In a world increasingly characterised by rapid urbanization and global interconnectedness, the role of architecture in shaping our cities and lives has never been more pivotal. The seventh edition of Setmanes d’Arquitectura 2024, Barcelona’s esteemed architectural festival to date, served as a platform for exploring these themes in depth. Amongst the highlights was the event “Crossing Horizons: Cities in Dialogue,” held on the evening of 23 May 2024, at Roca Barcelona Gallery. This event featured an enriching dialogue between leading architects from two dynamic cities: Jakarta and Barcelona.
STORY BY Aulia R. Sungkar PHOTOS BY Roca Gallery Barcelona
“Crossing Horizons: Cities in Dialogue” was not just a meeting of architectural minds, but also a cultural exchange aimed at exploring the distinct yet interconnected architectural landscapes of Jakarta and Barcelona. Curated and moderated by Miriam Giordano, founder of Labóh, the event brought together renowned Indonesian architects Mohammad Archica Danisworo (known by his nickname Chico) of PDW Architects, Hardyanthony Wiratama (Hardy) of AlienDC, and Piter Gan of Piter Gan Architect, alongside two of Barcelona’s most influential studios, b720 Fermín Vázquez Arquitectos and GCA Architects.
The event commenced with a warm welcome from Alberto Gonzalez, managing director of Roca Indonesia, who emphasised the significance of the event in fostering global architectural dialogue. Alberto then asserted, “Roca, as a leading in the bathroom industry across Europe, recognises the diverse influences of culture, climate and lifestyle on architecture worldwide. The goal of ‘Crossing Horizons’ was to bring together top architects from different regions to inspire and engage with professional attendees, showcasing how these factors shape architectural practice.”
A Tale of Two Cities
Both Jakarta and Barcelona are vibrant cities with rich architectural histories and unique urban challenges. Barcelona is renowned for its transformative urban planning, particularly during the 1992 Olympics, which left a legacy of architectural innovation. In contrast, Jakarta grapples with pressing environmental, social and geological challenges, requiring creative solutions to enhance liveability and sustainability.
Miriam explained the motivation behind selecting these two cities for dialogue. “Both cities are very effervescent architecturally. Jakarta faces challenges to save the city from environmental, social and geological issues. The invited studios excel at creating multifunctional spaces that integrate sustainability and liveability, thus addressing the adversities of contemporary urbanisation.”
The event explored these themes through a pop-up exhibition and a series of presentations. Models, detailed drawings and plans were on display, highlighting architecture’s potential to reshape urban environments in different cultural and geographical contexts.
Architectural Insights
The discussions at “Crossing Horizons” were enriched with insights into how architects from diverse backgrounds could learn from one another. One of the key topics was the integration of sustainability into urban design. Piter noted that “whilst sustainability is a universal consideration, its application varies significantly due to different regulatory environments and market interests in Jakarta and Barcelona.” Another compelling moment was the exploration of how cultural and climatic conditions shape architectural choices. Hardy highlighted that “architecture is a universal language, thus allowing for the comparison of geographically distant projects whilst also emphasising how local conditions such as climate and transport networks influence design decisions.”
Meanwhile, Chico emphasised the importance of such dialogues, stating, “Being confronted with different points of view and contexts allows us to understand better how certain decisions and solutions are more or less appropriate concerning the unique characteristics of each territory.”
A Fitting Venue
The choice of Roca Barcelona Gallery as the event venue was no coincidence. Roca, a fourth- generation family business headquartered in Barcelona, boasts a commercial network spanning over 170 countries. The gallery, designed by the OAB Carlos Ferrater, serves as a testament to Roca’s commitment to design and architecture.
Alberto asserted that the gallery was an ideal setting for this cross-cultural architectural exchange. “It is the first of Roca’s exhibition spaces worldwide dedicated to the culture of design. It was the perfect stage to connect Barcelona with Roca Experience Centre Indonesia, our new hub for innovative bathroom concepts in Jakarta.”
Pop-Up Exhibition
The pop-up exhibition at “Crossing Horizons” contributed significantly to the overall theme of Setmanes d’Arquitectura 2024 by enhancing the festival’s international scope. Miriam noted that the exhibition attracted architects from around the world, providing them with a platform to exchange ideas and explore solutions applicable across different regions.
The exhibition included models and detailed drawings that underscored the ability of architecture to influence urban environments positively. As Barcelona looks forward to becoming the World Architecture Capital in 2026, events like “Crossing Horizons” play a crucial role in positioning the city as a hub for architectural innovation and dialogue.
A Vision for the Future
As “Crossing Horizons: Cities in Dialogue” concluded, it left attendees with a profound understanding of the power of architecture to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. The event underscored the importance of dialogue in enriching the field of architecture, fostering collaboration, and inspiring innovative solutions to the complex challenges facing our cities.
Through the lens of Jakarta and Barcelona, “Crossing Horizons” provided a glimpse into the future of urban design, where sustainability, cultural sensitivity, and collaboration pave the way for more vibrant cities. As Setmanes d’Arquitectura 2024 drew to a close, it became clear that the event had successfully bridged horizons, setting the stage for continued architectural exchange and innovation on a global scale.
