Almost two years in gestation, it really began when Tseng and The Rabbit Hole owner Kent Chua made a research trip to Bali in 2019 and were inspired by how outdoor spaces like swimming pools and skateparks were being used as leisure and community spaces while being incorporated into F&B concepts.

“When the pandemic hit and borders shut, we made the decision to hibernate the business but after nine months we realised that we either had to close down for good or double down and give the property a new lease of life,” recalls Chua. They chose the latter.

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POOL SIDE

Inspired by the Bali trip, Chua visualised an oasis in chaotic Changkat Bukit Bintang, a pool villa where you could dine all day with a coffee kiosk and cocktails on tap. After the building was stripped of its former trappings, elements that recalled '80s beach bungalows were added such as textured paint for the surfaces and a pool with handmade blue mosaic.

To further accentuate the tropical beach vibe, materials were kept natural and muted. Efforts were made to preserve all the trees on the site to help keep the space cool, especially since it was semi-outdoor.

“We wanted to have an open and outdoor feel so most areas are naturally ventilated and interior space can be opened up to combine with the alfresco area in the evening. Plants, retractable awning and the swimming pool really help with reducing the power needed to cool down the space,” notes Tseng.

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