Sunyoto House emerges from a hypothesis: “Can a home in a sprawling 800-900 square meter garden lot harmonize a family’s diverse needs, wheelchair accessible, blending Javanese simplicity with spaces for connection, hobbies, and community?” Positioned on a site with north-south orientation, open to the north and south near the neighbor’s entrance, with an open right side and west-facing front, the design maximizes natural light and airflow while fostering familial and cultural ties.
The client, a Javanese elder with children abroad, envisioned a home that accommodates family reunions while supporting his passions and community role. The design prioritizes adaptability: a single-story layout houses the elder’s living quarters, hobby spaces, and a communal area for prayers, while a second floor, accessible by lift, provides private suites for visiting children and their families. The architecture draws on Javanese tumpang sari principles, featuring a simple, relaxed skylight that bathes the interiors in soft light, creating a serene atmosphere.
At the heart of the design is a spacious workshop for the client’s hobbies—nurturing fish, frogs, turtles, and dogs—integrated with a nursery for his cherished plants and animals. The nursery extends to a rooftop concrete deck, designed to support plant growth with ample sunlight and drainage. The layout flows seamlessly: an outdoor foyer welcomes guests, leading to an indoor foyer that connects to a central garden. This garden links to the maid’s quarters and the elder’s community space, fostering connectivity.
Gaps along the side walls ensure privacy, prevent leaks, and allow natural light to filter through, enhancing the home’s airy feel. The architecture remains understated, with clean lines and local materials like exposed brick and bamboo accents, reflecting Javanese simplicity. The garden envelops the home, creating a tranquil sanctuary where plants and animals thrive alongside the family.
April 9, 2025
Realrich Architecture Workshop
Realrich Sjarief
