In Indonesia, a novel architectural endeavor is striving not only to clinch the title of the “world’s skinniest hotel” but also to draw global attention to the hometown of its creator. Ary Indra, an architect who received training in Jakarta and Singapore, returned to his roots in Salatiga, Central Java, with a vision to leverage his skills for the benefit of the local community.
Upon discovering an oddly shaped and neglected plot of land in Salatiga, measuring a mere 2.8 meters (9 feet) in width, Indra envisioned and brought to life PituRooms. Translating to “seven” in Javanese, the seven-room hotel rises five stories high, with each room accommodating a double bed and a compact bathroom featuring a shower and toilet. The unique charm of each room is crafted through the inclusion of local artwork and distinctive interiors.
Indra’s aspiration for PituRooms extends beyond offering a place to stay; he aims to redefine tourism in Salatiga by actively involving the local community. Speaking to CNN, he expressed his desire for people to experience Salatiga in a fresh and innovative way. As the owner, designer, and operator of PituRooms, Indra sees it as a platform to pioneer a new kind of tourism that fosters meaningful connections with the local populace.
Situated 300 miles southeast of Jakarta, Salatiga is often overshadowed by more prominent destinations like Yogyakarta, Surabaya, or Bali, attracting limited attention from international travelers. Indra notes that PituRooms, inaugurated in December 2022, has hosted only a small percentage of non-Indonesian guests, emphasizing the need to showcase Salatiga’s unique qualities to a broader audience.
Despite its relatively low profile among foreign tourists, Salatiga is recognized within Indonesia as a tolerant city with excellent culinary offerings, robust infrastructure, and a high quality of life. Historically, it served as a favored weekend retreat for the Dutch during the colonial era. Indra hopes that PituRooms will challenge preconceptions about Salatiga, proving that the city has much more to offer than a serene retirement destination.
Addressing challenges encountered during the project, Indra acknowledges the prevailing mindset in the hospitality industry, which often gravitates toward superlatives like “biggest,” “tallest,” or “most luxurious.” PituRooms deliberately embraces its distinctive “skinniest” status, transforming architectural constraints into a compelling selling point. According to Indra, the hotel serves as a study in micro-space, inviting guests to explore and experience life within “just enough” space.
Salatiga’s picturesque backdrop, nestled at the foot of Mount Merbabu, adds a natural allure to PituRooms. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the majestic mountain from their hotel rooms. Beyond providing accommodation, PituRooms features a rooftop restaurant catering to locals and plans to host various events and art exhibitions, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of Salatiga. Indra’s vision for PituRooms extends beyond conventional hospitality, aiming to instill a sense of place and community engagement in the realm of global tourism.