Archipelago Horizons: Narratives & Topographies of Indonesian Architecture explores the Indonesian Archipelago as a fluid, interconnected, and multifaceted spatial and cultural condition, approached through the lens of architecture. It seeks to move beyond orthodox academic frameworks, reductive theories, and uncritical pragmatism, engaging instead with the conceptual and operational strategies employed by both academics and practitioners. The aim is to investigate how architecture can act as a critical tool for intervention within a context distinguished by its profound cultural, social, environmental, and economic complexity.
The series will be structured around three thematic webinars and a keynote lecture, convening leading Indonesian architectural firms and scholars to address pressing and timely issues. Topics will include interpretive frameworks for analysing contemporary Indonesian architecture, the adaptive responses of practitioners to local realities, and transformative ecological strategies that respond to the urgent challenges of climate change. Each session will conclude with an interactive Q&A to foster meaningful academic dialogue and professional exchange.
WEBINAR TIMETABLE
Session 1: In search of a common ground: Cultural Layering in the Indonesian Landscape
Time: May 12, 2025, 18:30–20:30 (China) | 17:30–19:30 (WIB)
This seminar seeks to unearth interpretive tools for analyzing the key elements that shape contemporary architectural production in Indonesia. By examining the cultural, historical, and spatial layers embedded within the Indonesian landscape, the discussion aims to identify shared frameworks and recurring narratives that inform current design practices. The seminar positions cultural layering not only as a lens for understanding architectural expression, but also as a critical foundation for constructing a common ground across diverse local contexts.
Opening Speech
Professor John Zhou, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Ningbo China
Dr Edward Cooper, Head of Department, Department of Architecture and Built Environment
Guest Speakers:
Professor Abidin Kusno, York’s Centre of Asian Research (YCAR). Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University
Dr Ing. Yulia Nuriani Harahap, Architecture Department, Universitas Indonesia
Professor Indah Widiastuti, School of Architecture, Planning and Policy Development, Institut Tecnologi Bandung
Session 2 – Keynote Speech: The Landscape of Indonesian Architecture
Time: May 13th, 2025, 17:00–19:00 (China) | 16:00–18:00 (WIB)
Andra Matin, Jakarta (link)
Session 3: Crafting Innovation, Managing Reality
Time: May 14, 2025, 17:00–19:00 (China) | 16:00–18:00 (WIB)
This seminar investigates how architectural practice in Indonesia navigates the complex interplay between innovation and contextual constraints. Focusing on projects that exemplify adaptive responses to cultural, financial, environmental, and technological conditions, the seminar highlights how such realities can become generative forces in crafting new spatial strategies, architectural languages, and user experiences. Participating practitioners are invited to critically reflect on their selected projects outlining the operational frameworks through which innovation is conceptualized.
Guest Speakers:
Âaksen Responsible Aarchitecture, Bandung (link)
Studio Kota, Jakarta (link)
Tamara Wibowo Architects, Semarang (link)
Session 4: Emerging Ecological Narratives in the Age of Climate Transition
Time: May 15, 2025, 17:00–19:00 (China) | 16:00–18:00 (WIB)
This seminar explores how architectural agency in Indonesia responds to the escalating environmental emergency by engaging with the country’s specific climatic and ecological conditions. Centering on projects that embed ecological principles as foundational design drivers, the discussion will examine architecture’s role as a catalyst for integrating strategies aimed at minimizing environmental impact, restoring degraded ecosystems, and enhancing local ecological resilience. Through these case studies, the seminar seeks to articulate emerging narratives that position design as a critical tool in the broader climate transition.
Guest Speakers:
K-Thengono Design Studio, Jakarta (link)
RAW Architecture - Realrich Architecture Workshop, Jakarta (link)
Rad+Ar, Jakarta, Ubud (link)
Webinar Information
Language: English
Format: Hybrid – online speakers, with both in-person and online audience and discussants
MS Teams Meeting ID: 426 215 677 521 4 Passcode: 9xc9KK9r
MS Teams Meeting Link