THE ULIV EDIT: CURATED SPACES

A DESERT INSPIRED ESCAPE in bali
bocoa villas
Products by Uliv · Architecture by Homeboys Projects · Photography by Wisuda Dwipana
Bocoa Villas bring a modern take on African clay architecture, blending brutalist structure with soft, handcrafted finishes. Textured walls, earthy tones, and monolithic forms create a thoughtfully unique space.
We stayed at the one-bedroom Bocoa in Pererenan — a quiet neighbourhood not far from some of our favourite cafés and restaurants. And honestly, we didn’t expect to love it as much as we did. From the moment you step in, it’s clear this isn’t your typical Bali villa. No bamboo rooftops, no polished resort vibe. Just textured clay walls, soft curves, and a layout that feels both cosy and intimate, yet open and spacious. The design takes cues from African mud houses — earthy tones, hand-rendered surfaces, and gravel-lined courtyards that feel more desert than tropics. The private pool cuts straight through the middle of the space, surrounded by just enough green. One of our favourite details? The indoor-outdoor living — you can step straight from your living area into the pool and take a dip.

Clay, curves, and a mix of stone, timber, and terrazzo meet clean lines, with light and shadows shifting across every corner.
The stairs are beautifully designed and open — almost loft-style — connecting the upper and lower levels, with light coming in from above. Upstairs, you step into a cosy bedroom that leads into the bathroom, where the same natural materials carry through. We especially loved the stone sink and the warm wooden elements throughout.
Overall, this little gem is worth a visit — different from so many other stays in Bali. Available in one, two, or three-bedroom layouts, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to put your phone down, sit barefoot on the steps, and just enjoy for a while. Exactly what we needed.
More at @bocoa.villas
Pererenan, Bali