TSDS interior architects reuses timber waste with 'oikumene church' in indonesia

TSDS interior architects realizes ‘oikumene church’ with an expressive use of timber in east kalimantan, indonesia. the design team favors a single material as a whole space creator, allowing for the sole use of locally sourced materials. the architectural concept is drawn from the ‘rumah betang,’ a traditional dwelling of the native dayak people, which takes the form of a long hall. the timber is sourced from local industry, making use of waste material in respect for the natural environment. the façade of the church is expressed with rimba wood, while the interior is finished with meranti wood, a strategy which creates a natural harmony.

all images by mario wibowo

TSDS interior architects builds the ‘oikumene church’ in response to the needs of a worship place for the local residents and plantation workers of east kalimantan. situated along the region’s highest point, the church is sited with an east-west orientation. the interior and structure is designed to counter the extreme daytime heat. keeping the interior comfortable, a ‘jack-roof’ strategy enables a passive system of cross ventilation.

in keeping with local and traditional values, the scheme is humbly integrated with the region’s design language. the most expressive elements of the project are found in its details and wood fabrication. these elements are a testament to the attention to craft by the designers and construction team. while the team works only with natural materials, precision and attention to moisture content is of great importance.

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project info:

project title: oikumene church

architecture: TSDS interior architects

location: sajau, east kalimantan, indonesia

client: kayan makmur foundation

engineering, construction: emuna design

lighting consultants: orly lighting

photography: mario wibowo