Reinterpreting Traditional Balinese Architecture Through  Tri Hita Karana for Sustainable Spatial Development

Ngakan Ketut Acwin Dwijendra

doi:10.59890/ijist.v4i4.303

Authors

Ngakan Ketut Acwin Dwijendra Universitas Udayana

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59890/ijist.v4i4.303

Keywords:

Tri Hita Karana, Balinese Architecture, Sustainability, Cultural Resilience, Spatial Planning

Abstract

This study explores the reinterpretation of traditional Balinese architecture through the philosophical lens of Tri Hita Karana (THK) as a framework for sustainable spatial development. THK emphasizes the harmonious relationship between humans, nature, and the divine, offering a culturally grounded sustainability paradigm. The research adopts a qualitative interpretive approach through spatial ethnography, semi-structured interviews with traditional Balinese architects (undagi), document analysis of Asta Kosala Kosali, and field observations in heritage sites. Spatial mapping and thematic coding are applied to analyze the integration of ecological, social, and spiritual values in architectural forms. The findings reveal that traditional Balinese spatial configurations inherently support passive environmental strategies, including natural ventilation, daylighting, water management, and social cohesion. However, contemporary architectural practices often reduce these principles to aesthetic elements, neglecting their deeper spatial and philosophical meanings. This study proposes a “Contextual Harmonization Model” that integrates indigenous wisdom with modern sustainability frameworks. The model contributes to the discourse on cultural sustainability and offers a practical design approach for architects, planners, and policymakers in the Global South.

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