Traditional Balinese House: Spatial Layout Dictated by Direction and Function

North-facing bedrooms, the family temple in the east, kitchen placement. Residential design reflecting Cosmology.

A traditional Balinese house compound (kuren) is not merely a shelter from the elements; it is a 'microcosm' designed to replicate the Balinese Hindu cosmic order on earth. The layout of the compound strictly follows principles outlined in traditional architectural canons like the 'Asta Kosala Kosali.' It is oriented according to the cardinal directions, fundamentally based on the axis between 'Kaja,' the sacred direction towards Mount Agung, and 'Kelod,' the profane direction towards the sea. Along this sacred axis, structures like the family temple, sleeping pavilions, guest pavilions, and kitchen are placed in designated locations. Characterized by multiple separate pavilions (Bale), each with a specific function, enclosed within a surrounding wall, this architectural style reflects the Balinese emphasis on harmony between the divine, nature, and the family.

Kaja-Kelod: The Sacred Directional Axis

The concept of the 'Kaja-Kelod' axis is fundamental to Balinese house design. For the Balinese, 'Kaja,' the direction towards the mountains where the gods reside (especially Mount Agung), is the most sacred and pure direction. Conversely, 'Kelod,' the direction towards the sea, is associated with the impure, the demonic, and the realm of death. Based on the axis connecting Kaja and Kelod, and the axis of sunrise ('Kangin' - East) and sunset ('Kauh' - West), the placement of every building within the compound is determined. The most sacred spot is the Kaja-Kangin corner (northeast), where the family temple, dedicated to ancestral spirits, is located. Conversely, areas for waste disposal or animal pens are typically situated in the most profane corner, the Kelod-Kauh (southwest).

Sanggah/Merajan: The Sacred Family Temple

The most important structure within a Balinese house compound is the family temple, located in the auspicious Kaja-Kangin (northeast) corner. Called 'Sanggah' or 'Merajan' (the latter often used by higher castes), it is the sacred space dedicated to venerating the family's deified ancestors. The Sanggah contains multiple shrines, often including ones dedicated to the high Hindu gods and deities associated with Mount Agung and Mount Batur. The family offers daily Canang (offerings) here and conducts prayers in traditional attire during Purnama (full moon), Tilem (new moon), and important family ceremonies. The constant presence of this sacred space within the home signifies the Balinese people's continuous awareness of their connection to the divine and their ancestors in daily life.

A Compound of Functional Pavilions 'Bale'

A distinctive feature of traditional Balinese housing is that it typically consists not of one large building, but of several separate, open-sided pavilions ('Bale') arranged within a walled courtyard, each serving a different function. Towards the north (Kaja) is often the 'Bale Daja,' the sleeping pavilion for the head of the family or elders. Towards the east (Kangin) might be the 'Bale Dangin,' used for important ceremonies and rites of passage. The 'Bale Dauh' towards the west (Kauh) often serves as a reception area for guests or sleeping quarters for younger couples. The kitchen ('Paon') is usually located in the south (Kelod). These open pavilions facilitate communication among family members and allow natural ventilation. This open spatial configuration contributes to the unique comfort and ambiance of a Balinese home.

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