Journal of A Sustainable Global South [E-ISSN 2622-058X | P-ISSN 2579-6062 | DOI 10.24843] is a refereed journal which reflecting current problems of global development - climate change, geographic restructuring, migration, adaptive urbanism, social justice and other dominant issues, the journal is focused on issues pertaining to sustainable development of the third world countries in the context of evolving social, cultural, economic and spatial conditions. It therefore embraces studies that deepen our understanding of cultural and socially empathetic forms of development. So its focus is on sustainable living environments, urban and rural growth, economy, spatial restructuring, and infrastructure, the use of resources, as well as disaster mitigation and management. The Journal is published twice a year, in February and August.
Institute for Research and Community Services Udayana University
Copyright (c) 2026 AdminJSGS (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Reading the Transformation of The Alun-Alun in Bogor City as a Physical and Social Space
The dichotomy of study in STEM (science technology engineering and mathematics) and the humanities has been a popular issue in academic research. This paper tries to see whether that the dichotomy is significant or not. Utilizing a public open space as one of the common subjects of study in landscape architecture. The public open space is analyzed within a positivistic domain and in the cultural studies paradigm. The purpose is to exercise an approach of analyzing a same set of data and present a continuous discussion on the subject of interest, which is alun-alun (town square). Data from two town squares in Bogor City, which are Alun-alun Empang and Alun-alun Kota Bogor, were collected according to common practice in landscape architecture field of study. The discussion uses descriptive analysis and critical social analysis techniques. The result shows that descriptive analysis works well for biophysical aspect while the critical social analysis makes the social aspect give a deeper understanding on intangible area.
Copyright (c) 2026 Megisterina, Devvy Alvionita Fitriana, Naniek Kohdrata (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comfortable Architecture Redesigning How We Think About Comfort
Comfort has been a cornerstone of architectural design, shaping how spaces influence human well-being physically, emotionally, and socially. This paper examines comfort as a dynamic and multidimensional concept, exploring its variations across different climates and the challenges associated with its excessive pursuit, such as isolation, stagnation, and environmental strain. The transformative role of discomfort is highlighted as a means to foster resilience, creativity, and connection. Furthermore, the paper discusses architectural strategies that balance comfort with sustainability, using case studies from tropical, temperate, and arid regions to provide actionable insights for reimagining comfort in the built environment.
Copyright (c) 2026 Thure Röckemann (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Sheltered by Stars: The Courtyard Essence in Indian Homes
This paper addresses the decline of traditional courtyard architecture in modern urban contexts, which has led to a disconnect between architectural design, environmental sustainability, and social cohesion. The study employs a comparative analysis of traditional and modern courtyard homes, focusing on their design principles, climatic adaptations, cultural significance, and technological advancements. Case studies from regions like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu are examined to understand how traditional designs addressed climatic challenges and social needs. Traditional courtyards excelled in passive climate control, natural ventilation, and fostering community interaction. Modern interpretations integrate advanced materials and technologies, such as vertical gardens and solar systems, adapting these spaces for urban living while retaining core benefits. However, modern designs often prioritize privacy over communal aspects, reflecting evolving lifestyles. Courtyard architecture offers timeless solutions for sustainable living by balancing cultural values, environmental adaptation, and human well-being. Integrating traditional principles with modern innovations can bridge the gap between heritage and contemporary needs. The findings emphasize the potential of reimagined courtyard designs to address urban challenges like energy efficiency, social isolation, and environmental sustainability. This approach offers a framework for architects to create resilient, human-centric urban spaces that honor cultural heritage while addressing modern demands
Copyright (c) 2026 Tejashree Kusuma (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Bridging Traditions: How Eastern and Western Architectural Practices Collaborate for Sustainable Housing
This article explores how Eastern and Western architectural practices can collaborate to create sustainable housing solutions, addressing the challenges posed by globalisation while promoting a balance between cultural values and ecological needs. Through the analysis of case studies from Estonia, Bali and West Africa, the paper examines how local knowledge can be integrated with modern technologies. The focus is on the use of local materials, climate responsive design, and energy efficiency throughout the whole process. The findings suggest that combining traditional architectural practices with global knowledge offers a pathway to sustainable housing that respects cultural identity and addresses ecological challenges. The study highlights how cross-cultural collaboration can foster innovative, sustainable architecture that meets both global and local needs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Raimond Vool (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A Policy Strategy for Strengthening Area-Based Waste Management Institutions to Improve the Effectiveness of Waste Services in Denpasar City
