The modern house trend today goes two ways. Some people prefer the classic and traditional structure with a few upgrades while some like an experimental and edgy twist. The Joglo traditional design is a marvel that encompasses both styles. It is a minimalist yet intricate structure used in Indonesian house designs. It is derived from the Javanese words “Koro and Joglo” meaning “Storeyed building”. It's usually seen in Javanese and Sundanese royal residences. Usually, they come with four pillars that support the framed roof that resembles the Javanese permukiman. Combining it with modern elements can bring a unique touch to the house, along with a hint of vibrant culture.Modern Houses with Joglo Traditional Design
Modern Houses with Joglo Traditional Design
Minimalism is the key when it comes to this Limasan House. It is one of the oldest buildings in the Indonesian archipelago. The traditional structure is usually made of bamboo or wood and is framed with atap roofs. It usually is of the square shape and comes with one door, one window and no kitchen. Its sheer simplicity has been a classic way for many rural folks to build a humble and spacious home. A modern version of this house can be designed with some additional windows, white walls, and gray tiles, which can give it an elegant vibe.Minimalist Limasan House Design
Minimalist Limasan House Design
Being the oldest traditional building in Bali's archipelago, the Rumah Panggung is the perfect fusion of culture and modernity. Few know that instead of the typical stilted buildings, this traditional house design is actually two stories high with the second story dedicated to the family's ancestors. It is situated on a wooden base which is usually seen open for public gathering. In modern designs, this house is made of hardwood, concert or solid walls for improved safety, and a second story for more personal rooms.Balinese Rumah Panggung Traditional House Design
Balinese Rumah Panggung Traditional House Design
From the Minangkabau region in West Sumatra, the Rumah Gadang is a traditional house made of wooden boards and with a unique granular texture. It is also known for its roof that comes in two layers of hornbill-style attributed to their traditional folklore. It has a rectangular shape with a solid wall at its entrance. Modern designs of this house have it slighly elongated, metal bars for the windows, and a triangular front door.Rumah Gadang Traditional House Design
Rumah Gadang Traditional House Design
Rumah Limas or Keraton is an ancient type of residence found in the Palembang region of South Sumatra. It borrows its unique roof design from the buildings of the Palempek era. This traditional house is known for its terracotta slates information and transformed carved details. Generally, its structure is four stories high with a main living room in the center. Updated designs feature a simpler roof design with corrugates sheets or onduline tiles, one or two extra levels, and a veranda extension.Palembang Rumah Limas Design
Palembang Rumah Limas Design
The Timor Loro Sae Traditional House is the most iconic type of traditional house found in the East Nusa Tenggara region. These houses are recognized for their unique enclosed walls. It is believed that the walls are built to be tall and thick in order to ward off intruders. Contemporary designs used by the locals usually add a roof of galvanized iron and usable windows for ventilation. The pillars of the house remain traditional made of elm or dayu wood.Timor Loro Sae Traditional House Design
Timor Loro Sae Traditional House Design
Along with its forested terrain, Papuans also stay true to their Rumah Girang. This traditional house is one of the oldest dwelling types usually found in Sanggal, Merauke, Boven Digoel, and Numfor. It is quite large with an elongated roof mainly made of sago leaves. It is considered the most expensive of all houses due to the amount of materials used to build it. Modern versions of this house have redecorated roofs of corrugated aluminum, round pillars made of cement, and big windows for increased lighting.Papuan Rumah Girang Traditional House Design
Papuan Rumah Girang Traditional House Design
The Rumah Betang of Palembang follows a unique architecture. The house is usually made of three parts: the front gate, the main area, and the animals crib. It is usually made of wooden boards and has a base. Although its traditional interiors are quite exquisite, modern designs have introduced fully paved walls and windows for more lighting. Also, the roof is now made of corrugated iron sheets while the entrance has been widened for better ventilation.Palembang Rumah Betang Traditional House Design
Palembang Rumah Betang Traditional House Design
The Limasan is a traditional house type usually found in Madurese households. It is quite minimalist with a single, triangular roof and usually made of hardwood. It is characterized by its triangular shoes seen near the end the roof. It also has two poles in the middle serving as a support to the structure. In modern designs, the interior of the house is quite experimental with several >colors and angles, while it maintains its curved pillars.Madurese Limasan Traditional House Design
Madurese Limasan Traditional House Design
The Rumah Lobu is an ancient design usually found in the Maluku region. Its exterior may resemble a common four-sided house but its structure in the inside is quite unique. It has one elevated floor and wooden corner pillars for support. It is usually small and comes with a movable wall for easy access to the main living space. Modern adaptations of this house include large walls and colorful frames, making it a great option for a cozy vacation spot.Maluku Rumah Lobu Traditional House Design
Maluku Rumah Lobu Traditional House Design
Traditional Indonesian Home Design - Form & Function
Eschewing western-style minimalism, traditional
Indonesian house design
embraces both form and function in the teakwood homes dotting the countryside. Combining architectural styles from both past and present, Indonesian homes have both open and private spaces - some to welcome guests, others to retreat and relax.
Heritage of House Design
In the
Indonesian home design
tradition, sustainability is paramount. Homes are constructed with materials that provide durability, like teak, bamboo, and brick. Roofs are made of either thatch or copper and the walls are usually constructed of wood, bamboo, or stone. These robust and long-lasting materials endure the elements for generations, making the style of the home a lasting heritage of the area.
Natural Scripture
The interior design of the traditional Indonesian home, much like its architecture, is also sustainably minded. Inside, bright colors, bright designs, and sleek finishes create a juxtaposition between the teakwood walls and modern furniture, giving each room a unique look and feel. Natural elements are also incorporated into the home décor, with large windows and courtyards that let in the surrounding nature and sunlight, providing a calming, natural atmosphere to the home.
Customized Versatility
The designs of traditional Indonesian homes also embrace customization depending on lifestyle. Open floor plans add space for entertaining and gathering, while multiple levels give more options for added bedrooms or shared living spaces. Rooms are designed for versatility, allowing them to be used for multiple purposes, such as living rooms with open plans becoming additional dorm-style bedrooms for young adults.
The Lingering Value of Indonesian Home Design
The traditional
Indonesian house design
still holds relevance and popularity to this day. In addition to its momentous durability, Indonesian homes embody the unique charm of the culture, which is often reflected in the creative and lasting designs of many of these homes. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, these homes also reflect the strong roots of the local area, faithfully enduring the test of time.
