In the heart of Indonesia, a traditional architectural form known as Rumoh Aceh is making a comeback, not just as a cultural revival, but as a potential game-changer in the architectural and construction industries. A recent study published in ‘ARTEKS: Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur’ (translated to ‘ARTEKS: Journal of Architectural Engineering’) explores how the shape grammar approach can be used to analyze and re-learn the tectonic forms of Rumoh Aceh, offering new opportunities for innovation and preservation.
Zulhadi Sahputra, the lead author of the study, explains that the tectonic expression in Indonesian architecture has been on the decline, particularly in vernacular structures like Rumoh Aceh. “This decline is a loss of cultural heritage and a missed opportunity for architectural innovation,” Sahputra notes. Rumoh Aceh, with its distinctive formal configurations and spatial principles, serves as a rich source of tectonic knowledge that can be tapped into using shape grammar.
Shape grammar, a method that uses geometric rules to describe and generate architectural forms, provides a systematic way to codify the architectural form and tectonic elements of Rumoh Aceh. This approach not only aids in preserving the cultural heritage but also opens up new avenues for exploration and application in modern architecture.
The study employs an explanatory case study methodology, delving into pertinent literature related to the application of shape grammar. The findings indicate that shape grammar can indeed be effectively utilized to codify the architectural form and tectonic elements of Rumoh Aceh. This methodological approach is expected to enrich the spectrum of techniques available for exploring and recording tectonic knowledge within the context of traditional Indonesian architecture.
The implications of this research are significant for the architectural and construction industries. By re-learning and applying the tectonic forms of Rumoh Aceh, architects and builders can create structures that are not only culturally resonant but also potentially more sustainable and efficient. This could lead to a new wave of architectural innovation that draws on traditional forms and principles to create modern, high-performance buildings.
Moreover, the use of shape grammar in this context could pave the way for similar applications in other cultural and architectural contexts. As Sahputra puts it, “This is just the beginning. The potential for shape grammar to unlock the tectonic knowledge in traditional architectures around the world is immense.”
In the energy sector, the commercial impacts could be substantial. Buildings that incorporate these traditional forms and principles could be more energy-efficient, reducing the overall energy consumption and carbon footprint. This aligns with the growing global demand for sustainable and eco-friendly construction practices.
As we look to the future, the study by Sahputra and his team offers a compelling vision of how traditional architectural forms can be re-learned and applied in innovative ways. It challenges us to think beyond the conventional and to explore the rich tectonic knowledge embedded in our cultural heritage. The journey of re-learning Rumoh Aceh is not just a step back in time; it’s a leap forward into a future where tradition and innovation coexist harmoniously.