ar-chi-tect.org

APMCHUD (Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development) in Solo, Indonesia

architect — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 07:56:47 +0000

The 3rd APMCHUD theme is = Empowering Communities for Sustainable Urbanization: Strengthening Local Capacity for Building Local Economy and Adapting to Climate Change

What is APMCHUD?
APMCHUD is Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development
APMCHUD means to exchange experience among its members in overcoming the practical problems of urbanization in the field, including housing and other slums. An APMCHUD member currently consists of Indonesia, Qatar, Iran, India, Pakistan, China and Armenia.

Vision::Global Knowledge hub and facilitator of human settlement development
Mission::Promoting Sustainable Development of Human Settlements in Asia Pacific Region.

Why Solo?
Indonesia will share their experiences to members of other APMCHUD in handling the problems of urbanization such as Pucang Sawit relocation project, where there will be shown that removal of slums on the banks of the Solo River, which moved to the location of Elegant and Pipitan in Solo.

There was also conduct a similar project in the region Keratonan to the field of sanitation, the area of prevention Notodipuro local vendors market location (Pedagang Kaki Lima) and area on the banks of Kali Anyar, Nusukan that will be arranged in a pattern of surgical ward, all located at Solo.

21st to 23rd of June, 2010 Place: Hotel Sunan, Solo

Related Events in Solo =
Solo Batik Fashion, 20th – 24th June, 2010, Place: Ngarsopuro, Solo
Solo Batik Carnival, 23rd of June, 2010, Place: Jl. Slamet Riyadi

Old Mosques of Mataram Kingdom

Vicky Ariyanti — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 17:05:22 +0000

Mataram Kingdom is located in central java, although in the history, the kingdom was split into two sub-kingdom, namely Ngayogyakarto (the city of Jogjakarta) and Surakarta (the city of Solo or Surakarta), the two shared the same root tradition and even came from a single family ancestor. What we about to see is an acculturation of Islam and Javanese culture, which is essential to understand the style of these mosques. There are 3 mosques that stands until today. The oldest would be in Kotagede, built on 1640 by Sultan Agung (the first king of moslem Mataram Kingdom) and was also renovated in by Paku Buwono (whose decendant later on would be reigning in Surakarta).

As we see the style was still using Javanese architecture which accomodating the Mihrab (where the Imam would lead the prayer from) and prayers’ hall. Eventhough the style is relativelly simple, there is a grand gesture from the moment we step in the hall. The aura of serenity and calmness. The fences surrounding the mosque was built in Hindu style in order to honor other religion (at that time Hindu and Budha) who have helped building the mosque. So, from the out side you will find that the compound as if we are entering a Hindu Pura (temple).

The second oldest would be Masjid Agung Surakarta (the great mosque of Surakarta) which was built in 1763.

The youngest is Masjid Agung Yogyakarta which was built nearing the end of 18th century.

On the three mosques we found similiarity of granduer even if ornamentations were rare on Kotagede mosque. The philosphy of using the space is in the same style with one main hall (although different in sizes) and a mihrab on the front (west side, since according to compass Makkah where Ka’bah is located, is in that direction), with additional function such as terraces, here and there according to the taste of the ruler at the time, but still in the main line.

Change, Heritage in Architecture, Urban Development Symposium

Andie Wicaksono — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 13:17:13 +0000

4^th International Symposium of Nusantara Urban Research Institute (NURI) committee invite you to participate on our symposium that be held on November 7^th 2009 at Architecture department of Engineering Faculty, Diponegoro University, Tembalang Campuss, Semarang, Central Java- Indonesia.

(click picture for larger image)

Abstract submission dateline: Oct 1st, 2009 (billingual, max 300words, single space, times new roman 10)

Abstract Announcement : Oct 3rd, 2009

Full paper submission : Oct 25th, 2009

Sympossium date : Nov 7th, 2009

Excursion : Nov 8th, 2009 (in confirmation)

We hope you can help us to distribute (forward) this e-mail to others.

Thanks you for your attention and appreciation in this international symposium.

Sympossium Committe

Culture Industry & Indonesia’s Traditional Markets

Prananda Navitas — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 05:18:44 +0000

Background: Traditionally, markets in Indonesia were not just places to trade goods and services, but also a place of cultural and social exchange. In the ancient days, markets open once a week (the Javanese calendar only has 5 days in a week; Pahing, Pon, Wage, Kliwon, and Legi) because the population was not as dense as today. The day on which the market is open is known as “dina pasaran” (market day). More over, every village had their own market day. This meant that anyone from a particular village, who needs to purchase goods on a non-market day, must go to another village to purchase the goods they need. This phenomenon encourages markets to also function as a place of social and cultural exchange, with local produce reflecting local culture (every village also has their own trading customs, depending on local culture and traditions). Markets also encourage village growth, and thus were the barometer of a village’s welfare. Thus, Indonesia’s traditional marketplaces represent one of the nation’s many cultural heritages. Their existence is undoubtedly needed by society as they, up to this day, provide goods and sevices at a low and negotiable price.

