Transformasi dan Kontinuitas Pengetahuan Lokal pada Hunian Vernakular Melayu

Abstract

Vernacular architecture is identical to the local architecture, built with local knowledge owned by the local community. Deli Malay vernacular dwelling is one of the local architectures in North Sumatra. Currently, its existence is starting to be displaced by the presence of new buildings with a modern style. These Malay vernacular dwellings are already difficult to find in Medan City. The existing conditions are quite concerning, so it is feared that in the future the existence of Malay vernacular dwellings will become extinct. Transformation is certainly unavoidable, along with the passage of time these Malay vernacular dwellings also have changed. The development of science and technology has an impact on changing the mindset and lifestyle of the dwellers of Malay vernacular houses, which also affects the local knowledge it has. There is no research that examines local knowledge in this Malay vernacular dwelling, so this research is necessary in order to explore the local knowledge of the homeowner because even though there is a transformation in the dwelling, the continuity of the spatial and physical elements of the dwelling is still maintained. The purpose of this research is to find the influence of local knowledge development on the transformation and continuity of the Malay vernacular dwelling. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach, with data obtained through documentary methods, observation, structured interviews, and visual materials. Analysis was conducted by comparing the results of observations, interviews, and visual materials (photos and sketches), based on the theoretical framework of local knowledge, transformation, and continuity. This study also calculated the quality of local knowledge of homeowners. The percentage obtained from this calculation is used to describe the level of local knowledge from generation to generation. The transformation of local knowledge occurs due to changes in the mindset and lifestyle of homeowners. This condition affects the transformation and continuity of the Malay vernacular dwelling which can be seen from the spatial elements in the new units, such as the continuity of space patterns, as well as the orientation of the placement of the sleeping room. From the analysis that has been done, it is found that the continuity of vernacular dwellings occurs because of the desire to maintain family heritage, parents (mothers) who still live in the dwelling, and as an effort to maintain an identity as ethnic Malay.