RB+HQ—stands for Rumah Buah + Headquarters—is a striking mixed-use building situated in Karawaci, Tangerang, West Java. This unique structure measures 2720 sqm in an area of 2240 sqm, seamlessly integrating modern design with the feng shui principle. Meticulously adhering to a 12-degree-angled feng shui guideline in various design elements e.g. door placement, building orientation, room configuration, and the strategic placement of the courtyards; RB+HQ becomes an architecture that respects traditional practices while meeting contemporary urban needs.
RB+HQ presents a captivating four-story volume that emphasizes a strong connection to the street and the surrounding community while efficiently supporting a variety of functions. At the base of this building is the ground floor, dedicated to Rumah Buah Market, a vibrant supermarket that puts fresh fruits while curating an exquisite selection of local delicacies. The expansive 12-degree-angled glass facade beckons passersby, inviting them into a space filled with vibrant produce and artisanal goods. The transparent design is not only driven by feng shui principles but also creates an atmosphere of openness and accessibility, community engagement, establishing the supermarket as a cherished local destination.
Above the bustling ground level, the first floor houses the Rumah Buah Office, designed to cultivate collaboration and creativity among its occupants. The open-plan layout promotes interaction, creating a welcoming environment for employees and visitors alike, including vendors from the supermarket below. This floor features a combination of meeting rooms and private meeting rooms tailored for upper management, while a dedicated and more private area ensures focused productivity. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for improvements in large office environments is rising, focusing not just on efficiency but on the well-being of individuals within those spaces. Moving away from traditional office layouts dominated by dense partitions, this modern workspace emphasizes community, comfort, and flexibility. Nestled between two inner courtyards, the design minimizes solid walls, allowing natural light and fresh air to flow freely throughout the environment. This approach not only enhances productivity but also fosters a deeper connection to nature, as the inner courtyards introduce vital green spaces that promote calmness and well-being. Lighting plays a crucial role in shaping the overall atmosphere of the workspace. Carefully curated lighting options infuse warmth throughout the building, with pendant fixtures featuring intricate grid-like patterns casting a gentle glow that transforms the office into a vibrant space. This thoughtful design choice enhances the visual appeal of the space while fostering an environment conducive to creativity and organization. Adaptability is another key feature of this mixed-use development. The architectural design incorporates raised floor finishes that can be adjusted based on occupancy needs, allowing the space to evolve and respond to changing requirements over time. This dynamic arrangement fosters a highly adaptable environment that can grow and transform alongside its users.
The juxtaposed masses of the building create a visual dialogue, creating unique nooks and corners that invite exploration and connection. Its façade exemplifies a commitment to sustainability, incorporating both passive and active climate-responsive strategies. Deep overhangs provide essential shade, while ample natural ventilation reduces reliance on artificial lighting, enhancing occupant comfort and promoting an overall sense of harmony with the environment. The building's façade on the first layer, characterized by gently curved corners and small, elongated windows, softens its overall form and draws the eye outward from the inside, framing picturesque views of lush greenery. On the second floor, an intricate aluminum lattice wraps the elevated balcony structure in 12-degree-angled, balancing the influx of natural light and heat with the necessity for privacy—an essential consideration given the proximity of neighboring high-rise apartments. This choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the building but also serves a practical purpose, providing durability in the region's sweltering climate to ensure comfort for all Rumah Buah Team.
Perched atop this dynamic structure design, the penthouse offers a serene sanctuary featuring three ensuite bedrooms, a powder room, and an expansive living-dining-kitchen area, designed for relaxation and entertaining. This elegant space boasts sweeping views that inspire a sense of tranquility amidst the urban hustle. Initiated through a series of discussion and brainstorming between Rumah Buah Team and GeTs Architects in September 2022, this mixed-use building stands as a beacon of modern design and community spirit. By blending commercial, office, and residential elements into a cohesive whole, it exemplifies a new standard for urban living—one where every space resonates with purpose and beauty, inviting all who enter to partake in a shared experience of vitality and inspiration. The building’s thoughtful design and attention to feng shui principles highlight the potential of architecture to nurture well-being and foster productivity, setting a precedent for future developments in urban environments.