By subscribing, you agree to our Terms of Use and Policies You may unsubscribe at any time.
In the heart of Salatiga, Central Java, Indonesia, a groundbreaking architectural feat has emerged – the PituRooms, touted as one of the skinniest hotels globally, with a mere width of 110 inches or 280 centimeters (cm). Designed by Sahabat Selojene, this micro-hotel defies convention and ingeniously utilizes a challenging narrow plot sandwiched between an alleyway, a neighboring garden, and surrounding houses. Expanded Metal Grating
Overcoming the constraints of a slim site, PituRooms stands tall, with a maximum height of 55 feet (ft) — or 17 meters (m) — and a length of 31 feet (9.5 m). Ary Indra, the mastermind behind the project, turned adversity into opportunity, transforming potential setbacks into selling points. The hotel encompasses seven cozy rooms, a small lounge, an entrance lobby, and a charming outdoor terrace near its pinnacle.
Each of the seven rooms, measuring a modest 9.1 x 9.8 x 7.8 ft (2.8 x 3 x 2.4 m), boasts a unique color scheme featuring double beds, TVs, and fully equipped bathrooms. Sahabat Selojene emphasized the blend of primitive intimacy and modern amenities, stating, "Each room can provide an intimate shell of a primitive sleeping nest while still addressing modern living."
Floating steps and a narrow 2.9-foot (90 cm) corridor with steel grating flooring create a see-through effect, enhancing the building's spatial openness. Sahabat Selojene explains, "Intended to enlarge the limited space, this kind of openness also proves to be functional in generating air streams from gaps between external walls and opaque canopy on each floor."
PituRooms is not merely a record-setting venture; it's a labor of love for Ary Indra, who returned to his hometown of Salatiga with a mission. Indra envisions PituRooms as a platform to showcase Salatiga's unique charm, stating, "I own, designed and operate PituRooms with my team. It has become my new platform to generate a new type of tourism which involves local communities."
Salatiga, often overlooked in favor of more prominent Indonesian destinations, is a hidden gem. Indra laments the lack of international attention, noting that PituRooms has had "only five percent" non-Indonesian guests since its December 2022 opening. Despite its relative obscurity, Salatiga offers a picturesque backdrop, nestled at the foot of Mount Merbabu.
While PituRooms faces the challenge of being the "skinniest" amidst an industry accustomed to superlatives, Indra embraces the uniqueness, saying, "Here we are skinniest." The hotel challenges the hospitality mindset, inviting guests to experience micro-space living and encouraging a shift from traditional superlative expectations.
Beyond its hospitality offerings, PituRooms is a model for addressing land-related challenges in small Indonesian towns. The project, focusing on functional and compact design, seeks to inspire similar developments across the Asia Pacific region, offering economic benefits and community engagement opportunities.
Steel Grating Cover In a world obsessed with "biggest" and "tallest," PituRooms stands proudly as the skinniest marvel, beckoning travelers to experience Salatiga's unique charm in a space where innovation meets comfort.