Villa Banyu

Banyu means water, and this Seminyak villa lives up to its name. Reflecting ponds thick with lilies and papyrus wrap around the house, timber walkways and stepping stones cross the water to little garden islands, and at night hidden lights turn the whole garden into a glowing water palace. At its centre lies a sparkling pool of around eight by six metres, framed by loungers and tropical blooms.

The living spaces sit in an open pavilion under a high timber ceiling, with the ponds lapping right up to the floor. An L-shaped sofa, an eight-seat dining table beneath a striking pendant light and a sleek open kitchen all look out across the water, so every meal comes with a view. Up above, an airy billiards lounge with treetop outlooks gives everyone another place to unwind.

Four bedrooms with glass walls, bold art and work desks open towards the green, with lush semi-open bathrooms lined in tumbling greenery. A small team prepares breakfast every morning and keeps everything running smoothly, and the location is hard to beat: Eat Street, smart boutiques and the beach are all within easy walking distance.