PROFILE PHOTO COURTESY OF Tierra Design
Bangkok-based Tierra Design has built a strong reputation as a design-oriented practice. Founded by Martin Palleros in Singapore in 1992, the firm has since delivered a diverse portfolio of projects across Australia and Asia.
Below is an excerpt from Indonesia Design’s interview with Martin Palleros and Varissa Srisataporn, directors of the practice, discussing the Hotel Indigo Bintan Lagoi Beach and Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach.
What was the brief from the client?
The client envisioned two distinct resorts on a single site, each catering to different target markets while sharing the same beachfront setting.
Hotel Indigo was conceived to express a strong sense of place, reflecting the character of its surroundings and its connection to the sea. In contrast, Holiday Inn Resort was designed as a family-orientated destination, with vibrant recreational facilities and a clear emphasis on outdoor activities.
How did you translate these ideas into the design?
Our approach was to let the site and landscape guide the design process. The sea, the beach, and expansive open spaces became the primary organising elements. Both architecture and landscape were carefully orchestrated to create a sequence of varied experiences across the resort whilst maintaining continuous visual connections to the shoreline and the surrounding natural environment.
Were there any special materials used for this project?
We employed a combination of natural and engineered timber to achieve both durability and aesthetic warmth. This approach allowed us to retain the visual qualities of timber whilst ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance in a coastal setting.
Given the site’s exposure to sun, salt air, wind, and rain, material selection required careful consideration. Each material was chosen based on its ability to withstand these conditions, ensuring long-term performance while minimising maintenance requirements.
Which part of the hotel is the most satisfying to you, and what was the most challenging?
We take particular satisfaction in the overall masterplan, especially in how the two resorts are arranged in a balanced and cohesive manner across the site.
On a more specific level, the arrival sequence at Hotel Indigo stands out. From the main entrance, marked by a signature kelong-inspired pavilion, the experience unfolds towards the lobby, where the space opens dramatically to reveal views of the sea.
The challenge lay in achieving this sense of smooth integration whilst accommodating two distinct identities within a shared environment.
You have designed many hotels and resorts. What sets this project apart?
Every project carries its character. Our process always begins with listening to the site, understanding its context, and uncovering its inherent qualities.
In this instance, the beachfront setting, open landscapes, and natural environment became the foundation of the design narrative.
We see each project as having its own identity and strengths. Much like our own children, it is impossible to favour one over another. Each holds a distinct value shaped by its context and the story it tells.