Colonial Building Design Strategies for Tropical Climates (Case Study at SMPN 1 Lhokseumawe)

Colonial buildings are the historical heritage of the Dutch colonial period and become a special attraction for a region. Colonial buildings still survive today because they have an adaptation strategy to the local climate, especially the tropical climate. The secondary-level school building of SMPN 1 Lhokseumawe in the north Aceh region as the object of this research, shows that colonial buildings can survive and function as educational facilities. It is important to analyse the design strategies of colonial buildings in the face of tropical climate challenges. This research is expected to add insight and inspiration to today's architectural practices in designing buildings that are adaptive to tropical climates and preserving colonial architectural heritage as part of Indonesia's cultural heritage. Qualitative research methods were chosen to carry out the research process through observation, interviews, and documentation. As a result of this research, it was found that the building of SMPN 1 Lhokseumawe implemented several strategies in the form of symmetrical and elongated building layouts, maximizing the direction of openings and shade from the shield roof, additional clerestory on the roof, the use of materials to adapt to the tropical climate. Despite many adjustments to the climate, this colonial building still retains its design and characteristics of colonial buildings.