Andra Matin brings Indonesia's architectural legacy to the global stage

Andra Matin, who has consistently elevated Indonesia’s architectural repertoire, explains how he designs buildings that are beautiful and innovative.

Known among his peers and admirers as mas Aang, Andra Matin is an architect who has made a reputation for himself through the way beautifully integrates Indonesian culture and history into his designs. Driven by a nationalist spirit, his traditional designs meld with modern styles, creating simple yet impactful works of art. Furthermore, he constantly prioritises environmentally-friendly building designs and emphasises sustainable concepts.

Andra has gained global recognition for his works and he has also won various awards, including the Aga Khan Award for Architecture 2022, the Indonesian Architects Association Award, the Venice Architecture Biennale, and many more.

Not too long ago, Prestige Indonesia had the opportunity to chat with Andra about his achievements and views on architecture in Indonesia.

One of your best-known works is your design for the Blimbingsari Airport, for which you won the 2022 Aga Khan Award. Can you tell us a bit about the project and the award?
Receiving that award was astonishing because it exceeded our expectations.

When Mr. Azwar Anas asked me to help create an airport gate for Banyuwangi, I tried to delve into the city’s values and culture. I wanted the local community to feel a sense of belonging and gradually develop a sense of pride. I considered the fundamental principles of architecture, such as utilizing the climate to conserve energy and utilising local materials.

And then, years later, the airport received the award. I was very grateful because it meant that there was appreciation for effort and hard work by all involved parties to create a structure that was differs from the typical airport design.

The architectural design of Blimbingsari Airport is said to be a major contribution to the Muslim community in the area. Can you elaborate on this?
The construction of the airport had a wide-ranging social, economic, and cultural impact on the Banyuwangi community, the majority of whom are Muslims. The new airport has improved tourism and increased public interest in visiting the area. This is further supported by Banyuwangi’s diverse natural beauty and the local community’s openness to change and innovation.

The presence of Blimbingsari Airport has made it easier for Muslims in the Banyuwangi community to perform Umrah or the Hajj. They can fly directly from Banyuwangi to Jakarta and then on to Jeddah without needing to travel overland to Surabaya first. This has increased their enthusiasm for worship because it is more convenient and practical. Additionally, at Blimbingsari Airport, there is a waving gallery where passengers can interact with their families and friends who are seeing them off.

“Indonesian architecture is incredibly diverse from a cultural and historical perspective, making it one of the most varied in the world.”

At the Aga Khan Award, Banyuwangi Airport was chosen as one of six winners from among 20 finalists. What does this mean for Indonesian architects on the global stage?
Indonesian architecture is incredibly diverse from a cultural and historical perspective, making it one of the most varied in the world. However, this rich heritage is not widely recognized or appreciated by many Indonesians, and only a few Indonesian architects have drawn inspiration from our heritage for their designs.  Of course, this background offers a huge potential for us to create modern yet culturally rooted architecture, enriching the world’s architectural repertoire.

On a more general note, how do you find inspiration for your designs?
Almost every aspect of my daily life can inspire me: books, music, travel, art, movies, photos, writings or articles, and talks.

How would you describe your approach to design?
Personally, I prefer subtle and simple things that hold deep meaning. They may appear ordinary on the surface, but they reveal complexity and depth upon closer examination.

Can you share with us the “mandatory” elements you always infuse into your designs?
The potential of the site, the client’s desires, the celebration of our tropical climate, and the use of local materials.

We noticed that you implement open space into most of your designs. What is the significance of this element for you?
Open spaces, both indoors and outdoors, provide flexibility and comfort. They respond well to the tropical climate, which is characterised by wind and sunlight for most of the year.

What, would you say, are the two most meaningful achievements so far?
In 2018, at the Venice Architecture Biennale, I was invited by the curator to design one of the main exhibition spaces. The event showcased the works of renowned architects from all over the world, all of whom I greatly admire. After the exhibition, the booth I designed, which highlighted the uniqueness of Indonesian vernacular architecture with various elevations, was received an Honourable Mention award.

The second would be how the Blimbingsari Airport project in Banyuwangi was awarded the Aga Khan Award for Architecture 2022. This award is significant because it recognizes the efforts of all parties involved in the project, including our studio team, Mr. Azwar Anas as the assignor, the Angkasa Pura team, the Department of Transportation, and the Banyuwangi community.

How do you see the current design scene in Indonesia? Especially with regards to new talents and architectural trends that are emerging…
I am very optimistic about the young architects of Indonesia. It seems that more and more of them are realising and appreciating their culture and the tropical climate. They are responding positively through the use of open spaces and material selection. In addition, the quality of young architects is also keeping up with international standards, as can be seen from publications and social media.

The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.

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