If you’re seeking that elusive fusion of high-tech architecture, cool design aesthetic and hot location, The Layar is sure to set your pulse racing.

Seminyak’s brightest new star, The Layar features distinctive pitched roofs that taper dramatically to the ground like the triangular rigging of traditional fishing boats – hence the nautically inspired name (Layar is Indonesian for sails). These steeply sloping geometric roof planes combine with curved and angled walls to create exciting light-filled split-level open spaces that flow seamlessly across the private swimming pool into the garden. This is truly open-plan tropical living at its best!

The Layar is run as a boutique hotel, with 80-staff taking care of 23 villas – each set in its own very garden in an elevated setting that creates a sense of openness and space that’s rare in this most popular of Bali’s resort areas. While each villa has its own well-equipped kitchen, there’s an excellent room service menu, and guests can also book a chef for a sumptuous poolside seafood barbecue.

In The Layar’s three-bedroom villas a huge open living and dining room fans out from a raised platform alongside the kitchen, widening to the garden at the front. Situated off the living area, the bedroom suites (all with king-size beds) each enjoy complete privacy and outdoor space in the form of a deck, terrace or bathroom garden. Four of the villas have a mezzanine level media room; in the others the free-flowing living space is so large, it’s not missed. Edging right into the living area for toe-dipping convenience is the jacuzzi and shallow section of the swimming pool.

With its dynamic design, five-star service and stand-out location, The Layar will appeal to design-savvy families and groups of friends who appreciate the privacy and luxury of their own villa while relishing the accessibility of Bali’s best restaurants, bars, shops and surf breaks just a short stroll away.