Andre William Pattikawa and Ruben Betarushi helm LOCALIC, an architectural and interior design nexus that weaves Indonesian tradition with contemporary design elements, established in 2018 in Jakarta and Yogyakarta. Their practice champions an architecture that dialogues with its setting and elevates user experience through sustainable and culturally resonant designs.
LOCALIC stands out for its commitment to integrating environmental sustainability and local materials within the design process, ensuring each project aligns with modern aesthetics and embodies ecological and cultural sensitivity. This approach results in spaces that are not just structures, but experiences—rich in local identity and crafted to enhance communal and environmental well-being.
The studio’s significant projects like Srasadesa Restaurant underscore their ethos: to forge spaces that bridge global design trends with local craftsmanship, fostering a symbiotic relationship between new creations and the indigenous landscape. This philosophy secures LOCALIC’s position at the forefront of a movement that respects heritage while innovating for the future, making it a cornerstone of contemporary Indonesian architectural dialogue.
What inspires you?
At Localic Studio, inspiration comes from various sources, but a lot of it is drawn from our travels. Visiting different places and experiencing their unique spaces influences our design approach. We are deeply interested in how people interact with environments and the memories created within them. Our goal is to create similar emotional connections through our work, designing spaces that evoke memories and experiences tied to the places we’ve encountered.
What inspired you to become an architect?
We are inspired by the profound impact that thoughtful design can have on people’s lives. A well-designed space can significantly enhance the quality of life for its inhabitants, reshape daily habits, encourage healthier and more sustainable lifestyles, and foster a sense of comfort and well-being.
How would you describe your design philosophy?
Our design philosophy revolves around creating spaces that are functional yet deeply meaningful and responsive to their context. We prioritize a human-centered approach, ensuring each design decision enhances the comfort, well-being, and lifestyle of the occupants. We aim to craft spaces that foster connections—between people, nature, and the built environment—through thoughtful use of natural light, ventilation, and materiality.
What is your favorite project?
Our favorite project is the Srasadesa Restaurant. This project transformed our client’s business and became a culinary icon for the city, blending local cultural elements with a contemporary aesthetic. It’s fulfilling to know our design has uplifted the local economy and enhanced the city’s reputation.
What is your favorite architectural detail?
At Localic Studio, we focus on creating spaces with excellent functionality, emphasizing natural lighting, airflow, and cross-ventilation. We incorporate many thoughtful details throughout our work to enhance the overall space experience, aiming for a harmonious, sustainable, and engaging environment.
Do you have a favorite material?
We often use concrete for its versatility, strength, and timeless appeal, but we always seek materials that are local to the project site. This approach enhances the connection to place and contributes to the sustainability of the design by reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
What is your process for starting a new project?
We begin each project with a deep understanding of the site, the client’s vision, and the context. A thorough site analysis helps us identify opportunities for natural light, ventilation, and views, ensuring the design is responsive to both the physical and environmental context.
How do you balance function and creativity in your designs?
Functionality is the foundation of our designs, ensuring each space serves a purpose and is efficient. We then infuse creativity, considering the emotional and aesthetic impact of the space, and iterate to ensure the balance between function and creativity remains intact.
How does the environment influence your work?
The environment is crucial in shaping our design approach. We view each site as unique, with its own natural and cultural influences guiding the design process. We incorporate passive design strategies and local materials to optimize energy use and celebrate local culture.
How do you collaborate with clients to achieve their vision?
Collaboration is essential. We start with in-depth conversations to capture their goals and desires, translating their vision into design concepts through sketches and 3D visualizations. We maintain constant communication and provide expert guidance to ensure the final result reflects the client’s vision and is practical, sustainable, and tailored to their needs.
What inspired Srasadesa Restaurant?
The concept for Srasadesa Restaurant was to evoke the warmth, simplicity, and tranquility of village life. We used bamboo extensively to reflect the local culture and enhance the restaurant’s connection to the environment, creating a space that stands as a modern interpretation of traditional craftsmanship.
How did materiality shape the design and sustainability of Srasadesa Restaurant?
Materiality was crucial in shaping the design and sustainability of Srasadesa Restaurant. We used locally sourced bamboo for its aesthetic qualities and sustainability, treated to endure over time. This approach supported our sustainability goals and added a layer of historical context to the project.
What advice would you give to young architects?
Be aware of the impact your designs have. Make thoughtful choices, considering the temporality of our work and aiming to ensure that designs have a meaningful impact while they last.
