INKULTURASI BUDAYA LOKAL DALAM DESAIN ARSITEKTUR GEREJA SANTO FRANSISKUS ASISI SINGKAWANG

Abstract

Abstract

This study examines the inculturation of local culture in the architectural design of the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi in Singkawang, West Kalimantan, Indonesia. The church represents a distinctive form of religious architecture that integrates Catholic liturgical requirements with the cultural heritage of Hakka Chinese and Dayak communities. This study aims to identify, analyze, and interpret cultural elements reflected in structural forms, ornamental motifs, color symbolism, and spatial arrangements. A qualitative descriptive method was employed through field observation, architectural documentation, and in-depth interviews with parish administrators, architects, and community elders. The findings indicate that the church incorporates Chinese temple-inspired roof curvature, Dayak-inspired carved motifs on door frames, and colors associated with local ceremonial traditions. These elements do not contradict Catholic theological principles but enrich the sacred spatial experience by making it culturally meaningful and spiritually relevant to the local congregation. The study demonstrates that architectural inculturation is a dynamic process of cross-cultural dialogue in sacred space. Furthermore, the integration of diverse cultural elements illustrates how multicultural contexts can produce distinctive and theologically coherent sacred spaces that foster cultural appreciation, strengthen community identity, and promote harmony within pluralistic urban environments.