The Building Performance of Limas House; Dealing with Current Context

Abstract

The limas is one of the traditional building typologies in Palembang, the capital of Southern Sumatera Province, Indonesia. Currently, Limas is facing challenges due to change on social culture as well as the climate. This study aims to find out the performance of limas related to its capability in accommodating the changes of user activity and the climate. In order to achieve this aim, the study measured the thermal and visual performance of three Limas houses that are still used as place for living along as working area. Data were collected by field measurement and interview. The thermal and visual performance is observed by the building form, materials and openings. Analysis is done by using thermal and visual comfort simulation. The result is compared to the physical changes of limas buildings. The comparison shows layouts changes to fulfil the space needs for current activity. In general, the building performance of those three limas accommodates the user’s activity in current context but need some improvements for thermal and visual comfort. Paper suggests some actions of limas conservation that is responsive to climate and in accordance with user behavior.