The Banjar Traditional House: A Masterpiece of South Kalimantan Architecture
In the heart of South Kalimantan lies a remarkable architectural heritage known as the Banjar Traditional House. Most famous among its many styles is the Rumah Bubungan Tinggi, or the High-Roofed House. Named for its sharp 45-degree roof angle, this structure is also called Rumah Ba-anjung due to the presence of its unique pavilion-like wings.
The iconic Bubungan Tinggi: A blend of sharp angles and spiritual height.
History and Cultural Evolution
The distinctive form of the Banjar House began to take shape during the 16th century. This era marked a significant turning point when Prince Samudra embraced Islam and took the title Sultan Suriansyah. Originally a long, narrow house, the structure evolved as additional "pavilions" or anjung were attached to the left and right sides, creating the grand silhouette we see today.
By 1850, these houses became a central part of the Sultanate’s palace complexes, particularly around Martapura. While the Sultan lived in the Rumah Ba-anjung, the surrounding complex featured specialized buildings:
- Palimasan: To store the Sultanate's treasures like gold and silverware.
- Balai Laki: The residence for the Sultan's ministers.
- Balai Bini: Living quarters for the palace staff.
- Gajah Manyusu: Reserved for close relatives of the Sultan.
Constructing with Nature: The Woodcraft Mastery
Living in the lush environment of Kalimantan, the Banjar people mastered the use of wood—the most abundant and suitable material for their climate. The construction of a Rumah Banjar is traditionally divided into four main parts:
- The Main Body: The primary skeleton of the building.
- The Anjung: The signature side pavilions.
- Bubungan Tinggi: The sharp, steep-pitched roof forming a 45-degree angle.
- Sindang Langit: The elongated front roof section.
A Journey Through Rooms: The Hierarchical Levels
The interior of the house is an oblong space divided into rooms with varying floor levels, each serving a specific social function:
- Palatar: The front porch where guests are first welcomed.
- Panampik Series: Divided into Small, Middle, and Large rooms, where social hierarchy dictates how far a guest may enter.
- Palindangan: The heart of the home where the family sleeps, supported by the Tihang Guru (main pillars).
- Padapuran: The kitchen and washing area at the very back of the house.
Preserving a Fading Legacy
Since the 1930s, the construction of new Banjar-type houses has declined significantly due to high costs and the scarcity of suitable wood. While many original structures still stand in villages like Sungai Jingah and Teluk Selong, they face the challenges of modern living and maintenance.
The beauty of these houses lies in the intricate woodcarvings known as Papilis. Adorning the eaves and walls with motifs of flames and flowers, these ornaments are more than just decoration—they are the final "soul" of the Banjar traditional home.
Read: The Architectural Heritage of South Sumatran Traditional Houses
The Banjar Traditional House is a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual depth of Kalimantan's ancestors. Studying its architecture is a journey into Indonesia's glorious past.
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