Villa Mola, a stunning container home project in Bali, was brought to life by the creative duo of Italian designer Giorgio and French designer François.
These two innovators, driven by their passion for recycling and sustainable living, decided to use shipping containers to construct their dream villa.
Their journey into container architecture was inspired by their previous experience in the short-term rental business in the Philippines, where they recognized the growing tourism potential of Bali.
This unique project reflects their commitment to eco-friendly construction, cost-effectiveness, and innovative design.
Embracing the Concept of Container Architecture
Giorgio and François were captivated by the idea of recycling, saving time, and reducing costs through container architecture.
This innovative construction method appealed to their environmental consciousness and practical needs.
They drew inspiration from various documentaries on YouTube and television, which showcased the versatility and potential of container homes.
These resources fueled their imagination and solidified their decision to embark on this ambitious project in Bali.
Challenges in Building the Container Villa
The road to creating Villa Mola was fraught with challenges. Giorgio and François faced numerous obstacles, including the logistical difficulties of transporting large shipping containers to their construction site in Bali.
The remote location and the rugged terrain added complexity to the task, requiring meticulous planning and execution.
One of the most significant hurdles was dealing with an unscrupulous contractor, which delayed progress and added stress to the project.
However, Giorgio and François turned these challenges into learning opportunities.
They became well-versed in the intricacies of container construction, learning essential tips about insulation, structural reinforcement, and the preparation of containers, including sanding and applying anti-corrosion paint.
Architectural Design of Villa Mola
Villa Mola is a two-story structure that artfully combines form and function. The ground floor comprises a 2×20 FT shipping container, while the upper floor uses two 40 FT high cube shipping containers.
This configuration results in a total living area of 120 square meters (approximately 1300 square feet), providing ample space for luxurious living.
The villa boasts a modern and minimalist design, with large windows that flood the interior with natural light and offer breathtaking views of Bali’s lush landscape.
The thoughtful placement of windows and sliding glass doors ensures a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the villa’s airy and open feel.
Interior Layout and Features
The interior of Villa Mola is both stylish and practical. The ground floor features a spacious living area that blends seamlessly into the kitchen and dining space.
The open-concept design fosters a sense of continuity and flow, making the villa perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying quiet family time.
Upstairs, the villa houses two elegantly designed bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom.
These private sanctuaries are designed to offer comfort and tranquility, with modern amenities and tasteful decor.
The use of high-quality materials and attention to detail in the interior finishes further enhances the villa’s luxurious ambiance.
Cost Breakdown of the Project
The entire Villa Mola project, which includes two villas, was completed at a cost of approximately $270,000.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the expenses:
- Land: $90,000
- Building Permit: $10,000
- Containers: $18,000 (approximately $1,700 for each 20ft container and $2,600 for each 40ft high cube container)
- Pools: $12,000 (for two pools measuring 3×6 meters each)
- Furniture: $20,000
- Underground Water Tank: $5,000 for a 12 cubic meter (about 3,000 gallons) capacity
- External Walls: $3,000
- Contractor Services and Supplies: $91,000
- Windows: $9,000
- Miscellaneous: $12,000
If we exclude the cost of land, pools, and furniture, the cost of constructing the two villas totals $148,000.
This equates to $74,000 per villa, making it a cost-effective option compared to traditional construction methods.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Aspects
The use of shipping containers as building blocks for Villa Mola aligns with Giorgio and François’ commitment to sustainability.
By repurposing these sturdy steel containers, they significantly reduced the need for conventional building materials, thereby minimizing the environmental impact of the construction process.
Moreover, the villa’s design incorporates energy-efficient features such as natural ventilation and solar power, further enhancing its eco-friendly credentials.
These elements not only reduce the carbon footprint of the villa but also contribute to lower utility costs, making it a sustainable choice for modern living.
Villa Mola as a Vacation Destination
Villa Mola has quickly become a sought-after vacation destination in Bali, attracting tourists from around the world.
The villa’s unique design, coupled with its prime location in the heart of Bali’s natural beauty, offers an unforgettable experience for guests.
The serene surroundings, coupled with the luxurious amenities, provide the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Guests can book a stay at Villa Mola through platforms like Airbnb, with room rates starting at $200 per night.
This affordable pricing, combined with the villa’s high-quality offerings, makes it an attractive option for travelers seeking upscale yet cost-effective accommodation in Bali.
Summary
The transformation of shipping containers into Villa Mola is a testament to the ingenuity and determination of Giorgio and François.
Their ability to overcome challenges and create a beautiful, functional, and sustainable living space from unconventional materials is truly inspiring.
Villa Mola not only exemplifies the potential of container architecture but also underscores the importance of innovative thinking in modern construction.
For those seeking a unique and luxurious stay in Bali, Villa Mola offers an experience like no other.
With its combination of contemporary design, sustainable practices, and comfortable amenities, it stands as a shining example of how recycled materials can be transformed into architectural masterpieces.
