Regionalising Contemporary Architecture in a Case of Global South: Masjid Raya Sumatra Barat in West Sumatra

Abstract

We usually perceive architecture as an object. A constant object in which we, architects, put a message into: a message that brings out the reason of its existence per se. This has been happened for years up to the moment. Pyramid, for example, was built to deliver the message of eternality, while Pantheon was for the mightiness. Even in the practice of regionalism, however, where the context and people aspects should be fully considered, architects still treat architecture as an object.

Nevertheless, I believe that architecture is not merely an object. It is a very dynamic process, particularly in relation to regionalism in which people and culture interactions are embodied. To show that architecture is a process, not mere an object, is the purpose of this paper. This paper discusses the process of regionalising Masjid Raya Sumatra Barat, the Great Mosque of West Sumatra, Indonesia which was built in 2007.

In this sense, architectural regionalism is seen as a process, where discussion between society and design can be occurred. The process has started since the idea of having a provincial mosque was initiated, to the present time, after it was built and occupied by the people. I understand that the social process of regionalism in Masjid Raya emerges in two ways. First is formulating design’s references which best represents the local. This is important due to its task: to be the platform of regional representation. Thus, understanding the essence of local culture and how the society sees themselves should be carefully considered by the experts. Second, socialising the work is another key to succeed. Continuous socialising by the experts is an attempt to legitimise the mosque as part of the community due to its distinctive and controversial visual qualities compared to the surroundings.