Shaping Urban Landscapes
Hardyanthony Wiratama (Hardy), the founder of AlienDC, was one of three renowned Indonesian architects invited to the prestigious event “Crossing Horizons: Cities in Dialogue” at the Roca Barcelona Gallery. This event brought together architectural minds from diverse backgrounds
to explore the urban landscapes of Jakarta and Barcelona, highlighting both their contrasts and commonalities. The conversation cantered around sustainable architecture, reflecting on how these cities can learn from each other to shape future urban development. Below is an excerpt from our interview with the architect, where he shares his insights and experiences from the event.
What was your experience like participating in ‘Crossing Horizons: Cities in Dialogue’?
The experience of attending Crossing Horizons was unique, as it brought together architects from across the globe with contrasting backgrounds to discuss two very different cities. One is in a tropical country, and the other is in Europe, which is entirely different in terms of culture, climate, and perspectives on urban design. Despite their differences, Jakarta and Barcelona are both moving towards sustainable architecture.
How do you see the dialogue between Jakarta and Barcelona influencing future architectural practices?
The dialogue between these cities can influence future architectural practices by promoting sustainable design that benefits the users, the environment, and the social environment. The discussion highlighted the similarities rather than the differences in urban design, which encourages the development of sustainable architecture in both developed and developing countries.
What are some key differences you perceive in the architectural needs and solutions between the two cities?
There are significant differences in the architectural needs and solutions between the two cities. Jakarta, being a younger city compared to Barcelona, requires landmarks and green, sustainable buildings. In contrast, Barcelona’s architecture is heavily influenced by its heritage and cultural background. However, both cities need post-pandemic sustainable architecture, which prioritises people’s psychological and physical needs. Open spaces and convenient amenities are essential for people’s well-being; hence, buildings should be a means of interaction between people and connect them with nature.
Crafting a Sustainable Urban Future
Mohammad Archica Danisworo (Chico) of PDW Architects recently took centre stage at the prestigious “Crossing Horizons: Cities in Dialogue” event held at the Roca Barcelona Gallery. With a focus on environmental and social sustainability, the esteemed architect shared his innovative approach to transforming Jakarta’s urban landscape amidst its unique challenges. In this exclusive interview, he shares insights on his design philosophy and the impact of his work on creating more sustainable urban environments.
What were the main themes you highlighted during your presentation at the event?
I emphasised the importance of designing with a focus on passive strategies and prioritising both environmental and social sustainability. This approach is crucial for addressing the myriad of environmental challenges we face, such as high temperatures, humidity, heavy traffic, and limited public open spaces. By integrating innovative design solutions like second skin facades and encouraging the use of public transportation, we can create a more sustainable and liveable urban environment.
How do you approach large-scale transformative projects in Jakarta, considering its unique urban challenges?
When handling large-scale projects in Jakarta, it’s essential to provide solutions that respond to the city’s unique conditions. One effective method is incorporating second skin facades. By placing shading devices outside the building perimeter, we can block direct sunlight, reducing heat gain and allowing for natural or mechanical ventilation. This design strategy helps maintain a stable indoor temperature, enhancing comfort and reducing reliance on air-conditioning systems. In addition, optimising area layouts for pedestrian accessibility, creating microclimates through efficient landscaping, and integrating green and public spaces are key elements of our approach.
Can you share some significant elements that embody your architectural philosophy?
We put comfort and sustainability at the fore of our architectural philosophy. One example, we combined second skin facades with carefully designed green spaces and pedestrian-friendly layouts. By integrating these elements, we are able to enhance environmental sustainability whilst fostering social well-being and community engagement. Our comprehensive design philosophy indeed aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable urban development.
Transforming Urban Spaces
Piter Gan, founder of Piter Gan Architect, has significantly influenced urban landscapes through innovative design. Established in 1996, the eponymous firm has handled diverse projects, including mixed-use developments, as well as luxury hotels, shopping malls, F&B establishments, housing estates, high rise and landed residences. Recently, he spoke at the “Crossing Horizons: Cities in Dialogue” event at the Roca Barcelona Gallery, which focused on integrating sustainability into urban design and offered a platform for architects to exchange insights.
What was the focus of your presentation at the “Crossing Horizons: Cities in Dialogue” event?
I discussed integrating sustainability into urban design, emphasising that whilst it is a global concern, its application differs based on local regulations and economic conditions. For instance, sustainability approaches in Jakarta and Barcelona can vary significantly due to these aspects.
How does your firm incorporate sustainability into its projects?
We tailor our sustainability approach to fit the local context, blending functionality with environmental considerations. By integrating local elements and optimising space usage, we ensure that each project not only meets functional needs but also positively impacts its surroundings.
How has “Crossing Horizons” influenced your perspective on urban design?
The event reinforced the idea that sustainability is not a one-size- fits-all solution. Discussions with international peers highlighted the diverse approaches cities take towards sustainability, broadening my perspective on adapting practices to fit local conditions.
Can you give an example of a project that represents the perspective you’ve just mentioned?
Cibinong City Mall is one example. It stands out for its commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and thoughtful material selection. Developed in two phases, the mall includes high-end retail spaces, a hotel, and a convention hall, making it a key economic hub whilst aligning with urban sustainability goals.
What are the key highlights of this project?
Malls, particularly in big cities across Indonesia, have long become a hub for gathering places, shopping destinations and recreational facilities. So, the key highlights of this project include its multifunctional design that caters to hospitality, business, and leisure needs. Our sustainability approach also encompasses community empowerment, which plays its role in job creations and local economic development, as well as the use of durable and aesthetically pleasing materials that balance functionality with beauty.