobles. They’re easy to spot with their tall, pointed roof held by four central pillars (soko guru).
Many Joglos in Bali are antiques, taken apart in Java and rebuilt here. Made from aged teak, they’re durable and filled with history.
The carvings and high ceilings create a grand, almost cathedral-like feel. Antique Joglos are expensive, but they’re also unique works of art and solid investments.
Key features:
- High, tapered roof
- Four main pillars (soko guru)
- Built from aged teak wood
- Detailed carvings with Javanese artistry
Pros:
- Very durable, lasts for generations
- Majestic look with rich history
- High resale value for antique pieces
Cons:
- Can be darker inside due to wood and roof design
- Expensive and complex to acquire and rebuild
3. Modern & Contemporary Luxury: Sleek and Sophisticated
In places like Canggu and Bukit, modern villas dominate. They’re all about clean lines, big glass windows, and minimalist style.
These homes use glass, concrete, and steel. Think infinity pools that blend with ocean views, rooftop lounges for sunset drinks, and smart home systems.
They’re perfect for investors targeting the luxury rental market, since modern travelers want comfort, style, and convenience.
Key features:
- Clean lines, geometric shapes, and minimalist interiors
- Extensive use of glass, steel, and polished concrete
- Infinity pools and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions
- High-end finishes and smart home technology
- Flat roofs with rooftop lounges or gardens
Pros:
- High appeal in the luxury rental market, potentially leading to a strong ROI.
- The design maximizes natural light and views.
- Generally easier to maintain than traditional styles.
Cons:
- Construction costs can be very high, especially with imported materials and technology.
- May feel “soulless” if not mixed with local touches
Read More: Contemporary Bali Architecture Explained (with Stunning Examples)
4. Mediterranean-Inspired: The Instagrammable Dream
In Pererenan or Bingin, many villas look like they belong in Greece. Whitewashed walls, arched doors, and touches of terracotta or turquoise make them bright and photogenic.
These villas use built-in furniture, polished concrete, rattan, and linen. They feel chic, airy, and social-media ready—perfect for Airbnb.
Their clean design and tropical vibe make them top performers in the short-term rental market.
Key features:
- Whitewashed or light-rendered walls
- Arched doorways and curved architectural elements
- Use of natural textures like wood, stone, and rattan
- Bright, minimalist interior with a coastal holiday feel
Pros:
- Extremely popular on the rental market due to its “Instagrammable” appeal.
- The bright design stays cool in the tropical heat.
- More affordable than ultra-modern luxury.
Cons:
- Trend may fade over time.
- White walls need frequent cleaning in humid Bali.
Read More: Bali Architect Fee: Honest Price and Estimation (2025)
5. Japandi: Minimalist Serenity
Japandi combines Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian coziness. When you step into a Japandi-styled villa, you’ll immediately feel a sense of peace.
This is because the design focuses on calm, uncluttered spaces and finding beauty in simplicity (wabi-sabi).
The palette is soft and natural—light wood, bamboo, stone. Furniture is low and functional. The look is simple but warm, creating a peaceful environment that feels timeless.
Key features:
- Minimalist aesthetic with a focus on clean lines and functionality
- Neutral, earthy color palette
- Use of natural materials like light wood, bamboo, and paper lanterns
- Emphasis on craftsmanship and uncluttered spaces
Pros:
- Creates a calm, peaceful atmosphere
- Timeless and sophisticated
- Suits Bali’s climate with natural ventilation
Cons:
- Too plain for those who like colorful or ornate styles
- Finding high-quality Japandi furniture can be hard in Bali
6. Eco-Friendly & Sustainable: Building for the Future
Eco-villas are now a big trend in Bali. Some are built almost fully from bamboo—strong, renewable, and stunning, especially in Ubud.
Others focus on green tech, like solar panels, rainwater systems, and designs that cool naturally without heavy A/C use.
That’s why we often suggest our clients consider this style, as they not only lower long-term operational costs, but are also a huge selling point for environmentally conscious buyers and renters.
Key features:
- Use of sustainable materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, and rammed earth
- Integration of green technologies like solar panels and water recycling systems
- Design focused on passive cooling and natural ventilation
- Strong connection to the surrounding nature
Pros:
- Lower long-term utility costs and a smaller environmental footprint.
- High marketing appeal for a growing segment of eco-conscious travelers.
Cons:
- Requires skilled builders for bamboo and green tech.
- Initial costs for solar and eco-systems can be high.
Read More: Building Materials for Tropical Climate: What You Need to Know
Final Thoughts: Which Style is Right for You?
Choosing from the common design styles for villas in Bali depends entirely on your goals:
- For investors seeking high rental returns in trendy spots like Canggu or Pererenan: Mediterranean and Modern Luxury are strong options.
- For personal retreats or wellness homes: Traditional Balinese, Japandi, or Eco-Friendly villas offer unmatched peace and connection to nature.
- For history lovers: a Javanese Joglo brings timeless character and elegance.
Many of the best villas mix elements, creating hybrids that are both global and uniquely Balinese.
Whatever style you choose, understanding these basics is the first step to creating your dream villa in paradise.
And if you need help, our award-winning architecture team is here to guide you. Just hit the free consultation button below for a no-obligation discussion. We’ll be happy to answer all your questions.
