Visual Character Study of Bung Karno’s Exile House in Bengkulu
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Abstract
Bung Karno's Exile House in Bengkulu is a nationally protected cultural heritage site that served as the temporary residence of Indonesia's first president during his political exile from 1938 to 1942. Despite its historical significance, no comprehensive documentation currently exists of the building's visual and spatial character, even though such documentation is essential for guiding ongoing conservation efforts. This study aims to identify the building's visual character through its scale, proportion, architectural style, and detailing, with particular attention to the spatial elements that constitute these dimensions. A qualitative approach was employed, combining direct field observation, photographic documentation, and semi-structured interviews with the site manager, conservation experts, and tourism officials, supported by relevant literature on the visual dimension of the built environment. The findings indicate that Bung Karno's Exile House exhibits an Indische Empire architectural style, characterized by the integration of European spatial proportion and symmetry with Chinese decorative elements—most notably geometric vent ornaments and door motifs. This stylistic blend reflects the building's layered historical use and underscores its significance as a site warranting continued conservation attention.
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