Building in Ungasan: Navigating Water Limitations, Construction Practices, and Unique Structural Designs

Hi, I’m Jason, a Business Journalist at Bukit Vista here to unpack the realities of property development in Bali’s booming southern district. In this article, we delve into the core challenges and best practices fueled by insights from Bali Business Review, featuring a walkthrough of active construction projects in Ungasan. From water supply hurdles to the fine technical details that separate exceptional builds from average ones, this is your deep dive into what it really takes to construct in this fast-evolving region of Bali.

Water Scarcity in Ungasan: Why Every Building Needs Its Own Tank

Water is scarce in Ungasan. That’s the non-negotiable starting point for any construction project here. Unlike other regions where centralized water infrastructure is more developed, builders in Ungasan must install an individual water tank per property before breaking ground. This need isn’t just a technical formality — it’s a critical factor in project feasibility and ongoing property functionality, particularly for short-term rentals and villas seeking year-round service reliability.

Foundations in Construction Materials: Getting the Cement Mix Right

At the heart of sturdy structures lies the perfect blend of construction materials. In most builds across Ungasan, high-quality sand is mixed with cement using a semi-automated mixer — a reliable method for achieving consistent wall build standards. This mix, once combined with blocks, is what locals refer to as “plaster.” Upon drying, it forms the base surface for future treatments such as paint or tiling.

Attention to Corners: The Craft Behind Perfect Edges

The subtleties in construction matter, especially when aiming for precision. Achieving clean, sharp corners requires additional materials and craftsmanship. Builders commonly apply a specialized edging material during the plastering process to define corners neatly. This is followed by the use of **Cornish Compound A+**, which smooths surfaces and ensures the walls are even, clean, and professional in appearance. These finishing touches may sound minor but are essential for creating a premium final product that appeals to discerning homeowners and renters.

Wired for Success: Installing Infrastructure Early

One of the standout practices in these developments is the early installation of wiring and AC piping. Unlike projects that leave mechanical and electrical components to the end stages, many builds in Ungasan choose to embed these systems early in the process. This approach leads to more integrated and aesthetically pleasing outcomes — a smart move especially in high-end, design-sensitive properties.

Big Buildings, Bigger Standards: Structural Integrity in Scale

Larger buildings in Ungasan require special engineering attention. As highlighted in the review, some standout projects are using heavy-duty 26mm steel bars for vertical structural support. These oversized reinforcing bars speak to the immense load-bearing requirements of multi-story buildings and wide-span villas.

Another key structural innovation mentioned is the implementation of **“chakar ayam”**, a local term referring to boxed reinforcements embedded at foundational corners. These units add resilience and stability to the entire structure, allowing it to withstand both environmental stressors and heavy usage over time.

The Aesthetic & Practical: From Inside Out

As the tour in the video reveals, interior elevations are reaching completion with tiling, bathroom installs, and upper-level finishes. These upper floors also offer exceptional views — a detail that, while visual, adds tangible value for both developers and end-users in a hyper-competitive rental market.

Each project showcases good construction management and material choice, revealing opportunities to scale this level of quality across future builds in the region.

What This Means for Developers

– **Prepare for infrastructure challenges early:** Budget for water tanks and utilities installation well in advance.
– **Invest in quality materials:** Don’t skimp on essential elements like cement mix ratios, edging materials, and smoothing compounds.
– **Lay the groundwork — literally:** Prioritize foundational reinforcements like “chakar ayam” and high-diameter steel bars in larger buildings.
– **Plan electrical and AC installations early:** Future-proof your building and avoid last-minute design compromises.

Conclusion: Quality Wins in Ungasan’s Emerging Market

Building in Ungasan is not for the faint-hearted. It demands foresight, high material standards, and a savvy understanding of both local challenges and global expectations. Armed with the knowledge shared in this video and article, developers and property owners can make informed decisions that lead to enduring, high-value builds.

For a detailed look at the construction site and real-world practices, watch the full walkthrough here:

Jason, Business Journalist at Bukit Vista