Lattice Creative Garden / RAD+ar – Sustainable Bioclimatic Architecture in Jakarta

Located in the bustling heart of Jakarta, Indonesia, Lattice Creative Garden by RAD+ar (Research Artistic Design + architecture) is a groundbreaking commercial project redefining sustainable urban architecture. Spanning 3,000 m², this 2025 project, photographed by Ernest Theofilus, demonstrates how contemporary design can merge bioclimatic principles with ecological responsibility, offering an innovative model for future city development.

Bioclimatic Design Inspired by Traditional Latticework

The project draws inspiration from the historic latticework of Indonesia, a traditional architectural feature that has long provided passive cooling in tropical climates. RAD+ar reinterprets this lattice design to create a modern, high-performance shading system that functions as both climate control and a visually striking architectural element. By integrating dual coding, function and symbolism, the lattice becomes a sustainable icon, blending cultural identity with contemporary urban aesthetics.

Parametric and Recycled Materials

The lattice facade is crafted from recycled plastics, sourced from Jakarta’s SCBD weekly waste output. Using 4,800 kg of plastic, the project generates 16,800 Lattice Plates, highlighting Indonesia’s plastic waste crisis while promoting circular design. Parametric modeling was used to produce undulating forms that dance among existing 20-meter tall trees, providing calculated solar protection, promoting natural ventilation, and reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems.

Harmonizing Architecture with Nature

Rather than treating the landscape as secondary, RAD+ar reverse-engineered the building massing around preserved trees, covering only 40% of the ground. The design introduces porous terraces, garden ramps, and breezeways, allowing arboreal growth while maximizing commercial leasable space. This creates a fluid dialogue between nature and architecture, seamlessly blending sustainable urban design with functional, rentable areas.

Passive Design and Energy Efficiency

Lattice Creative Garden explores energy stewardship by employing passive design strategies. Thermal chimneys, decoupled facades, and meandering ramps replace conventional mechanical systems, significantly reducing air conditioning and elevator dependency. This approach demonstrates that environmentally responsive design can coexist with high-value commercial objectives, offering a blueprint for sustainable development in rapidly growing urban economies.

A Prototype for Sustainable Urban Living

As a commercial architecture prototype, Lattice Creative Garden evaluates tenant behavior, environmental responsiveness, and urban microclimate strategies. Its innovative approach combines bioclimatic architecture, recycled materials, and landscape integration, establishing a new standard for green commercial spaces in Jakarta and tropical megacities worldwide.

All the photographs are works of Ernest Theofilus