ARCHITECTURE Archives

Area : 1,000 m²

Category : Residential

Appointment date : November 2022

Location : Surabaya, Indonesia

A home should serve as a rejuvenation haven after a long day of activities outside. This is why every house is unique, designed to reflect the needs and character of its residents.

Located within Surabaya’s residential in East Java, Indonesia, stands a family residence designed to foster cohesion and connectivity across generations. The three-story abode is constructed with a commitment to preserving familial bonds and facilitating the seamless transmission of family culture through time.

The ground floor serves as a sanctuary for the esteemed elders—the grandparents—providing easy access and featuring amenities such as a pool and mini gym room to maintain their health. Ascending to the second level reveals a domain tailored to nurturing the second generation—the parents—where contemporary comforts harmonize with familial warmth. Finally, the third story beckons to the youthful energy of the youngest members—the children—offering a dynamic space conducive to entertainment and growth.

Through this intentional architectural stratification, privacy is respectfully upheld for each generation, while the interconnectedness of the family unit is perpetuated, ensuring the enduring legacy of shared stories and cherished memories.

Immersed in a monochromatic ambiance, the residence fosters a tranquil, distraction-free environment, purposefully providing inhabitants with a blank canvas upon which to paint the colors of their daily lives.

Keywords: Architecture, Interior Design, Architect Indonesia, Architect Surabaya, Arsitek Indonesia, Arsitek Surabaya

Area : 500 m²

Category : Residential

Appointment date : 2023

Location : Kab. Tangerang, Indonesia

From One Corner Onward.

The project began as a modest renovation: the homeowners wished to add height and volume to a corner of their backyard to create a small pavilion for domestic staff. However, as discussions unfolded, the scope gradually expanded. The owners decided to revisit several parts of their home, including two bedrooms, the living and dining areas, and the front section of the house.

We approached the redesign by considering their daily habits—identifying what could be retained, what needed expansion, and where adjustments would bring more clarity and comfort. The goal was to introduce a calm, simple design while reducing visual and spatial clutter throughout the home.

As lifestyles and routines shifted, the former front room—once used to receive guests—was transformed into a music room, enhanced with shelving, a shoe cabinet, and mirrors on the opposite wall. A timber partition subtly separates this space from the living room, allowing light and air to pass through. A blank wall is left open for future use—whether for a TV, artwork, or simply to let the space breathe.

To accommodate a growing family, the dining area was expanded for a 10-person table, with integrated wall cabinetry for added storage.

On the ground floor, the first bedroom features a soft, neutral ambiance. It includes a two-person desk, a compact walk-in closet with a dressing table, and a bay window that brings in daylight while creating a quiet reading nook. This room serves as a flexible space—either for the children when visiting, or as a guest room for their parents.

The second bedroom upstairs is larger but retains a similar soft tone. As an ensuite room, it also includes a desk with ample compartments. The layout is divided into two zones: one for rest, the other for flexible use—allowing the room to evolve with future needs.

Lastly, the previously unused backyard was converted into a dry, covered space with a clear glass roof. It now serves multiple functions—light gardening, home workouts, or casual gatherings—designed to support indoor comfort while maintaining a connection to the outdoors.

Though the project began with a single corner, it gradually unfolded into a broader response to a family’s changing needs—offering a reshaping of space that values flexibility and comfort over time.

Keywords: Architecture, Interior Design, Architect Indonesia, Architect Surabaya, Arsitek Indonesia, Arsitek Surabaya

Area : 200 m²

Category : Residential

Appointment date : 2021

Location : East Java, Indonesia

Welcome to the C-House No.6!

A home designed for a young family, where light, air, and open spaces come together to support everyday routines and shared moments.

The first space you encounter after passing the carport is the front room, designed as a welcoming area. This room maintains a strong connection to the outdoors through the continued use of exposed red brick, allowing the exterior material palette to seamlessly carry into the house.

Moving deeper inside, the living room is filled with natural light and styled with a neutral color palette that emphasizes openness and calm. When the sliding doors are open, a warm breeze flows in as the family enjoys their favorite shows together.