Waste management is a pressing issue in urban areas, including Denpasar City, which produces over 1,000 tons of waste daily. Limited infrastructure, low public participation, and weak institutional coordination have created inefficiencies in the current system. This policy paper proposes strategies to strengthen waste management institutions at the sub-district level to improve service effectiveness. Through secondary data analysis, regulatory review, and assessment of policy alternatives, the study finds that the absence of Waste Management Technical Implementation Units (UPTD) in sub-districts significantly hinders service delivery and community involvement. Of four policy options considered, establishing UPTDs simultaneously in all sub-districts is identified as the most effective and sustainable. This approach is expected to improve operational responsiveness, encourage local innovation, and support national waste management goals. Strengthening territorial-level institutions is therefore essential to developing a decentralized and sustainable waste management system in Denpasar City.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ni Wayan Wirati (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Policy Strategy to Improve The Food Consumption Patterns of The Denpasar City Community that are Diverse, Nutritious, Balanced and Safe
Food is anything that comes from biological sources, whether processed or not, intended as food and drink for human consumption. The size of a region's food supply is one measure that can reflect the adequacy of food supply in the area concerned, which can influence community consumption patterns as measured by the Expected Food Pattern (PPH) score. In 2024, the PPH score in Denpasar City reached 90.92, indicating that it was in the golden triangle (88-100) but had not yet reached the optimal number (100). The high consumption of rice as the main source of carbohydrates and the lack of diversity in community consumption, resulted in a high dependence on supplies from outside the region or imports. This paper aims to develop policies that can be implemented by the government and relevant stakeholders to increase the use of local non-rice foods for public consumption, especially the people of Denpasar City.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ni Wayan Miki (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Influence of Access and Space Appearance on Comfort for Users in Alun-Alun Gianyar
Green open spaces (RTH) play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and improving the quality of life for urban residents. One of the primary typologies of RTH is the city park, functionally represented by Gianyar City Square as a center for sports, recreation, social interaction, and art performances. Following the revitalization program, significant transformations in accessibility and visual aesthetics have occurred, creating an urgent need to assess their impact on visitor comfort. This study aims to analyze the influence of accessibility and spatial appearance variables on user comfort levels in Gianyar City Square. The methodology used was a quantitative approach, involving 100 respondents selected through a specific sampling technique. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire and then processed using parametric statistical analysis, including validity tests, reliability tests, and classical assumption tests (normality and heteroscedasticity). Hypotheses were tested through linear regression analysis, supported by F-tests and T-tests. The results indicate that access and spatial appearance variables simultaneously and partially have a positive and significant effect on user comfort. Empirical findings identified that the spatial appearance variable was the most dominant determinant with an influence coefficient of 0.7. This indicates that visual aesthetics and spatial arrangement post-revitalization are key factors in enhancing the spatial experience and psychological comfort of visitors.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kadek Edi Saputra, I Made Agus Dharmadiatmika, Devvy Alvionita Fitriana, Megisterina (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Back of Cover Journal of Sustainable Global South Vol 9 No 2
Copyright (c) 2025 AdminJSGS (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Table of Content Journal of Sustainable Global South Vol 9 No 2
Publication Detail Journal of Sustainable Global South Vol 9 No 2
Cover Journal of Sustainable Global South Vol 9 No 2
Architecture in Bali between two worlds: integrating tradition and modernity in the age of globalization
This paper explores how Balinese architecture adapts to globalization pressures by blending traditional architectural elements with modern sustainable practices. Using Tzonis and Lefaivre’s theory of critical regionalism as a framework, the study examines eco-resorts in Bali as case studies of sustainable tropical architecture that respect cultural heritage while addressing the demands of an international tourism industry. Through these examples, the analysis evaluates how the combination of traditional Balinese design principles with contemporary innovations has achieved sustainable development within the eco-tourism context.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lukas Schmitt (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Enduring Elegance of Thai Architecture: a Timeless Tradition in a Modern Context a Study of the Jim Thompson House as a Vernacular Example
Thailand’s traditional architecture embodies a harmonious interplay between cultural identity, environmental adaptability, and spiritual beliefs. Its preservation was largely facilitated by the country’s unique status as Southeast Asia’s only nation to avoid colonization. This study examines the Jim Thompson House as a case study to explore vernacular Thai design, historical development, and challenges posed by modernization. With its steep roofs, stilted designs, and intricate craftsmanship, the house is celebrated as a masterpiece of traditional Thai architecture. However, questions arise regarding its authenticity as a representation of everyday Thai housing. This research also delves into the sociocultural and economic transformations that have contributed to the decline of traditional housing forms in modern Thailand. Findings reveal how the principles of vernacular Thai design can inform sustainable and culturally resonant architectural practices for contemporary challenges such as urbanization and climate change. Ultimately, this research argues that rather than viewing tradition and modernity as opposing forces, they can coexist, offering pathways to a more culturally enriched and sustainable architectural future. The Jim Thompson House serves not only as a historical artifact but as a source of enduring lessons for innovative design solutions today.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lara Michaela Saskia Ricaldi Oroza (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Impact of Tourism Architecture on Culture and Communities in Tropical Region – on the example of Bali.
