The traditional design of Balinese homes follows ancient architectural guidelines that offer significant psychological benefits. In these homes, residents wake up in cool private bedrooms, stroll through tropical gardens to the kitchen for breakfast, and enjoy it in open pavilions as the sun rises. This concept not only utilizes local wisdom and environmental knowledge but also regulates temperature, provides access to greenery, and promotes privacy and communal living. It serves as a blueprint not just for global green design but also provides real support for the physical comfort and mental health of its occupants.
Traditionally, Balinese homes are part of complexes used jointly by several families with kinship ties. This complex includes separate pavilions for private bedrooms, family spaces, ceremonial activities, kitchens, granaries, and family worship places. Green spaces between the buildings create a sense of ownership and camaraderie passed down through generations. The connection between home design and mental health is established through a shared sense of ownership, creating spaces that promote relaxation and well-being. Communal living and relationships with the residence also contribute to this sense of ownership, providing a stimulating place to return to, fostering a sense of continuity, stability, and permanence. The importance of privacy is also emphasized, giving residents control over their environment and encouraging convenience and relaxation.
As we approach 2050, estimates show that approximately 280 billion square meters worldwide will be covered by buildings, primarily in Asia. These new buildings, especially in urban areas, tend to be vertical, increasing loneliness due to a lack of social interaction. Building design becomes crucial, not only for energy efficiency but also for improving the well-being of its inhabitants. Balinese traditional homes have maintained their style using local materials, inspiring sustainable building designs that consider health, well-being, and human experience.
The design of these homes consists of several buildings surrounding an open courtyard. This design allows for adequate airflow, improving indoor temperatures, especially beneficial for mental health in Bali’s hot and humid climate. Daily home design creates a positive cycle by maintaining comfortable temperatures. The use of open pavilions without walls in front of bedrooms allows natural light to enter, promoting connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces. Thoughtful placement within the complex creates space for gardens, reinforcing mental health through visual connections with nature.
Gaps between building walls and complex perimeters reduce noise pollution from traffic in front of the house. Well-chosen landscapes and vegetation significantly reduce noise levels inside and outside the complex. Buildings facing the courtyard create a sense of security from external influences, with small gates and low walls providing privacy and security. Before implementing modern building strategies, it’s crucial to revisit past approaches, preserving local values and history while leveraging current technology. This knowledge, coupled with technological advancements, not only enhances aesthetics but also contributes to healthier homes, healthier occupants, and a healthier population.
Bali Homes, Traditional Design, Home Design