Rustic Touch was first approached in 2007 with a concept for a surf resort in the Telo Islands. This concept has evolved into the stunning luxury resort Latitude Zero, situated on its own private island off the West Coast of Sumatra and just north of the Mentawai Islands in Indonesia.
The stunning tropical resort, set in the natural beauty of the Telo Islands, was designed to complement the natural flora and take advantage of the beautiful coastal breezes and magnificent aqua toned outlook that the island provides.
The building’s structure needed to be designed to withstand the adverse conditions of the tropical environment such as gale force winds, heavy rain falls and tsunamis.
The resort was completed in two stages – the first being the main buildings featuring the guest rooms, the pool, gazebo, restaurant and staff amenities.
Being on the equator, the orientation was not necessary for solar purposes; it was the prevailing winds and views dictating the buildings’ orientation. Form and function of the buildings not only internally, but also within the scope of the island space and function of the proposed resort, stipulated building placement.
The guest house is a Queenslander-style design with undercover wrap around timber verandah, which overlooks the stunning pool and gazebo. Featuring high ceilings, fans and louvres to maximise the natural cooling affect, and French doors leading out onto a private verandah, these buildings were designed to take advantage of the soothing sea breezes and spectacular 270 degree ocean views. We also included a large chill-out lounge area on the top floors, where visitors cam relax and enjoy the serenity.
The second stage completed just three years later consisted of the design of luxurious private ocean-front bungalows. Located on the south beach of the island, each bungalow was designed to boast stunning views from a private balcony and features air conditioning, fans and open louvers that allow the natural south breeze to flow through. The bungalows are a stunning addition to the already beautiful resort.
All construction was carried out by local tradesman using materials soused regionally.
You can visit the Latitude Zero website here.
