IDTraditional Architecture Survives in the Modern Era: UPJ Architecture Students' Visit to Kampung Naga
Bintaro, South Tangerang, 24/07/2024 – On June 6, 2024, students from the Architecture Study Program at Universitas Pembangunan Jaya (UPJ) class of 2022 conducted an educational visit to Kampung Naga, West Java. This activity is part of the Vernacular Architecture course, designed to provide direct experience and a deeper understanding of Indonesian vernacular architecture.
Kampung Naga, known for its well-preserved and authentic cultural heritage, is an ideal location for students to directly study the principles of vernacular architecture. During the visit, students had the opportunity to observe and study the building structures, spatial layouts, and traditional construction techniques that are still preserved by the Kampung Naga community. They saw how traditional houses are built using local materials and environmentally friendly construction techniques.
In this visit, students were accompanied by Architecture lecturer Ratna Safitri, S.T., M.Ars., who provided in-depth explanations about the importance of preserving traditional culture and architecture. "This visit not only provides academic insights but also enriches students' understanding of cultural values and architectural techniques that have stood the test of time," she said. "We hope students can apply the knowledge they gain from Kampung Naga through the principles of local wisdom in designing contemporary architecture that also focuses on environmental sustainability," she added.
The students' enthusiasm was evident throughout the visit. Kharisma Fajar Umbara, one of the participating students, expressed his gratitude and joy for this opportunity. "This is a very valuable experience. We learned a lot about how traditional architecture can adapt to its surroundings and remain relevant to this day," Kharisma said.
In addition to observing buildings, students also interacted with local residents to gain a deeper understanding of their daily lives and how they maintain their cultural heritage. The residents of Kampung Naga shared stories about the philosophy behind each architectural element and the spatial layout of their village, reflecting harmony with nature.
This activity is expected to inspire students in designing buildings that are not only modern but also respect traditional values and local wisdom. "We want UPJ Architecture students to understand that architecture is not just about aesthetics but also about how buildings can contribute to sustainability and cultural preservation," added Mrs. Ratna.
Through their visit to Kampung Naga, Universitas Pembangunan Jaya students had the opportunity to see firsthand how the principles of vernacular architecture are applied in real life. This experience is expected to become a valuable asset in their academic and professional journeys in the future, as well as inspire them to continue exploring and preserving Indonesia's rich architectural heritage.
Written by: Kharisma Fajar Umbara (2022101025) | Student of Architecture Department
