The Role of Customary Norms in Shaping the Spatial Organization of Bale Tani and Bale Bonter in Sade Village

Abstract

This study examines how Sasak customary norms shape spatial organization and are materialized into the architectural features of Bale Tani and Bale Bonter in Sade Village, Lombok, Indonesia. Although previous studies have discussed Sasak traditional houses from architectural, cultural, and environmental perspectives, limited attention has been given to explaining how customary norms are translated into spatial organization and architectural form. An ethnographic qualitative approach was employed through field observations, in-depth interviews, architectural documentation, and literature review. The findings identify four dominant categories of customary norms. (1) The protection of women, closely associated with the Merariq (traditional elopement marriage) practice, establishes a hierarchy of privacy through the placement of daughters' bedrooms in the most protected zones and the provision of layered access. (2) The concept of spatial sanctity requires functions considered less sacred, such as bathing and washing, to be located outside the main building while preserving the Dalem Bale as a ritual space. (3) Cosmological orientation toward Mount Rinjani and the awiq-awiq (customary regulations) guides the orientation of terraces, façades, and front–rear spatial arrangements. (4) Social status and representational functions in Bale Bonter reinforce the role of the front space through floor elevation, low thresholds as etiquette, and facade articulation. These findings are synthesized into a "norms → spatial rules → architectural features" matrix, illustrating how cultural values are transformed into spatial organization and architectural elements. The proposed framework provides a practical reference for conserving Sasak vernacular architecture while supporting adaptive design and sustainable management in customary tourism villages.