Space, Symbols, and Identity: An Space, Symbols, and Identity: An Architectural Study of Gurusina Traditional Village After the 2018 Fire Architectural Study of Gurusina Traditional Village After The 2018 Fire

Gurusina Traditional Village in Ngada Regency represents a settlement where space, architecture, symbols, and customary practices are closely interwoven with community identity. The fire of August 2018 destroyed several traditional houses and erased cultural symbols passed down across generations, raising questions about the continuity of architectural identity in the reconstruction process. This study analyzes the relationship between space, symbols, and identity in Gurusina, while exploring changes and continuities after the fire. Using a qualitative, descriptive-analytical approach, data were gathered through field observation, interviews with traditional leaders and residents, architectural documentGurusina Traditional Village in Ngada Regency represents a settlement where space, architecture, symbols, and customary practices are closely interwoven with community identity. The fire of August 2018 destroyed several traditional houses and erased cultural symbols passed down across generations, raising questions about the continuity of architectural identity in the reconstruction process. This study analyzes the relationship between space, symbols, and identity in Gurusina, while exploring changes and continuities after the fire. Using a qualitative, descriptive-analytical approach, data were gathered through field observation, interviews with traditional leaders and residents, architectural documentation, and literature review. Analysis focused on spatial characteristics, symbolic meanings, cultural practices, and transformations during rebuilding. Findings reveal that Gurusina’s identity lies not only in the physical form of traditional houses but also in the interplay of spatial configuration, symbols, rituals, collective memory, and community attachment to place. Thus, the sustainability of Gurusina’s identity is best understood as a dynamic process of continuity and transformation carried forward by the community as custodians of culture.ation, and literature review. Analysis focused on spatial characteristics, symbolic meanings, cultural practices, and transformations during rebuilding. Findings reveal that Gurusina’s identity lies not only in the physical form of traditional houses but also in the interplay of spatial configuration, symbols, rituals, collective memory, and community attachment to place. Thus, the sustainability of Gurusina’s identity is best understood as a dynamic process of continuity and transformation carried forward by the community as custodians of culture.