Pelestarian Arsitektur Tradisional Rumoh Aceh Di Tengah Ancaman Alih Fungsi: Studi Kasus Rumoh Aceh E. Sultan Mohamed, Lhokseumawe

Abstract

Rumoh Aceh is a form of Nusantara vernacular architecture that embodies the philosophical, religious, and social values of the Acehnese people in every element of its structure. Unfortunately, this traditional house is becoming increasingly rare due to modernization, functional conversion, and material deterioration as the buildings age. This study aims to document the physical and philosophical condition of Rumoh Aceh E. Sultan Mohamed in Kuta Blang, Lhokseumawe City before and after renovation, and to analyze the impact of these changes on the architectural authenticity and philosophical meaning of the building. The study applies a descriptive qualitative method with a case study approach. Data were collected through field observation, visual documentation of floor plans and photographs before and after renovation, and interviews with the owner and heirs of the house. The results show that the inheritance division process reduced the number of supporting pillars from 32 to 16, changed the number of doors from two to one, replaced the rope-binding joint system with wooden nails, and eliminated the rumoh inong space, which previously symbolized the dominant social role of women in Acehnese customary order. These changes have not only reduced the physical authenticity of the building but also diminished part of the philosophical and religious values embedded in its original spatial layout. This study recommends a preservation strategy based on digital documentation and adaptive reuse that still maintains the main philosophical elements of the building.