JAKARTA - Building a house in Indonesia which is in the Ring of Fire area (ring of fire) requires us to be smarter in choosing materials. Now, the trend of housing is not only about paint colors or aesthetic furniture, but also about resilience - how far our house is able to protect its occupants when a disaster occurs such as an earthquake.
In a recent discussion with the Indonesian Architects Association (IAI), experts agreed that steel is now the "new hero" in safe and stylish modern home design.
1. Light Roof, Calm Heart
Have you ever noticed why many houses in Sumatra use metal roofs? Ar. Georgius Budi Yulianto, Chairman of IAI, explained that the use of metal or light steel materials on the roof is crucial for earthquake mitigation.
Unlike clay tiles which are heavy, steel materials are light and flexible. In a scenario of an earthquake, the light construction load reduces the risk of fatal collapse. So, choosing a steel roof is not only about style, but about giving extra security to the family below.
2. Modern Design Without Losing Traditional "Soul"
Many homeowners are concerned that the use of steel will make the atmosphere of the residence feel stiff or like a factory. In fact, the reality is quite the opposite. Modern steel technology is very flexible and can follow the philosophy of traditional Indonesian houses.
"Our traditional houses, such as the Gadang House or Toraja, actually use the principle of earthquake-friendly flexibility (without nails)," said Ar. Firman Setia Herwanto. This "flex" principle turns out to be very suitable for the nature of steel which is precise but adaptive. You can still have a house with ethnic nuances, but with a much more sturdy and durable steel structure.
3. Build a House Faster with the "Unpack and Install" System
One of the most favored advantages of steel in the home living world is its modular or knockdown nature. This means that parts of the house can be prepared quickly and assembled on site in a short time.
This system is very helpful if you want to build an additional pavilion, school, or even a house in a quick time without having to deal with prolonged cement construction dust.
4. Become a Trendsetter at the ASEAN Level
The innovation of the use of steel in this residence is also beginning to be recognized internationally. Through the Steel Architectural Awards ASEAN 2026 event, Indonesian architects are challenged to create a house design that is not only timeless, but also resilient in the face of natural challenges.
Tips for homeowners:
Choose Quality Steel: Make sure the steel material has a good protective layer (coated steel) to be rust-resistant, especially for tropical areas.
Consultation with Architects: Ask your architect to explore exposed steel structures for a modern and spacious industrial impression.
Choosing building materials is a long-term investment. By switching to lighter and more durable materials such as steel, we are building a future of housing that is not only beautiful to look at, but also the safest refuge for loved ones.
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