CULTURAL SPATIAL ZONING MODEL FOR NEO-VERNACULAR RESORT DESIGN IN NORTH SUMBAWA

Abstract

This study develops a Cultural Spatial Zoning model as a conceptual approach to neo-vernacular resort design in North Sumbawa, Indonesia. The research responds to the tendency of contemporary resort development that often prioritizes functional zoning while overlooking cultural spatial structures rooted in local architecture. A qualitative descriptive method was applied through a literature-based approach, focusing on Sumbawa vernacular architecture, spatial hierarchy, cultural values, and resort zoning principles. The analysis explores how traditional spatial arrangements reflect social relations, levels of privacy, and symbolic meanings within the community. The results show that Sumbawa vernacular architecture organizes space into four main layers: public, semi-public, private, and sacred spaces. These layers represent both functional and cultural dimensions. This spatial structure is then reinterpreted into a resort zoning model that integrates cultural values with contemporary tourism needs. The proposed model arranges the resort area into public, semi-public, private, and spiritual zones supported by service areas. This approach shows that cultural spatial structures can become a strong foundation for developing contextually responsive tourism architecture. This study contributes by connecting vernacular spatial knowledge with contemporary design practice and offers a more context-sensitive approach to resort development.