Exploring an Architectural Gem of Indonesia: The Toraja Houses

Introduction

Broeder, H. 2019. Torajan Houses. [Photograph]

Having a rich history in tribal culture, Indonesia has one of the largest tribal settlements scattered across the country on various islands. This is significant in terms of understanding the vernacular architecture of the region, and as such, one of the prominent vernacular architectural styles is the Tongkonan style house or the Toraja houses built by the Torajan people. These houses have a deep and rich history and symbolism that thrives even till today and makes this traditional abode a marvel to see by tourists who come and visit the region. Not only is the symbolic relevance apparent through the form of the houses but the residential design is built around these symbolic reverences due to which it possesses its distinct physical appearance.

Toraja Houses- What makes them so different?

Hemis. 2018. Toraja House. [Photograph]

These traditional houses are famous for their distinct form. The curved shape of the roof which resembles a boat along with the use of vernacular materials such as bamboo makes this house stand out as a national emblem of Indonesia. Although these houses as such have a very simple floor plan that may house a typical family, what makes them stand out is the conceptual history behind the ultimate amalgamation of the house itself. The symbolic reverence that the house holds is what makes it so sacred for the tribal settlements of Indonesia and in modern times is seen as a national treasure.

The Toraja House has a unique shape that corresponds to the shape of a boat that is evidently seen through its rooftop. This type of house is a pile-built structure with characterizable cantilevered roofs with eaves that are supported on freestanding posts located at the front and rear sides of the curved roof. The house has a life history of its own as it is a symbol of Indonesian minorities. As it is a traditional housing unit, the house has a specific focus on ritual activities as well.

As the house has a very imposing roof structure that gives the house typology its distinct individuality, the dramatic saddle-backed roof is usually decorated with ornamental panels with traditional motifs. These houses are usually built next to rice granaries and may appear to be scattered settlements across a sea of green rice, which happens to be the main profession of the indigenous people residing in these houses.

The symbolic elements of the Toraja Houses

Rigamonti, A. 2010. Household in Toraja Village with rice field.

Being ancestral structures, that have survived for us to see in the 21st century as symbolic anchors that served as focal points of congregation over the years for various traditional rituals such as the celebration of birth, death, and harvest. These Toraja houses also serve as rice storehouses and reception platforms for their traditional ceremonies.

GmbH, Z. Hamlet with Tongkonan House and rice granary in the mountains of Tana Toraja. [Photograph]

A very important design element for these houses is the orientation of the houses. Symbolically, these houses were placed in a north-eastern direction on the façade, and conversely, the rear of houses, was placed along with a south-west orientation as it denoted important elements of the spirit world as per their traditional beliefs. For the Toraja people, the cardinal directions used for the placement of the house are revered in their spirit world. The north is associated with the ‘life-giving waters of the Sada’an Rivers’ whereas the east resonates with the concept of a rising sun that favors an agrarian settlement, another important element that connects the dwelling unit with the rice granaries. Since the front of the house opens on the north-east side that overlooks the rice granaries, this is also symbolic of well-being and prosperity. The rear of the house facing the south side is associated with death and the realm of spirits.

rickDsign, 2016. Toraja House wall pattern. [Photograph]

The decorative panels that are used to decorate the roof of the Toraja house are another prominent external design element that gives these houses their distinct character. Ornamental patterns incised in wooden panels decorating the roof, these designs are laden with symbolic relevance as well. Most of these geometric patterns relate to the traditional metaphorical social relationships and norms. Common motifs used include the water buffalo which denotes strength and social status. The other motif which dominates these wooden decorative panels is ‘rice’ which depicts prosperity and longevity and circular motifs that represent power. It is interesting to note that these ornamental motifs could only be carved out by the members of the Toraja society belonging to a higher social status.

Color is another visual element that gives these heritage homes a unique outlook. The colors used to decorate these houses are the four primary colors of the Toraja tribes i.e., Red, White, Black, and Yellow. These colors generically represent life and death as per their local customs and ceremoniously decorate the houses.

Internal layouts and their functionality

Manurang, P. 2017. Interior space of Tongkonan. [Excerpt]

The internal planning of the Toraja house is also mapped along these abstract concepts to further heighten and substantiate the sacred value system of the Tongkonan tribe. Compared to the overpowering external structure with the sweeping roof, the internal structure of the house is very minimalist in nature and not too expansive. Interior spaces are mostly intended for sleeping, storage, meeting, and shelter.

Hemis, 2018. Toraja House, Rantepao Area [Photograph]

All in all, these dwelling units are reflective of the rich cultural history that is preserved for the modern-day people to see as a global emblem of Austronesian-based indigenous architecture. It is a reinforcement of preserving ethnic identity and working towards conserving the historical architectural marvels to inspire future generations.

References

Manurang, P. (2017). Daylighting and architectural concept of traditional architecture: The Tongokonan in Toraja, Indonesia.