holcim foundation and rumama re-adapt bamboo buoyant architecture in indonesia

readapting vernacular structures for contemporary use

In a bid to invent a more relevant typology, Holcim Foundation and Rumama explore the untapped potential of water vernacular architecture in Indonesia. Termed ‘re-adaptation,’ this initiative seeks to upgrade buoyant amenity structures to suit contemporary needs and ensure more sustainable practices in the future. Deriving from the behavior of the traditional buoyant structure, the team conducted a research project on Jatiluhur Reservoir in West Java, where local water communities dwell and water vernacular structures exist.

Embracing holistic, transformational, and transferable principles, the project integrates community participation and prioritizes the integration of local bamboo and expertise. The resulting forms of Buoyant Amenity are utilized as a fishing tourism center and community town hall that are managed together by the community, ensuring the continuation of re-adaptation.

all images courtesy of the author

buoyant amenities realized through local collaboration

As an archipelago country, Indonesia holds thriving water-related cultural wisdom, offering invaluable insights to inspire future sustainable construction. Early research identifies two primary vernacular water settlements: stilt and buoyant structures. While stilt structures provide stability, buoyant ones exhibit remarkable adaptability to fluctuating water levels.

For Buoyant Amenity, Holcim Foundation and Rumama involves the local community in every aspect of the research — from concept and construction to maintenance — to explore the underutilized potential of their traditional building culture. Through participatory workshops, the research is translated into a series of step-by-step and easy-to-construct design diagrams which are developed for local craftsmen to follow using local materials. This integral step enables the collaborative exchange of know-how and ensures the community can confidently be responsible for ongoing maintenance of the structures.

the structural complex as seen from the neighboring buoyant structure

Holcim Foundation and Rumama utilize local bamboo

In dealing with materiality, the design team addressed the materiality’s reaction to the elements. As high humidity and constant contact with the water cause rot and fungal growth on the bamboo, a natural chemical treatment is applied to the bamboo and drying times for the cut bamboo are increased to reduce the rate of deterioration. Additionally, the bamboo elements will need to be periodically replaced for longevity, contributing to a more strengthened local economy.

buoyant structures are identified as exhibiting remarkable adaptability to fluctuating water levels

two sheltered roofs amenities are utilized as a community hub and future fishing tourism center by the community

the initiative explores the untapped potential of water vernacular architecture in Indonesia

natural chemical treatment is applied to the bamboo to reduce rate of deterioration

Buoyant Amenity sited under the Jatiluhur Reservoir, Purwakarta

Holcim Foundation and Rumama site developed step-by-step and easy-to-construct diagrams through workshops

the first Buoyant Amenity prototype

the second prototype provides a more stable bisymmetrical roof form

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iterative studies of the buoyant structure

structural model collaboratively built by local craftsmen to understand the tectonics of the structure

project info:

name: Buoyant Amenity prototype

designer: Holcim Foundation and Rumama
design team: Rionaldi Gunari, Gani Wiratama, Nicholas Rodriques

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: ravail khan | designboom