Inventory Evaluation of Decorative Elements of Traditional Malay’s Houses: Rumah Limas Johor (RLJ)

Abstract

Within traditional Malay buildings, the presence of decorative elements reflects the convergence of functionalism and architectural aesthetics. Its ornamentation, shape and pattern reflect the uniqueness of local craftsmen and master carvers; particularly within woodcarving and bamboo weavingDescribed as non-structural and "additional" constructing members, there are at least 16 decorative characteristics of the traditional Malay house. recognized by the earlier research fellow.There are TunjukLangit, Sisik Naga, SulurBayung, Ande-Ande, Pemeleh, KepalaCicak, TiangGantung, LebahBergantung, Kekisi, Gerbang, GerbangPintuSesikuKeluang, PagarMusang, KepalaPintu and KepalaTingkap. Traditional houses have been classified architecturally in Malaysia based on roof structure, spatial organization and geographical context, which have finally been named after the states.Every traditional house in the state of Malaysia signifies the specific state style and architectural featuresThis article describes the research on the traditional Malay houses in Johor State known as RumahLimas Johor (RLJ) of these decorative elements.In order to study the form, terms, and features of decorative elements, site findings were made on chosen 27 RLJ houses situated across the district of Muar, Tangkak and BatuPahat.For the establishment of architectural terminology and typology based on the type and design of each decorative item, inventory research on visual data and verbal data was performed.The study concluded that the significant characteristics of RLBP were 7 decorative elements; often with different names, shapes, and styles from other states. These similarities and dissimilarities contribute to enriching Malaysia's traditional house's aesthetic theory and philosophy.