Exploration of Bamboo as Vernacular Material in Residential Furniture Design
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37134/kupasseni.vol14.sp.8.2026Keywords:
Bamboo, Vernacular, Furniture Design , Residential InteriorAbstract
For centuries, bamboo has held a vital role in Indonesia’s traditional construction, furniture, crafts, and even musical instruments. However, bamboo remains underutilized within urban consumer segments. This can risk the decay of traditional Indonesian craftsmanship. The study aims to explore the application of bamboo material in interior and furniture construction by producing lightweight, multi-functional furniture that respects the cultural context of Indonesia. The research highlights Desa Jambu Kulon in Ceper, Klaten, a prominent bamboo crafts center in Indonesia, where we found insights into the potential and challenges of bamboo products. The study first identifies the characteristics of bamboo, including its biology, aesthetic, economic, social, and environmental aspects. It is found that bamboo's renewability, flexibility, and durability have made it applicable for earthquake-prone areas like Indonesia, and its natural aesthetic enhances the space, bringing warmth and a sense of connection to nature. Moreover, design exploration was made for a residential interior project that created 8 furniture that is made entirely out of bamboo. Each piece of furniture is inspired by traditional philosophy and pattern. The result demonstrates that bamboo can be a suitable vernacular material for residential interiors that fuse cultural heritage and incorporate multifunctional modules for maximizing space that meets the standard of modern practicality.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Luh Made Ratna Nirmala Smaradewi, Ni Putu Ayu Dinda Paramitha, Zulfarahman Ruby Rabiulawal, Pandu Purwandaru
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