Cultural identity and millennials’ housing transition in Indonesia

Abstract

This study investigates the generational shift among millennials from traditional architecture toward modern, globalized designs that often lack cultural identity. It examines both internal factors—such as regional natural resources, geographical context, and intangible cultural values—and external influences including technological advancements and proximity to urban centers, which collectively shape millennials’ housing preferences. The research was conducted in Bajeng Village, Gowa District, with a total of 650 respondents. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, employing a sequential design that began with qualitative data collection through interviews, followed by quantitative data gathering via structured surveys. Findings reveal that millennial residents tend to favor contemporary and durable housing that emphasizes practicality and adaptability over cultural continuity. This preference illustrates a declining appreciation for traditional architectural values, highlighting the need to raise awareness of their cultural significance in fostering a sense of belonging and identity. The study advocates for intergenerational knowledge transfer as a strategy to help younger generations appreciate and integrate cultural heritage into modern housing choices. Its main contribution lies in offering both a practical and theoretical framework for understanding how social, cultural, and functional factors converge to influence architectural trends in transitional societies.