This paper examines the impact of tourism architecture on local communities and cultural identity in Bali. The rapid growth of tourism has driven significant changes in traditional residential structures, cultural practices, and social dynamics, leading to concerns about the erosion of Bali’s unique heritage. The increasing demand for modern tourist facilities has disrupted the traditional balance between architecture, culture, and community life. Sacred spaces and traditional layouts are being replaced by structures designed to meet the needs of tourism, resulting in the fragmentation of communities and the loss of cultural authenticity. Traditional rituals and practices have been commodified, further weakening the social and spiritual fabric of the island. The findings highlight the critical challenges posed by unregulated tourism development, which threatens both cultural identity and environmental sustainability. Bali’s situation illustrates the broader challenges faced by regions seeking to balance tourism growth with the preservation of cultural and ecological heritage. This work emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices that respect local traditions while addressing the pressures of global tourism. It provides valuable insights for understanding the transformative effects of tourism architecture on culture and community life.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rabea Praschan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
How Tropical Design as Climate Responsive Design Could Shape Sustainable Living in Germany
The catastrophic flood disaster of July 2021 in Germany, often named the “century flood,” has underscored the growing urgency of climate change and its impact on urban and rural environments. This event, which claimed over 180 lives and caused widespread damage, is emblematic of a broader trend of increasing extreme weather phenomena such as floods, heatwaves and droughts exacerbated by climate change. As a response there is an emerging need for innovative approaches in architecture, particularly in integrating climate-responsive designs that enhance sustainability and resilience. This paper explores the potential for incorporating tropical architectural principles into German design practices, aiming to address the challenges posed by climate change. By comparing the climate-adaptive strategies of tropical architecture with traditional German building styles this research investigates the feasibility of blending these approaches to create energy efficient, sustainable and culturally sensitive architectural solutions. Through a combination of theoretical analysis and case studies the paper evaluates the opportunities and limitations of such integration, particularly concerning materials, energy efficiency and cultural differences. The study ultimately proposes that a fusion of tropical and German architectural elements could contribute significantly to sustainable living in the face of climate change, offering new pathways for adaptive and environmentally conscious design in Germany.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hanna Gerwinat (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Sustainability & Identity: Bali’s Struggle in the Age of Mass Tourism
Bali, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, has emerged as a prominent destination for global tourism, leading to substantial economic advantages. Nonetheless, the swift expansion of mass tourism has introduced numerous challenges, especially concerning architectural integrity. Traditional Balinese architecture, which is profoundly anchored in the principles of Tri Hita Karana highlighting the necessity for balance among humanity, nature, and the divine now encounters mounting pressures from the arrival of Western-style commercial constructions. These contemporary constructions frequently emphasize financial gain and visual appeal at the expense of sustainability and cultural authenticity, resulting in ecological harm, the forced relocation of local populations, and the deterioration of Bali's distinctive cultural heritage. This study investigates the effects of mass tourism on Balinese architecture, examining the extent to which traditional principles are supplanted by globalized design practices. It employs the framework of Critical Regionalism to suggest solutions that incorporate local materials, cultural knowledge, and environmental factors into contemporary tourism infrastructure. By integrating Tri Hita Karana, this paper promotes a comprehensive approach to tourism development that reconciles the island’s economic advancement with the conservation of its spiritual and ecological values. The research contends that the advancement of sustainable tourism in Bali should transcend immediate financial benefits and concentrate on enduring strategies that honor the island’s cultural heritage and ecological boundaries. It utilizes comparative cases from Southeast Asia to illustrate how Bali can adopt a contemporary yet culturally rooted perspective on architecture, thereby guaranteeing that the island continues to be a sustainable and culturally vibrant locale for forthcoming generations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Christoph Spitz (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Architecture as an Instrument of Colonial Power
Colonial architecture and urban planning have historically served as potent tools for asserting dominance and enforcing social hierarchies within colonized regions. This paper examines the multifaceted role of architecture in colonial power structures, focusing on its applications in urban planning and design during the French colonial era, with insights applicable to broader colonial contexts. Drawing on theoretical frameworks from postcolonial studies, this study explores how urban spaces were strategically designed to reinforce segregation, alienate indigenous populations, and symbolize colonial authority. The research method involves a critical analysis of case studies from Algiers and Hanoi, as well as a review of key texts including Gwendolyn Wright’s The Politics of Design in French Colonial Urbanism and Davide Ponzini’s Transnational Architecture and Urbanism. These sources illuminate how colonial administrators adapted European planning models and integrated transnational architectural influences to craft spaces of both dominance and cultural negotiation. Findings reveal that while colonial architecture functioned as a mechanism of control, indigenous communities subverted its intent through cultural adaptations and repurposing of spaces. Additionally, the hybridization of colonial and local architectural styles highlights the complexities of power, negotiation, and resilience in colonized urban landscapes. This study underscores the enduring impact of colonial urban planning on contemporary cities, where spatial inequalities and inherited architectural forms persist. It advocates for postcolonial urban planning approaches that prioritize inclusivity and cultural representation, transforming colonial legacies into equitable urban environments. These insights hold significant implications for architects, urban planners, and policymakers seeking to reconcile historical imbalances and foster socially cohesive communities.
Copyright (c) 2025 Adrian Schellhorn (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0