Echoes of Tradition: Joglo Reimagined

At Jia Curated Kiosks 2024, Samma Studio joined hands with Umah Living to bring forward a booth that celebrated both heritage and innovation. The concept, “Echoes of Tradition: Joglo Reimagined,” drew inspiration from the iconic Joglo — a traditional Javanese house that embodies a deep sense of home, or umah.

In reimagining Joglo as a contemporary house exhibition, we wove a narrative of cultural heritage and design innovation.

Each element – from the modular structure to the reflective ceiling and sheer curtains – told a story of harmony between tradition and modernity.

We believe in crafting spaces that not only inspire, but also resonate deeply with the essence of cultural identity, bridging past and future with every design endeavor. 

Just as “Joglo” translates to “house,” the name “Umah” carries the same meaning — a poetic resonance that became the foundation of our collaboration.

Designed for a four-day open-air exhibition, our Joglo-inspired booth features a knockdown structure crafted entirely from plywood. The design featured intricate joinery details, allowing each component to interlock without the need for excessive hardware. The result was a structure that could be assembled effortlessly, dismantled with ease, and repurposed beyond the exhibition’s four days — an approach that reflects both sustainability and thoughtful design.

The roof, akin to Joglo’s iconic limasan (or hip roof) silhouette, bore a twist of modernity. Asymmetrically shifted peaks added a dynamic charm, a nod to contemporary architectural sensibilities while honoring Joglo’s historical significance. 

Inside, the ceiling shimmered with reflective silver mirrors. Symbolizing the idea that a house mirrors its inhabitants, these mirrors not only amplified natural light but also invited contemplation. They spoke of depth and introspection, inviting visitors to reflect on the intersection of culture and personal identity within the curated space. 

Boundaries were softly defined by sheer curtains draped around the booth’s perimeter. These delicate fabrics offered a balance of transparency and privacy, a subtle invitation to explore. They fluttered gently, revealing glimpses of the exhibition within while creating a sense of sanctuary amidst the bustling ambiance. 

Through this collaboration, we sought to echo the spirit of tradition — not by merely recreating it, but by reimagining how it can live and evolve in the present.


Booth Design by Samma Studio
Design Team: Daf Ashari, Fahruddin Rozi, Dyangga Yureztyo
In collaboration with Umah Living for Jia Curated Kiosks
Lighting & Automated Curtain System by LTECH Lighting Control & Automated System
Contractor: WIN Interior