RJ House by Rakta Studio in Bandung, Indonesia

Project: RJ House
Architects: Rakta Studio
Location: Bandung, Indonesia
Area: 6,996 sq ft
Photography: KIE

RJ House by Rakta Studio

The RJ House is a luxurious modern residence located in the upper district of Bandung, Indonesia. This magnificent home creates nearly 7000 square feet of luxurious living spaces integrated with external areas, while maintaining a high level of privacy from the bustling street. The project was developed by Rakta Studio, whose works you may have already seen on our site since we've previously published their PJ House and BP House projects. If you haven't seen them yet, be sure to check out their work — you'll love it too.

Located in the upper district of Bandung city, this gray box architectural object stands out notably on the street of an elite residential cluster, distinguishing itself from neighbors with rough-exposed concrete and precise edges. This semi-detached house oriented toward the east consists of a stack of concrete boxes with a flexible galvanized iron plate, detailed wooden lattice as the main facade point, giving it contrast in material. Besides creating a bold spatial depth through the stacked boxes on the facade, the dynamic composition provides an unique space and welcoming sequence of the house.

The home's external terrace consists of a wooden platform, a fish pond with green plantings such as shrubs and vertical gardens that create a tropical, warm, and cozy atmosphere. This unique wooden lattice composition makes the external terrace a safer and more confidential zone while also providing good shade. Composed of two separate internal courtyards, it ensures excellent ventilation and natural lighting, which is ideal for our hot tropical climate. The courtyard also offers a semi-open terrace with a wooden pergola as the ceiling, where residents enjoy an unobstructed view of surrounding greenery.

The first floor becomes a smooth family and friends gathering space to meet, dine, and socialize in one open area with large sliding glass doors. When fully opened, the first floor becomes a seamless transition between the internal and external spaces of the house. The staircase is made from exposed steel timber combined with a tick for steps, creating a warm and bold atmosphere. The upper level provides more private zones such as the master bedroom, children's rooms, desk area, upper living room, and prayer room.

Three elements — exposed concrete walls, wood, and greenery — are present throughout the house, closely connecting them to the client's stated requirements — minimalism, nature, earthiness, and impact. The balance of materials sets a balanced exterior appearance. Since greenery softens the sharp edges of the stacked boxes, exposed steel timber and wood complement these materials overall.

–Rakta Studio