The living room, back terrace, and backyard are linked by wide sliding doors, creating a smooth transition between indoor and semi-outdoor spaces. This layout supports various family activities—from casual gatherings to weekend barbecues. The backyard brings in greenery and provides a dedicated play area for the children, while a reflecting pool at the far end enhances the sense of tranquility.

Access to the second floor is through a staircase topped with a skylight, brightening the vertical transition. Upstairs, the private areas are arranged around a balcony featuring windows designed to mimic Venetian blinds—allowing cross-ventilation while maintaining privacy.

At the top of the house, a rooftop garden adds another layer of green, serving as an ideal extension for fresh air and shared time under the open sky.

This house is shaped to support everyday living, where design quietly nurtures comfort, light, and connection.

Keywords: Architecture, Interior Design, Architect Indonesia, Architect Surabaya, Arsitek Indonesia, Arsitek Surabaya

Area : 84 m²

Category : Public space

Appointment date : February 2024

Location : East Java, Indonesia

Tucked among forest trees, a monastery approached us to explore the possibility of relocating an old toilet facility. Originally built as a temporary structure for construction workers during the monastery’s development, the toilet had been placed near a sacred site—an arrangement never intended to be permanent. Today, the facility serves the gardeners who maintain the surrounding landscape.

After a series of discussions, a new location was agreed upon—within a denser part of the monastery’s greenery, where the structure would remain discreet and blend into the natural setting.

The new facility is defined by a low stone boundary and features an open plan. In addition to the toilet, it includes a storage room for gardening tools and a dedicated space for a rocket stove. Some portions of the structure use ventilation blocks to allow airflow, while others are built with stone to provide solidity and a natural character.

The design also accommodates a small resting area where gardeners can pause and recharge during their workday.

Though modest in scale, the project reflects a quiet sensitivity to function, context, and the people who tend to the land.

Keywords: Architecture, Public Space Design, Public Facility Design, Architect Indonesia, Architect Surabaya, Arsitek Indonesia, Arsitek Surabaya

Area : 180 m²

Category : Residential

Appointment date : May 2022

Location : East Java, Indonesia

As written in one of the occupants’ favorite books:

Every second of every day, we are choosing, and there are always alternatives. In today’s society, as the number of options increases, the effort required to make a good decision escalates as well. This is one of the reasons why choice can transform from a blessing into a burden. Learning how to satisfice is an important step not only in coping with a world of choice but also in simply enjoying life.

With that in mind, the occupants—a young couple with two kids—have decided to go back to basics and embrace simplicity in their home design and listen to every imperfection and impermanence that nature brings, as well as the optimism it carries. The intention is to create a sanctuary where they can momentarily escape from the incessant proliferation of options that seems to lead to the raising of expectations while trying to be grateful everyday by readjusting their own expectations towards this modern world.

From the carport, which serves the dual purpose of providing space for one car and two motorcycles and functioning as a playful playground when the vehicles are not present, one can have a view of the dining room, elegantly framed by a glass window. Adjacent to the window, a floating bench was placed to beckon individuals to partake in moments of tranquil indulgence, where they can bask in the radiant glow of the morning sun while being gently caressed by a refreshing breeze.

The façade looks enclosed while the inside of the residence is abundantly illuminated due to its generous provision of openings.

Upon entering the house, one’s gaze is immediately drawn to the expansive living room that seamlessly extends into the interconnected spaces of the dining room and kitchen. Designed with an emphasis on openness and fluidity, these areas effortlessly merge, creating a harmonious flow throughout the house. Adorned with sleek sliding doors, the living room provides a captivating view of the inner garden, establishing a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor area.

The inner garden acts as an integral part of the house. Located in the center side of the building, it links all the rooms together. This integration of indoor and outdoor spaces not only enhances the visual appeal of the residence but also invites a sense of tranquility and rejuvenation into the living experience.

In accordance with the focus on providing a neutral canvas upon which the occupants can weave their unique everyday stories, only a couple of materials are used in this project. This harmonious blend of natural elements creates an idyllic setting, inviting one to savor the serene ambiance and embrace the present.

