For the 6th edition of The Colours of Indonesia, themed Summer Home, Eko Priharseno was tasked with designing a hobby room within a uniquely challenging layout—an asymmetrical, curved space with a narrow two-meter entrance. Eko approached this challenge by crafting an intimate retreat dedicated to music, vinyl records, and books.
Rejecting traditional design constraints, Eko embraced an informal philosophy, free from strict design rules, symmetry, or rigid color coordination. What was desired was an intentional imperfection, a space that feels alive and comfortable.
The first step was to evoke a simple yet architectural experience within the room. A flat ceiling punctuated by circular cut-outs and accentuated by semicircular arches, providing subtle yet dynamic structural detail. The two opposing walls, along with the floor, are clad in solid wood, meticulously crafted by the contractor Biraprana, using an array of textures to create visual depth. On one of the walls, the design incorporated a play of depth, using Arte wallpaper combined with textured Suzuka paint by SEIO Group. A corner of the room is dedicated to an indoor planter filled with sea pandan plants sourced from Eshcol Green, adding a touch of natural vibrancy. The architectural lines of the ceiling were paired with minimalist pendant lights by Vibia, whose sleek design added a touch of modern artistry to the overall simplicity
The focal point of the room, however, is a rare Wandanlagen sound system by Braun, designed by the iconic Dieter Rams in 1968. With only 1,000 units ever made, this exclusive piece serves both as a vinyl player and radio, elevating the auditory experience.
Custom-designed flooring by TEKA was created exclusively for the Blue Note exhibit, drawing inspiration from traditional Indonesian weaving techniques. This motif, interpreted in two distinct wood tones, offers a refined yet understated elegance, a modern homage to cultural heritage.
The storage solutions within the room are equally considered. Code wall system by Poliform takes center stage as a multifunctional display, offering storage for books, cameras, and even a built-in bar. Another wall displaying a shelving system by USM adds a playful contrast with its vibrant colors, serving as a home for vinyl records, additional storage, seating, and space for hanging plants.
Comfort and style are embodied in the choice of furnishings. The room features a Brera Poliform sofa with leather accents, perfectly paired with the sculptural Sumo lounge chair by Maison Dada and the iconic La Chaise by Vitra, creating a seating arrangement that invites relaxation.
The inspiration for this room was drawn from Eko’s personal road trips across the remote landscapes of Java and Bali during the pandemic. Throughout these journeys, he observed the quiet beauty of traditional homes, defined by their humble materials and natural, earthy color palettes. From woven walls to plaster made from a mixture of mud and rice husks, these structures embodied a sense of grounded simplicity that Eko sought to reinterpret in a contemporary context.
Music also played a significant role in the design concept. Each road trip was accompanied by carefully curated playlists that served as soundtracks to the journey, with each trip having its own unique theme.
As for the choice of blue—the color is not only Eko’s personal favorite but also a tribute to the tranquil beauty of the sea, a nod to his roots in Sanur, Bali. The room’s name, Blue Note, is a reference to the legendary record label known for producing some of the finest musical works of the 20th century.
The experience within the Blue Note room is multi-sensory. In addition to visual and auditory elements, the olfactory experience was carefully curated with a custom scent developed in collaboration with GoodVibes. This fragrance, reminiscent of the earthy aroma of rain-soaked soil, grass, and the scent of the land after a fresh downpour, evokes memories of Eko’s road trips, completing the immersive journey.
Ultimately, the Blue Note room offers a space that is unpretentious yet deeply refined, a place where one can sit back, relax, and lose themselves in music, surrounded by the quiet elegance of thoughtful design. The room captures a sense of laid-back luxury, where every detail is a gentle reminder of the beauty found in imperfection and simplicity
