Ngumpar House is brought with a hypothesis that starts with:
1. How to approach an angled and irregular site?
2. How to protect the house from the harsh western sun?
Located at the end of a quiet street on a 300 sqm plot, the house is arranged through a 12 x 17 m layout such that it provides a good thermal performance and comfortable atmosphere.
Therefore, a buffer is introduced as a garden at the start. Residents are welcomed by a lush tropical garden and pool, providing a shelter against the western sun. They are guided by a ramp for a journey for the senses, circling the garden with a view of the pool. The pool at the entrance assists passive cooling through evaporative effect, lowering the ambient temperature before one enters the house. The garden is an integral part of the house itself, making up to 6% larger than the main living area.
At the heart of the home lies a 70 sqm open living room, anchored beneath a generous 127 sqm vertical void. Above, a 40 sqm skylight reinterprets the traditional Javanese ‘tumpang sari‘, drawing inspiration from the spatial spirit of the joglo. Natural light penetrates through layered gaps, as warm air rises and escapes. The living area opens toward greenery with the help of the extended bedrooms cantilevering above, effectively lowering ambient temperatures by 3–5°C. The central staircase acts as the house’s spine, encouraging airflow and visual connection between family members across levels.
Curved forms expand the spatial perception of the compact site, creating fluid movement and softness. Large circular opening of 40 sqm, such that in the master bedroom help blur the boundary between interior and landscape. Handcrafted details, such as railings of iron and local ulin wood, along with arched doorways are made by RAW local artisans, who has been working with the studios for 14 years.
June 10, 2025
Realrich Architecture Workshop
Realrich Sjarief
