Understanding Architectural Tectonics to Prevent Extinction: an Empirical Study of Banua Layuk Mamasa, Indonesia

Banua layuk architecture has distinctive characteristics that describe complex architectural tectonics in both technical and artistic aspects. Tectonics is an art in construction that presents aesthetics. Discussion of architectural tectonics in banua layuk in Mamasa has not yet been done. This study aims to reveal the architectural tectonics of banua layuk and understand the value of sustainability in banua layuk’s design as documentation of carpentry creativity, a wealth of Indonesian architecture that must be preserved. This study is qualitative research with a naturalistic paradigm. Data analysis was carried out by analyzing the architectural tectonics of banua layuk Mamasa, understanding the coreform and artform, and understanding the value of sustainability in banua layuk. The results of the study indicate that the tectonics of the banua layuk coreform are divided into three independent parts: the lower structure is a bar frame with a rocking construction, the middle structure is a bearing wall with a bearing wall construction, and the upper structure is a bar frame with a tie construction. While the banua layuk art form is integrated with its structural components, either in the form of artistically formed structural elements, carvings with symbolic meanings, or traditional joints that are left exposed to add to the aesthetic value of the building, these ornaments are found in the structural components of badong, paraba’ba, panulak, lentong and palelen as well as the roof frame. In addition, banua layuk Mamasa also has sustainable values, including environmentally friendly materials, structures, and constructions that are by geographical conditions, and the use of ornaments as a cultural identity that can be used in its original form or developed with a new design that is more by changing times. Keywords: banua layuk Mamasa; coreform; artform; architectural tectonics; sustainability.