Rumoh Acèh is the traditional house of Aceh Province, reflecting the local wisdom and aesthetic beauty of Acehnese traditional architecture. This house is recognized as a type of stilt house constructed from wood with a roof made of nipa leaves or palm fiber. Rumoh Acèh generally consists of three main parts: the front veranda, the main living area, and the back veranda. It is designed to adapt to the geographical conditions and tropical climate of Aceh, which is often hot and humid.
Rumoh Acèh not only serves as a place of residence but also symbolizes the cultural identity of the Acehnese people. Today, although its use has declined, this traditional house remains a cultural heritage that is preserved.
Distinctive Features
Structure:
- Stilt House: Rumoh Acèh is a stilt house elevated 2-3 meters above the ground. The space beneath the house is often used for storing crops or agricultural tools.
- Building Materials: Made from durable wood such as jackfruit wood or merbau wood, while the roof is usually made from nipa leaves or palm fiber.
- Room Layout: The house comprises three main sections:
1. Seuramoe Keuë (Front Veranda): A space for receiving male guests.
2. Rumoh Inong (Main Living Area): A family room used for daily activities and sleeping.
3. Seuramoe Likôt (Back Veranda): An area designated for female guests or other activities.
Ornaments:
Rumoh Acèh is adorned with intricate carvings that reflect aesthetic and religious values. The carvings often feature floral motifs such as flowers, leaves, or vines, symbolizing life and beauty.
These ornaments are typically found on the walls, doors, and stairs of the house.
Philosophical Significance
Rumoh Acèh embodies numerous philosophical meanings that reflect the culture and way of life of the Acehnese people, including:
1. Harmony with Nature: The stilt structure represents harmony with the environment, providing protection from floods and ground moisture.
2. Islamic Values: The house layout reflects Islamic principles, such as the separation of male and female guest areas to maintain privacy.
3. Togetherness: The central living area is designed as a space for family gatherings, symbolizing the importance of kinship and mutual cooperation.
4. Sustainability: The use of natural, biodegradable materials demonstrates the Acehnese people's commitment to environmental sustainability.
Functions of Rumoh Acèh in Daily Life
1. Residence: Rumoh Acèh serves as a comfortable and durable home suitable for Aceh's tropical climate.
2. Center of Social Life: Parts of the house, such as the front veranda, are used to receive guests, while the main living area is a family gathering place.
3. Storage for Crops: The space beneath the house is utilized for storing rice, other crops, or farming equipment.
4. Protection from Natural Hazards: The stilt structure protects the house from floods, wild animals, and ground humidity.
5. Cultural Identity Symbol: Rumoh Acèh is a symbol of local wisdom and Acehnese traditions, passed down through generations.
