The Founder—Clan Living,
design: Ruang Nyaman
Downtown Ubud, Bali, is home to The Founder—Clan Living, a micro-apartment project by Ruang Nyaman that combines private spaces with places to work, exchange ideas and meet. The studio's premise was to create a comfortable space where entrepreneurs can both work and relax while expanding their networks. The design was based on an already existing building, whose structure was enhanced with curved bamboo facades and other natural materials—stone, coffee branches and wood—to harmonize with the local cultural context and promote sustainability.
Aerial view of the urban area with buildings, roads and greenery; rooftop pool visible
Photo: Danang Seta © Ruang Nyaman
common area and pool
The centerpiece of the common area is a two-level bamboo roof, with a wooden ramp connecting the floors. The upper level is a work zone with a view of the pool and curved lines to soothe the eye. The lower level is where people can socialize, relaxing and cooling their feet in the water. A fully equipped kitchen and pantry are also available for communal use, fostering integration and sharing.
Architectural cross-sections of the multi-story building with additional single-story wings
pic: © Ruang Nyaman
Veranda with pool access and coworking space
The private zones are spread over three floors, each offering a different experience. The first floor has a large veranda with coffee branch loungers and direct access to the pool. The second floor, with coffee branch hammocks, allows you to relax in the balcony space. The third level offers a work table overlooking the surroundings.
A tropical-style outdoor bar with a bamboo structure and a small pool in front
Photo credit: Danang Seta © Ruang Nyaman
The interiors connect the living room and bedroom thanks to a mezzanine and a unique staircase, creating a comfortable space for working and relaxing.
Minimalist room with wooden ceiling, white desk, chair and TV
Photo: Danang Seta © Ruang Nyaman
workation under a bamboo roof
The building's façade in the form of arches made of bamboo is designed to make the space flexible and adaptable to the needs of users, including digital nomads. The structure supports a variety of utility functions, allowing the space to flexibly adapt to the dynamically changing demands of those working remotely. The second layer of the façade, with an openwork structure, was designed taking into account local climatic and environmental conditions. Its permeability allows to regulate the access of sunlight to the building's interior and optimize the level of visibility, which supports the comfort of the space regardless of external conditions.
Luxurious bamboo and rattan interior with swimming pool
Photo: Danang Seta © Ruang Nyaman
living, working, relaxing for digital nomads
The Clan Living project by Ruang Nyaman's office is an example of an innovative approach to creating living spaces that meet the needs of today's digital nomads and workation advocates. The project combines traditional natural materials, such as bamboo and wood, with thoughtful solutions for common and private areas that promote integration, work and relaxation surrounded by nature. Through flexible design, thoughtful aesthetics and the use of eco-friendly solutions, Clan Living is creating a model of a living space for the future—one that promotes a balance between work and leisure, sustainability and a deep respect for local culture.
Elaborated: Natalia Ledzianowska
Illustrations provided courtesy of Ruang Nyaman studio.
