Commissioned by a Dutch missionary, this project provides a forum for the Dayak people, especially women, to hone their weaving skills and exhibit and sell their work. It adopts the traditional long house form, with a raised open gathering space at its base and, leading to the first floor, a wide central stair that doubles as a space for people to enjoy the surrounding forest. Local wood is used extensively, and the house was built by local people. By encouraging an appreciation of the regional weaving tradition among both locals and tourists, the project has made a contribution to the community’s social, cultural and economic life.

Source:

The Aga Khan Trust for Culture, 2011.