Exploring the Typology of Post-Independence Jengki Architecture Facades in Denpasar City

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FORMOSA NEWS

An in-depth study regarding the typology of forms and facade elements of Jengki architecture in three residential buildings in Denpasar was conducted by Nyoman Ratih Prajnyani Salain, I Nyoman Widya Paramadhyaksa, and Tri Anggraini Prajnawrdhi from the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Udayana University, in August 2026. This research is vital because Jengki architecture is a post-independence early modern heritage linking colonial traces with national expression, yet it is increasingly threatened by new development pressures and renovations altering its original form.

In its historical development, architectural discourse in Bali generally focuses more on traditional, religious, and colonial buildings, often marginalizing Jengki architecture. Amidst Denpasar's rapid urban development, Jengki-style buildings face threats of functional shifts and facade modifications—such as canopy additions or material replacements—risking the loss of historical authenticity in local architecture.

This research applied a qualitative approach with a limited case study method on three residential buildings on Jalan Pulau Natuna, Jalan Patih Jelantik, and Jalan Hasanuddin. Data collection was carried out through field observations, photo documentation, and detailed architectural descriptions, which were then comparatively analyzed based on literature regarding Jengki architectural characteristics.

Analysis of the three buildings confirmed several key findings:

• The three buildings show a dominance of steep gable roofs with a slope of 35 to over 50 degrees as a primary visual marker and a response to the tropical climate.

• The front wall planes are not completely symmetrical and tend to be slanted, avoiding rigid conventional perpendicular geometry.

• The use of geometric rosters and small air vents functions optimally as passive ventilation as well as aesthetic facade ornamental elements.

• Prominent terraces function as tropical transitional spaces supporting social life.

• The preservation conditions of the three buildings cover a diverse spectrum, ranging from relatively intact buildings, neglected units, to buildings undergoing modern renovations.

The results of this study provide broad implications for urban architectural heritage preservation, including the need to draft Jengki facade conservation guidelines, integrate this topic into architectural education curricula, and strengthen regional preservation policies. According to the researchers from Udayana University, this typological reading reinforces the position of Jengki architecture as an important component of early modern heritage in Bali that requires targeted documentation and protection.

Author Profiles

• Nyoman Ratih Prajnyani Salain – Researcher and academic at the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Udayana University, with expertise in architecture.
• I Nyoman Widya Paramadhyaksa – Researcher and academic at the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Udayana University, with expertise in architecture.
• Tri Anggraini Prajnawrdhi – Researcher and academic at the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Udayana University, with expertise in architecture.

Research Source

• Article Title: Typology of Forms and Facade Elements of Jengki Architecture in Denpasar
• Journal Name: International Journal of Integrated Science and Technology (IJIST), Vol. 4, No. 8
• Publication Year: August 2026
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.59890/ijist.v4i8.46