Located in Palu City, Central Sulawesi, The Tambi Dialogue is a residential project that reinterprets traditional vernacular architecture through a contemporary lens. Set on a 374 m² plot with its longest axis oriented West to East, the site is situated in a tropical region that receives consistent sunlight and reaches temperatures as high as 39°C. These environmental conditions shaped the building’s orientation, material choices, and passive design strategies.
The architectural language draws inspiration from the Tambi house, a traditional structure of Sulawesi recognized for its steep triangular roofs. Two such forms define the main volumes of the project, offering not only a distinct identity but also functional benefits. Their geometry allows for vaulted ceilings and attic space, which is cleverly utilized to hide mechanical utilities like air-conditioning units and water tanks, maintaining a clean and uninterrupted roofline.
Connecting these traditional forms with a central volume clad in semi-translucent polycarbonate, forming a lightweight and modern contrast to the heavier, pitched structures. This design move brings visual balance between traditional and contemporary elements, both outside and within the interior. The central space expresses a minimalist and industrial atmosphere using exposed steel, grating, and metal, while the pitched volumes are enriched with natural stone and warm wood finishes, creating a diverse and layered spatial experience.
The wooden shingle façade, positioned along the West and East elevations, plays a critical role in environmental response. The West-facing façade, in particular, is prone to glare and high heat during the afternoon, so the shingles are perforated to function as shading fins, reducing direct solar exposure while still allowing filtered light into the interior. This approach helps maintain thermal comfort and prevents overheating in key interior zones.
The split-level floor plan improves natural ventilation and introduces a sunken space for rainwater collection, responding to both climate and sustainability concerns. Setbacks on all sides of the property allow for perimeter greenery, enabling better water infiltration and promoting zero surface runoff.
The Tambi Dialogue is a conversation between architecture and culture, between form and function. It is a built reflection of Sulawesi’s traditions, adapted for the future of sustainable urban living.