The Architectural Tectonics of Traditional Buildings in Mandailing, North Sumatera, Indonesia

Abstract

Mandailing Natal, located in North Sumatra, possesses a number of traditional architectural treasures in the form of 'bagas godang' and 'sopo godang'. Currently, both of these buildings are in quite poor condition. They exhibit a unique tectonic character typical of Mandailing. This paper aims to explore various structural and construction details of 'bagas godang' and 'sopo godang', the main buildings in one of the villages in Mandailing Julu, namely Hutagodang village. This is essential to be carried out in order to serve as a reference for the local government if these two buildings require reconstruction. Research findings indicate that both structures have highly flexible tectonics against lateral forces. The construction structure of 'bagas godang' and 'sopo godang' consists of three parts, namely the bottom part (base), the middle part (walls), and the upper part (roof). Each part has its own construction and forms a cohesive homogeneous structural unit. The building materials for both structures are predominantly wood, and some parts, especially the foundation, use stones. The entirety of the building materials is sourced directly from the surrounding environment and shaped through simple material processing. The connections between the structural elements are in the form of pegs, notches, joints, and ties, which provide high flexibility against lateral forces.