Identity of Indonesian Architecture

Introduction

• Speaker: Rubi Roesli
• Topic: Identity of Indonesian architecture
• Challenge: Indonesia is diverse and rich in culture, making it hard to define a single architectural identity
• Approach: Searching for Indonesian identity in modern architecture and sharing personal perspectives

Traditional Indonesian Architecture

• Nusantara Traditional Houses:

  • Examples: Karo Batak, Toba Batak, Minangkabau, Kenyah
  • Influences: Ancient Austronesian, tree houses, boats, buffalo symbolism
  • Design Elements: Foundation, body, and head (roof)
  • Cultural influences: Vertical and horizontal human relations

• Examples of Regional Architecture:

  • Sumba: Lower part for animals, middle for humans, high roof for ancestors
  • Toraja and Bugis: Structural elements like head, body, and foundation
  • Bio-mimicry: Geometric forms found in nature translated into carvings

Tropical House Characteristics

• Breathable Walls: Allow air and light without compromising privacy
• Roof Design: Essential for tropical climate, different from houses in four-season countries

Historical Evolution of Indonesian Architecture

• Pre-Hindu-Buddhist Period
• Hindu-Buddhist Influence: Temples with stepped lower parts and saddle roofs
• Islamic Era: Stepped roofs (2 or 3 levels)
• Colonial Era:
  • Dutch influence: Baroque, neo-classic styles
  • Example: Old Town of Jakarta, Fort Rotterdam
  • Response to climate: Lines in Villa Isola

Modern and Contemporary Architecture

• Rumah Jengki
• Jakarta’s Living Spaces
• Modern Adaptations: Blending traditional forms with modern needs
  • Example: Family living space with public and private zones
  • Design: Foundation, body, saddle roof with louvre

Public Building - Indonesian Pavilion at World Expo Milano

• Concept: Representation of 'tanah air' (land and water)
  • Maritime Promotion
  • Inspiration: Traditional fish trap (bubu)
• Construction Method:
  • Computational architecture for designing and calculating every panel
  • Blend of traditional weaving and modern construction

Conclusion

• Importance of understanding history to shape future architecture
• Identity must evolve, reflecting past and future
• Example of robotic construction in Germany as a glimpse into the future
• Architecture must respond to nature, culture, technical abilities, and material availability
• Future architecture must incorporate lessons from the past and adapt to new challenges.