Distracted House: Contemporary Joglo-Inspired Family Residence by Ismail Solehudin Architecture in Jakarta

Nestled in Jakarta, Indonesia, the Distracted House by Ismail Solehudin Architecture is a 420 m² residential project completed in 2023, harmoniously blending traditional Indonesian vernacular design with contemporary functionality. Captured through the lens of photographer Mario Wibowo, this home showcases a thoughtful transformation of the classic joglo roof, creating a space that is simultaneously communal, spiritual, and intimately connected with nature.

The project responds to the unique needs of a large extended family while integrating Islamic values into daily living. The client’s desire for a home suitable for congregational prayer, accommodating dozens of family members at once, guided a key design decision: rotating one of the rooms to face the qiblah. This intentional “distraction” reoriented the spatial layout, producing a dynamic flow and a distinctive character in both the building’s form and interior atmosphere.

The communal areas, including the open-plan kitchen, dining, and family room, seamlessly extend into the prayer room, allowing flexible congregation spaces. Organic remnants of the site’s natural topography were retained to form green spaces, dry gardens, and natural ventilation sources, ensuring abundant daylight and airflow. These spaces act as passive environmental systems, enhancing comfort while reinforcing the home’s connection to nature.

Architecturally, the joglo-inspired roof forms the centerpiece of the building, with multiple soaring berunjung elements and sloped sections that shade terraces, carports, and interior areas. The house integrates vernacular materials such as clay roof tiles, exposed brick, cement, wood, and natural stone, balancing local tradition with modern design aesthetics. Mezzanine systems optimize vertical space for seven permanent residents and occasional extended family visits without expanding the footprint.

This project exemplifies a modern Islamic family home, marrying traditional Indonesian architectural heritage with contemporary living requirements. The Distracted House is not only a functional family residence but also a thoughtful expression of cultural identity, spirituality, and environmental responsiveness.

All photographs are works of  Mario Wibowo