The Bale Traditional House is a traditional dwelling of the Sasak people in Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB), particularly on the island of Lombok. The term "Bale" in the Sasak language means "house." There are various types of Bale, such as Bale Tani (farmer's house) and Bale Lumbung (rice barn), each reflecting specific functions in the life of the Sasak community. The Bale house embodies the Sasak people's simple lifestyle, enriched with philosophy and local wisdom. Its design is tailored to the tropical environment, maintaining a harmonious relationship between humans, nature, and their ancestors.
Distinctive Features
Structure :
The Bale house is built on wooden stilts, with floors made of bamboo or compacted clay. Its materials include natural resources like bamboo, wood, thatch, or coconut leaves for the roof. The roof has a pointed shape to facilitate rainwater drainage and ensure proper ventilation.
Room Layout :
Berugak: An open structure in front of the house, used for receiving guests, relaxing, or family gatherings. Main Room: Serves as the primary living space for the family, often without partitions. Kitchen: Located at the back of the house, separated from the main room to maintain cleanliness and reduce the risk of fire.
Ornaments :
Bale houses are typically devoid of excessive ornaments, reflecting the Sasak community's philosophy of simplicity. Natural colors from materials like bamboo and wood contribute to a natural and harmonious aesthetic.
Philosophical Meaning
The Bale Traditional House reflects the philosophical values of the Sasak people:
- Simplicity: The house symbolizes the modest and contented lifestyle of the community.
- Harmony with Nature: The use of natural materials reflects respect for the environment and ecological balance.
- Togetherness: The house layout fosters closer family connections and communal relationships.
- Spirituality: The design represents reverence for ancestors and the spiritual values of the Sasak community.
Functions of the Bale Traditional House in Daily Life
- Residence: The house serves as a comfortable and environmentally friendly dwelling.
- Social Hub: The Berugak serves as a gathering space for interacting with family and neighbors.
- Storage for Agricultural Produce: Certain types of Bale, like Bale Lumbung, are used to store harvested crops such as rice.
- Cultural Preservation: The Bale house symbolizes the cultural identity of the Sasak people and is continually preserved.
- Tourist Attraction: The Bale house has become part of NTB's cultural tourism, attracting visitors eager to learn about Sasak traditions
