Located in the underdeveloped region of Lombok, Indonesia, this project represents the first phase of a broader master plan to revitalize an existing school campus. Responding to the region’s tropical climate and cultural heritage, the design integrates passive cooling strategies, locally sourced materials, and vernacular architectural principles to create a sustainable and contextually rooted living environment for students. The building orientation follows an east-west axis, minimizing direct solar exposure and reducing heat gain. The large, encompassing roof, constructed from bamboo and locally sourced straw thatching, serves as both shelter and facade, enhancing shading while allowing for natural ventilation through a carefully designed gap between the roof and main structure. Operable shades and air gaps in non-loadbearing walls further optimize airflow, reducing reliance on artificial cooling systems and ensuring a thermally comfortable interior.
Material selection prioritizes embodied carbon reduction and local craftsmanship. The primary load-bearing structure is concrete, while walls are built from locally sourced brick and wood. The extensive use of bamboo—a rapidly renewable material—demonstrates a commitment to sustainable construction techniques, supporting both environmental responsibility and the local economy. The community actively participated in construction, fostering a sense of ownership and engagement while transferring knowledge of traditional building methods.
Inspired by Lombok’s vernacular architecture, the first floor is elevated, drawing from the Berugak, a traditional communal platform integral to local culture. This space functions as a shaded social area for lounging and dining, reinforcing a strong community-oriented environment, while also mitigating ground moisture and humidity. The interior design incorporates Indonesian art, preserving cultural identity, while the integration of prayer spaces on the second floor reflects respect for local religious practices.
Beyond serving as a student dormitory, the building operates as a guest house during the summer, generating revenue for the school’s long-term sustainability. This dual-purpose function strengthens financial viability while promoting eco-tourism and educational exchange programs. The project’s regenerative approach extends to landscape interventions, with native plants and palm trees forming a buffer zone along the public road, enhancing privacy and reinforcing the ecological integrity of the site.
By prioritizing environmental adaptability, cultural heritage, and social inclusion, the design sets a paradigm for future development, creating a well-planned, resilient, and sustainable learning environment that fosters both education and community empowerment.