Keywords: Architecture, Interior Design, Architect Indonesia, Architect Surabaya, Arsitek Indonesia, Arsitek Surabaya

Category : Competition

Submission date : September 2024

Held by : YAC (Young Architects Competitions)

A path of intersecting lines leads pilgrims, each carrying the lights and shadows of their own journey, toward this sacred place, the complex of Saint Peter in Tuscania. Balanced in light and shadow, the new transient spaces are conceived as a response to embody self-discovery while honoring the church’s legacy. These spaces reflect the duality of human nature, creating a quiet dialogue between past and present.

As one enters the church area, a path leads toward these new transient spaces. These masses consist of two opposing materials: dark solid timber cladding and light translucent polycarbonate sheets, which filter light to create an ethereal interplay of shadow and illumination, mirroring the process of self-discovery and divine connection experienced by pilgrims who struggle through earthly trials while guided by divine light.

The shape of these masses does not mimic the church, but instead simplifies its form to its most essential elements. Juxtaposed with the church’s architecture, the contemporary spaces draw attention to the present while maintaining deep respect for the past.

To establish a coherent dialogue between the new masses, the church, and its surroundings, the masses are intentionally designed to be humble and restrained. Detached yet indirectly attached, they do not seek to overshadow the site’s historical significance but rather offer a complementary layer that enhances the experience of the existing architecture.

Designed to be temporary, the structures leave minimal impact, as they do not touch the ground and are fully removable. While the physical elements may be dismantled, the spiritual transformation within the pilgrims leaves a lasting impression.

Keywords: Architecture, Interior Design, Architecture Competition, Architect Indonesia, Architect Surabaya, Arsitek Indonesia, Arsitek Surabaya

Category : Competition

Submission date : November 2024

Held by : Ikatan Arsitek Indonesia Jawa Timur Wilayah Malang

Brawijaya Terrace is not merely a place of learning—it is a symbol of a collective journey toward a sustainable and innovation-driven future.

This design is inspired by two core ideas. First, that education begins at home, as the family forms a child’s first learning environment. Thus, formal educational institutions in society are seen as an extension of the home, where individuals gain knowledge, skills, and social experiences that complement what they learn within the family. Second, the existing terraced topography of the site recalls the image of terracing—a system designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing land productivity. The fusion of these concepts—the home and the terraced land—gives rise to a “house of education” that is alive, green, and sustainable.

Considering solar orientation, landform, spatial programming, and the architectural principle of head-body-foot, Brawijaya Terrace is oriented north-south, equipped with wide canopies and porous façades to optimize natural lighting and ventilation while providing protection from heat and rain splash.

As a place that unites people, nature, history, and knowledge, the design embraces biophilic principles that harmonize architectural elements with the surrounding environment. From the green steps on the south side and the green spaces on the west, to the climbing plants adorning the upper façade, this concept introduces active greenery throughout the campus, fostering a reflective and interactive learning atmosphere.

As the terrace of the ‘multi-level house’, the community staircase on the south side connects the first to the fourth floors, offering a space for socializing and outdoor collaborative activities. Meanwhile, the terraces on the west and east sides provide additional open collaborative spaces that support a variety of activities among members of the academic community.

The spatial program is arranged to enable flexible and open interaction areas, supported by porous façades that allow natural light and airflow. Meanwhile, the indoor learning spaces are designed to be transparent to maximize daylight and ensure easy access during campus visits or open house events—without disrupting ongoing learning activities.

Ultimately, this campus becomes a vessel that nurtures life—both for the natural environment and for the people within—creating an atmosphere that is active, inclusive, and sustainable.

Keywords: Architecture, Interior Design, Architecture Competition, Architect Indonesia, Architect Surabaya, Arsitek Indonesia, Arsitek Surabaya

Area : 78.000 m²

Category : Public space

Appointment date : 2021

Location : Kediri, East Java, Indonesia

More than just a park, this place serves as a natural “charging station”—where both body and mind can pause for a moment and recover from the rhythm of urban life.

Green open spaces play a vital role in city life—not only ecologically, as the city’s lungs and environmental stabilizers, but also as places for recreation, reflection, and social interaction. Located on Jl. Ahmad Yani in Kediri, Tirtayasa Park stands as one of the city’s green oases, offering a variety of public amenities—from a swimming pool and jogging tracks to a golf driving range.

