INFOBUDAYA.NET — At the northernmost tip of the Indonesian archipelago, in the province of Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam, stands one of the most recognizable traditional houses: the Rumoh Aceh. More than just a physical structure, Rumoh Aceh embodies a way of life, with its design deeply influenced by religious values, and environmental awareness.

Built entirely of wood and raised on stilts, the Rumoh Aceh typically stands about two to three meters above the ground. This design is not merely aesthetic but deeply functional. The raised floor provides protection from wild animals, floods, and damp soil, while the space beneath, called yup moh, serves multiple purposes. Children might play there, women weave songket, and farmers store crops or tools. In the past, it also functioned as a space to shelter livestock or as a small stall for selling goods. The layout of the house reflects a clear distinction between public and private spaces. The front veranda, known as seuramoe reungeun, is where guests are welcomed, children learn to recite the Quran, and social gatherings or kenduri are held. Moving further in, the main room, rumoh inong, sits elevated slightly higher and houses the family’s private quarters. Two bedrooms usually flank a narrow hallway: one for the head of the household and the other reserved for an unmarried daughter. At the back is the seuramoe likot, where household activities like cooking or storage take place, often in an adjacent kitchen area.

Interestingly, Rumoh Aceh is constructed without a single nail. Instead, wooden components are joined using traditional pegs and interlocking systems, allowing flexibility in the face of earthquakes and making it possible to disassemble and rebuild the house if needed. The roof is thatched with woven sago palm leaves, chosen not only for their availability but for their ability to regulate indoor temperature, keeping the house cool in the tropical climate. Various wooden beams and support structures such as tameh, rok, thoi, and gaki tameh work together in a highly efficient framework. Each element has a name and role, reflecting the deep knowledge of structural design passed down through generations.

The aesthetic appeal of Rumoh Aceh lies in its intricate wood carvings, which serve both decorative and symbolic purposes. Motifs commonly seen include Islamic calligraphy and celestial symbols like the moon and stars, usually placed on the triangular ventilation panel known as tulak angen. These carvings emphasize the deeply religious character of the Acehnese people. Other patterns are inspired by nature—flowers, leaves, vines, and birds—reflecting the region’s close relationship with the environment. Particularly notable is the pucok reubong motif, representing a bamboo shoot. This symbol captures the idea of growth and transformation, as life begins humbly and progresses with resilience. Motifs like bungong kipah (fan-shaped flowers) or depictions of birds express ideals of beauty, hospitality, and harmony.

Every detail in Rumoh Aceh is layered with meaning. The house always faces east with its back to the west, ensuring that one of its sides aligns with the direction of Mecca. This design choice makes it easier for residents and guests to orient themselves during prayer. The stairs leading into the house always have an odd number of steps, a detail rooted in Acehnese belief that odd numbers possess special spiritual properties. The entrance door is deliberately made low, so anyone entering must bow their head—a built-in gesture of respect toward the household. Even the color scheme holds symbolic weight. Yellow, often used on the house’s triangular facade, symbolizes strength and optimism. Red represents passion and vitality, while green signifies fertility and peace. White denotes purity, and orange reflects warmth and mental well-being. These color choices aren’t just aesthetic—they’re a reflection of the values and emotions the house is meant to foster.

Despite its rich architectural and cultural significance, Rumoh Aceh is becoming increasingly rare. Many Acehnese families now opt for modern houses built with cement and steel, which are quicker and cheaper to construct. While modern homes may offer certain conveniences, they often lack the philosophical depth and environmental harmony found in traditional dwellings. Fortunately, some efforts have been made to preserve Rumoh Aceh. Museums and cultural centers in Banda Aceh still showcase original houses. Local artisans and architects continue to study and promote traditional building methods and design elements, ensuring that the knowledge is not lost. To preserve Rumoh Aceh is to preserve the soul of Aceh itself, and more broadly, to celebrate the enduring wisdom and diversity of the Indonesian archipelago.

References:

PDBI – Rumoh Aceh

PDBI – Rumoh Aceh