Read more…

Situ Gintung; Man Made or Natural Tragedy

Vicky Ariyanti — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 13:39:53 +0000

A reservoir near Jakarta has recently overly flooded and not just some flood, it raised and overflowed the dam, cracked it widely, putting up all the concrete and soil from the side reservoir, 20 meters tall, tumbling to the surrounding, which unfortunately was overcrowded with human settlements. As seen on the picture, the damage was vast and so far a hundred lives were gone, houses shattered, body parts missing, pets dead, and illness sprouted.

Let us remember that once this was a scenic view, people go there to enjoy the man-made lake, that was built by the Dutch in the 40s, to have fun with their family and the land surrounding it were easily sold as having good view to the water.

But, it was not necessarily legal, because even though the local government gave out permission to build houses and buildings, the area it self was not recommended to be a settlement, especially those on the brink of the reservoir.

As we could logically place into mind, the vast water body also hold potential of misgivings. The structure was old and even though it was built by the Dutch, it has been used to a maximum limit.

So the question lays: was it the nature being mad at us? Or was it us making wrong doings to nature that created this chaos?

And us, architects, builders who played as gods putting our labors into buildings, we shared the concequences. We should have warn them! Next time a costumer arrive at your door, don’t forget to ask what the surroundings were, if it is considered a high risk area to live in, suggest them to move out and sell the property. At least that what we could do…

Abandoned Projects; Eyesores in Metropolis

Prananda Navitas — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 22:56:33 +0000

Since the world is now discussing about the so-called Global Economic Crisis, we thought it would be appropriate if we discussed a little bit about abandoned projects in the metropolitan. In this case, we take a look at two abandoned projects in Surabaya. What has these abandoned projects to do with global economics? Well, one of them, Adistana (the reddish tower on the right), has been abandoned since the monetary crisis that had hit Indonesia in the late 90’s. While the other project (Carrefour, right next to Adistana – on the left in the picture) has been abandoned (correct me if I’m wrong) since late 2006.

-Prananda Navitas

Three towers stand tall, cranes still attached to them, unfinished.While directly next to the three towers, a shopping-center-to-be stands. These projects are only two among many abandoned projects in Surabaya; eyesores in the metropolis. They stand as if monuments of economic mis-management, and the powerlessness of our urban authorities against private investors and project developers. What can be done about these unfinished structures?

Urban Authorities

Being the citizens’ representatives, urban authorities should invite project owners to discuss the future of these abandoned buildings, and whether they will re-commence construction/development.

Project owner says “yes”: authorities should define the strictest of deadlines, and apply taxes that multiply each time the project exceeds the agreed deadline. Failure to pay these taxes give urban authorities the right to seize the project and put it on auction.

Project owner says “no”: authorities may charge him with disturbing the public right of vista (will be discussed further in this post), and bring the case to the court of law.

Project has been seized by banks: urban authorities charge the bank with disturbing the public right of vista and apply a (very large) fine. Should the bank refuse to pay, then authorities may bring the bank to the court of law. Failing to pay the fine or show up in court may result in the bank having its permit revoked and its assets seized by urban authorities.

Regulating Large Construction Projects

It is an inevitable fact that cities must have regulations concerning large construction projects. Then it is also a must that cities have regulations concerning city beautification; protecting the citizens’ rights of vista. In its implementation, and to put pressure on investors and developers, multiple taxes should be applied to large projects, and that those taxes multiply even more if the project exceeds the deadline.

A Little Something for Investors and Developers

If a new project is proposed, then it might be a good idea that urban authorities force developers to continue abandoned projects. Should they refuse, developers may be charged with disrupting the public right of vista.

Examples

A new shopping center can occupy the abandoned Carrefour structure. All developers need to do is finish the building; most of the infrastructure has been provided.

A new hotel or apartment may come out of the abandoned Adistana towers. Same as the afore mentioned, all developers need to do is finish the building!

In The End

This message goes out to designers and developers: we should consider finishing an unfinished project as a challenge. We all know that conceiving something totally new is much easier at times rather than to build on what is already there. It’s up to us all to make our cities a pleasant place to live in; thus it’s our responsibility to beautify it.

Mushalla; The Neglected Facility

Prananda Navitas — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 17:49:55 +0000

Malls and shopping centres have become, like it or not, an integral part of our urban lifestyle. Metropolitan cities in Indonesia such as Surabaya, and Jakarta,are basically flooded with this type of shopping facility. As shopping, and/or, mall-hopping has become a culture, some people actually spend all day in shopping centers, even consider them as family recreation facility!

As Moslems, we are obliged to pray 5 times daily, and for people who practically spend their entire day in malls, either as staff or visitor, this generates a need for Mushallas to accommodate this need. Unfortunately, as far as I know, there hasn’t been a shopping center that is able to provide its staff and visitors with a somewhat befitting Mushalla. The Mushallas I have prayed in, in these shopping centers, are usually hidden, next to the toilets, or occupy left-over spaces near, or in vehicle parking areas. To be honest, I don’t think that the places that I have mentioned are befitting to be holy spaces!