During the pandemic, when access to public spaces was limited, the park became a subject of reflection regarding its role and condition. The management team conducted a series of evaluations and ultimately proposed a revitalization program to refresh both the function and appearance of the park. ETAN Studio was invited as a design partner to help shape this new direction.

Conversations with the management led to a design approach grounded in respect for existing natural elements—preserving the mature trees and long-established vegetation. Priorities included restructuring the circulation routes to be more integrated and accessible, introducing new amenities that reflect the needs of the surrounding community, and repurposing the swimming pool area into a more relevant function. A notable feature of the park is a small lake continuously fed by a natural spring—an ecological and visual asset the design sought to preserve.

With these considerations in mind, the park was organized into three primary zones: front, middle, and rear. The front zone is the most active, hosting recreational and sports facilities, a gallery, and commercial areas for food and beverage tenants. The middle zone is a flexible community space designed to accommodate events such as weddings, concerts, bazaars, and internal football matches. The rear zone offers a quieter experience, with a driving range and flower garden. A jogging track encircles the park, connecting all three zones and blending harmoniously with the landscape. Ample parking is also available within the park to support visitor convenience.

The revitalization of Tirtayasa Park represents a modest yet meaningful step toward creating a healthier, more inclusive, and restorative urban environment. Ultimately, a truly successful public space is not just about aesthetics—it’s about how effectively it adapts to the evolving needs of the people it serves.

Keywords: Architecture, Landscape Design, Public Space Design, Architect Indonesia, Architect Surabaya, Arsitek Indonesia, Arsitek Surabaya

Area : 200 m²

Category : Residential

Appointment date : February 2022

Location : Medan, Indonesia

Function and belief intertwined, with every nook and cranny filled with purpose and meaning to its own kind.

Located in a residential area consisting of identical houses, except for the one on a corner lot, there are some rules and restrictions that must be complied with. Built right next to a house on a corner lot, this not-so-identical dwelling was granted a slight freedom to have some minor changes to its facade due to its slightly wider land compared to its other siblings. However, it still followed the rules to keep most of its original facade design as best as it could. The new extension has been added mostly to the side and rear, creating a careful balance of old and new, while accommodating their needs and belief.

The house spans three stories, features two outdoor living spaces, and includes one multipurpose room with a two-layered door. As you step through the front door, you will be greeted by a cabinet that runs from one end of the space to the other, giving the effect of a clean and streamlined foyer.

An open-plan kitchen extending to the dining room adds a sense of spaciousness and brightness, providing a space for families and friends to share meals and stories. One side of the dining room faces the stairs, which are intended to be one of the focal points of the house.

Despite the requirement of space planning for a certain number of rooms, a detached area was still able to be included. The presence of this semi-outdoor corridor allows streams of light to enter and brighten up the foyer, kitchen, dining area, and piano studio.

It’s a careful adjustment—within limits—to fit how the family actually lives.

Keywords: Architecture, Interior Design, Architect Indonesia, Architect Surabaya, Arsitek Indonesia, Arsitek Surabaya

Area : 44 m²

Category : Residential

Appointment date : January 2024

Location : Jakarta, Indonesia

Located in Jakarta, this home enjoys a rare privilege—a serene river view right from the backyard. To make the most of this scenic advantage, we collaborated with the homeowners to transform the rear of the house into a versatile activity room for the whole family.

This back room on the first floor opens directly onto the river-facing yard. Designed with large openings to welcome in natural light, it serves as a multifunctional space where everyone can enjoy the view. A ceiling fan helps keep the room comfortable and breezy, even when the air conditioner is off.

To complement the lush surroundings outside, the interior adopts a neutral, minimal palette—both in color and material—creating a peaceful atmosphere within. It’s a space where parents can work from home or unwind after a long day, while children play, study, or practice the piano, all to the gentle backdrop of the river.

By framing the river view and allowing flexible use, the space becomes both a design response and a lived experience.

Keywords: Architecture, Interior Design, Architect Indonesia, Architect Surabaya, Arsitek Indonesia, Arsitek Surabaya