Badak Heuay: Traditional Sundanese Roof Style and Architectural Heritage
Badak Heuay is often a topic of humor in modern society. However, Badak Heuay is actually a traditional roof style of Sundanese houses in West Java, Indonesia. The term “Badak Heuay” refers to a roof design that resembles a yawning rhinoceros, which in Sundanese is called “calawak.”
The Unique Shape of Badak Heuay Roof
The Badak Heuay roof structure features an upward extension at the back, which is then connected to the front in a sloping manner. Unlike other roof types, the back roof is positioned higher than the front, creating a unique asymmetrical design. This makes it slightly similar to another traditional Sundanese roof style called “Tagog Anjing.” The key difference between them is that the “Tagog Anjing” roof connects the front and back sections seamlessly, while “Badak Heuay” does not.
Various Sundanese Traditional Roof Styles
Besides Badak Heuay, there are several other traditional Sundanese roof designs, including:
- Parahu Kumereb (an overturned boat shape)
- Julang Ngapak (resembling a bird spreading its wings)
- Tagog Anjing (similar to a sitting dog)
- Capit Gunting (scissor-shaped)
- Jolopong or Suhunan Panjang (a long and simple rectangular roof)
Traditional Sundanese Houses: A Reflection of Local Wisdom
Historically, most houses in Sundanese villages were built as stilt houses or “Imah Panggung.” These homes were constructed using natural materials such as stone, wood, bamboo, and thatch (ijuk or ilalang). The structural components of traditional Sundanese houses reflect their deep connection with nature and local wisdom.
Some key architectural features include:
- Batu Tatapakan: Foundation stones carved into blocks to support wooden pillars.
- Palupuh: Bamboo flooring raised above the ground, creating space underneath that was commonly used for storing livestock such as chickens, ducks, or geese.
- Pasagian: Wooden beams supporting the house’s structure.
- Bilik Walls: Woven bamboo walls that provide ventilation and flexibility.
- Palang Dada: Crossbeams connecting the main pillars.
- Sarigsig Windows: Wooden or bamboo slats placed vertically for ventilation, often found in kitchens.
- Hawu Stove: A traditional clay stove for cooking, usually placed under a wooden rack for drying firewood.
- Golodog: A wooden bench attached to the entrance of the house.
The Architectural Legacy of Kasepuhan Ciptagelar
One of the best-preserved examples of traditional Sundanese architecture can be found in Kampung Kasepuhan Ciptagelar, Sukabumi. This village remains deeply rooted in Sundanese traditions, particularly in housing construction and spatial planning.
The houses in Ciptagelar are known for their sturdy structure, having withstood natural disasters such as earthquakes and storms for centuries. The architectural layout follows a terraced or nyengked (sengkedan) design, categorizing buildings into three sections:
- Are (Lower Area) – Typically used for farming and livestock.
- Leuir (Upper Area) – Reserved for sacred or special structures.
- Siger Tengah (Middle Area) – The residential zone where most houses are located.
The strict adherence to these architectural principles ensures the sustainability and resilience of Ciptagelar’s traditional homes.
Read More:
Sundanese Architecture: Traditional Beauty Rich in Meaning
Conclusion
The traditional Sundanese architecture, particularly the Badak Heuay roof design and the housing structures in Kasepuhan Ciptagelar, reflects a deep cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations. These designs are not only aesthetically unique but also highly functional, allowing homes to adapt to natural conditions while preserving environmental harmony.
Understanding and preserving these architectural traditions is essential for maintaining Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and ensuring that future generations appreciate the wisdom embedded in traditional Sundanese house construction.