A part of me consider this a regular issue, as mall owners are generally non-Moslem, and thus it may be the case that they think “oh well, as long as I give them a place to pray in, then it’ll be ok…” but it’s not! What if I put chappels in parking lots? I bet they’ll have something to say as well!

So, why don’t we as architects, take a closer look at these public religious facilities…they play an important role in our lives, and I reckon that they deserve to be located on a much better spot.

Nanda

January Events

Vicky Ariyanti — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 18:24:32 +0000

On Islamic Architecture

January 15: Yarshater Lectures at SOAS Lecture, United Kingdom

January 16: Heritage Issues of Hampi,Conference India

January 21: Contemporary Arab American Art Exhibition, United States

January 23: Conservation of Biodiversity in Protected Areas: Opportunities and Challenges, Conference India

January 29: 11th International Conference on Humane Habitat (ICHH) 2009, Conference India

http://www.archnet.org/calendar/

Digital Cities

New London Architecture, The Building Centre
26 Store Street
London, USA

Munio Weinraub & Amos Gitai – Architecture and Film in Israel
Pinakothek der Moderne
Munich, Germany
Now to January 25, 2009

Bauhaus 1919 & 208;1933: workshops for modernity
The Museum of Modern Art
New York, NY, USA
Now to January 25, 2009

Challenges of Urban Architecture – Design and Engineering of Construction Companies
Museum of Modern Art Saitama
Saitama-ken, Japan
Now to January 25, 2009

Building Sustainable Communities
Danish Architecture Centre
Copenhagen, Denmark
Now to January 29, 2009

The RIBA President’s Medals Student Awards
V&A RIBA Architecture Gallery
London, SW7 2RL England, United Kingdom
Now to January 31, 2009

More updates: http://www.architectureweek.com/cgi-bin/calendar.cgi?e

What is a Studio House?

Andie Wicaksono — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 10:10:39 +0000

People who stay in big cities with much activities today desperately need more space. Unfortunately, in some of the big cities of the world, there are lack of empty space that can be built and its price has just rapidly increased.

So, the needs of additional space today can be done in a vertical way, not just by acquiring land for property horizontally, but also with the addition of spaces in the line of terraced housing. This is of course makes some impact on the changes of the people’s lifestyle inside. These examples can be seen in the form of studio housing types.

This type of housing is a large room which is empty without a partition as part of the strata building units. This room can be used for various activities. In Indonesia, this type of dwelling can be found in many forms, from the smallest to the largest unit row houses, apartment units, and Condominiums.

The difference between this three types of housing is about the graded as follows: in apartment, each level of floor has two or more dwelling units. While in Condominium, the floor can only be filled with one dwelling unit. Another thing to consider is, condominium also referred to as the ‘luxurious or strata title residential’. Condominium unit is lot more expensive than the price of apartment units, because Condos have been arranged only to be filled with only one single dwelling unit for each level of the floor.

Apartments can be distinguished from their price, prestige, and completeness of the facilities inside. Flat house is cheaper than apartment from the selling price and rental rates, but the facilities inside each flat are not as complete as an apartment. Usually Condominium or apartment is already well equipped with the interior furniture (all-in), and also has been equipped with air conditioning systems (AC), which is set in a central, while the flat house does not have such facilities.

The Limitation of space and the era of progress and technology was already make changes in the use of residential spaces of this studio house. In addition to use besides for resting or sleeping, people can do lots of different types of activity in this house, such as studying, working on tasks, and even have office in this type of housing. People today just use their tools: notebook and modem while lying on a soft mattress, and can perform various activities; online shopping, transaction in banking, monitoring the stock prices, or even later can control the world away from this room.

Roman Architecture on Indonesian Urbanscape

Vicky Ariyanti — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 20:12:06 +0000

Architecture has evolved from ancient time to now in many different forms and functions. One thing we have to understand that they all come from a simple understanding of ‘space’.

As New Year had just passed, which is also a form of Roman culture invested in our life, festivities are bound to take place on all earth surface; fireworks, parties, heavy conjunctions, shopping activities and so on. So, what’s this got to do with architect as a profession?

As an architect in this era, our responsibilities mounted as high as a mountain, we are the core development on earth. We need to look back in history as a reminder on Roman Architecture, which is profoundly shaping the urban scape in many cities of the world. Whether we see it as a facade on a house, a building with functions, the roman style has been implemented as classical style that is easily to be detected; massive structure of columns, heavy and bulky forms, and high ceiling. In contrast with this form, we now have high demands to meet special requirements such as: Eco-friendly architecture.

In some parts of the world this type of roman style is not needed, they would look strange and astray in totally different culture. Although so, heritage of the old colonial time in Indonesia, has left us many Dutch architecture which has a root on Roman style in some ways. They now stand as marks, but ridiculously there are some examples that try to imitate this style in totally new buildings. These inconsiderate moves will create foreign and fake feeling to the surrounding. We should know better, than recreating a Disney world into our own culture. What would be my advice to young architects out there, use your creativity to meet the clients request, without leaving out your own culture.

Happy New Year 2009!!!

May this year will bring happiness, good lucks, and success to all of us.