RIVER STUDIES
Advancing knowledge and stewardship of the world's rivers.

Exploring the Potential and Challenges of Floating Architecture for
Sustainable Urban Development in Indonesian Rivers
A Qualitative Study
Authors
Muhamad Ratodi
Keywords
Floating architecture
Indonesian rivers
Sustainable development
Author(s) info
Affiliation: Architecture
Dept. State Islamic
University of Sunan
Ampel
Email:
mratodi@uinsby.ac.id

Abstract
The purpose of this research is to look into the possibility of floating
architecture in Indonesian rivers. A mixed-methods research
strategy is used in the study, which combines qualitative and
quantitative data gathering and analysis methodologies. A survey
and semi-structured interviews with important stakeholders will be
used to obtain primary data. The quantitative and qualitative
findings will be combined to create a full grasp of this topic.
According to the survey results, the majority of respondents feel
that floating architecture may help solve the shortage of available
land in Indonesian cities and contribute to the country's long-term
growth. The key hurdles of implementing floating architecture
were recognized as regulatory barriers (35%), environmental effect
(25%), and public perception (20%). Perceived benefits, such as
enhanced adaptation and environmental sustainability, are
particularly pertinent to the issues confronting Indonesian riverine
communities. Overall, the study emphasizes the importance of
further promotion and education about the possibilities of floating
architecture, as well as additional research to evaluate its specific
application in the context of riverine ecosystems.

Copyright of all the published work are hold by the author(s) under the license of Creative Commons
By Atrribution (CC BY)

Introduction
Indonesia is a country that is heavily dependent on its water resources. The country is home to
more than 17,000 islands and has over 100,000 kilometers of rivers, making it one of the largest
archipelagos in the world. These rivers are an integral part of the country's social, economic,
and cultural fabric, providing water for irrigation, transportation, and fishing, among other uses.
However, rapid urbanization and industrialization have led to increased pollution and
environmental degradation, putting the health of these waterways at risk.
One potential solution to these challenges is the use of floating architecture. This approach has
the potential to transform the way people interact with Indonesian rivers, providing
opportunities for sustainable development and environmental protection. By building
structures that are designed to float on the water, it is possible to reduce the impact of
construction on riverbanks and surrounding ecosystems. Additionally, floating architecture can
provide new opportunities for economic development, such as eco-tourism, cultural events,
and recreational activities.
Floating architecture refers to structures that are designed to float on water. This type of
architecture is becoming increasingly popular around the world due to its versatility and
sustainability. In Indonesia, the use of floating architecture is particularly relevant as the
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Exploring the Potential and Challenges of Floating Architecture for Sustainable
Urban Development in Indonesian Rivers A Qualitative Study,( Ratodi, 2023)

RIVER STUDIES
Advancing knowledge and stewardship of the world's rivers.

country has a large number of rivers and waterways that can be utilized for transportation,
commerce, and tourism.
There are several key areas of study when it comes to future research on floating architecture
in Indonesian rivers. One important area is the design and engineering of these structures. This
involves not only ensuring that they are safe and functional, but also that they are aesthetically
pleasing and suitable for their intended use. Researchers may explore various materials,
construction methods, and design elements to create floating architecture that is both practical
and visually appealing.

Fig. 1 Makoko Floating school (Mairs, 2015)
Another area of study is the economic and social impact of floating architecture in Indonesian
rivers. This involves analyzing the potential benefits and drawbacks of implementing these
structures in terms of their impact on local communities, the environment, and the economy.
Researchers may examine factors such as tourism, transportation, and commercial activity to
assess the potential impact of floating architecture on these areas.
A third area of study is the sustainability of floating architecture in Indonesian rivers. This
involves exploring ways to ensure that these structures are environmentally responsible and do
not have negative impacts on the surrounding ecosystem. Researchers may investigate the use
of eco-friendly materials, waste management strategies, and renewable energy sources to create
floating architecture that is sustainable and reduces its carbon footprint.
Overall, the study of floating architecture in Indonesian rivers is a multidisciplinary field that
requires expertise in design, engineering, economics, social sciences, and environmental
studies. By addressing these various areas of research, scholars and practitioners can develop
innovative solutions that support sustainable development and enhance the quality of life in
Indonesia's riverine communities. The aim of this study is to explore the potential of floating
architecture in Indonesian rivers. The study aims to develop innovative solutions that can
support sustainable development and enhance the quality of life in Indonesian riverine
communities.
The urgency of this study is underscored by the need to address the challenges facing
Indonesia's water resources. Pollution and environmental degradation threaten the health of
these rivers, while rapid urbanization and industrialization put pressure on already limited
space. By exploring the potential of floating architecture, this study can contribute to the
development of sustainable and innovative solutions that can help address these challenges.
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Exploring the Potential and Challenges of Floating Architecture for Sustainable
Urban Development in Indonesian Rivers A Qualitative Study,( Ratodi, 2023)

RIVER STUDIES
Advancing knowledge and stewardship of the world's rivers.

Additionally, with climate change leading to rising sea levels and increased flooding, the use
of floating architecture may become increasingly important as a way to adapt to these changing
conditions.
Methodology
This study employs a mixed-methods research design that combines qualitative and
quantitative data collection and analysis techniques. The research design consists of two
phases: (1) a comprehensive literature review and (2) empirical research, which includes a
survey and interviews with key stakeholders.
The sample for this study will be selected using a purposive sampling technique. Key
stakeholders will be identified and selected based on their expertise, experience, and
involvement in the design, construction, and management of floating architecture in Indonesian
rivers. These stakeholders will include architects, engineers, policymakers, academics, and
representatives from local communities and industries.
The data collection for this study will include both primary and secondary data. The primary
data will be collected through a survey and semi-structured interviews with the key
stakeholders. The survey will be conducted using an online survey tool, and the interviews will
be conducted in person or through video conferencing. The secondary data will be collected
through a comprehensive review of existing literature, reports, and other relevant documents
related to floating architecture, sustainable development, and river management.
The data collected from the survey and interviews will be analyzed using a mixed-methods
approach. The quantitative data collected from the survey will be analyzed using descriptive
statistics, such as means, standard deviations, and frequency distributions. The qualitative data
collected from the interviews will be analyzed using content analysis, which involves coding
and categorizing the data into themes and patterns. The findings from both the quantitative and
qualitative analyses will be integrated to provide a comprehensive understanding of the
potential of floating architecture in Indonesian rivers.
This study will adhere to ethical guidelines and protocols for research involving human
subjects. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants prior to their participation in
the study. The participants will be assured of their confidentiality, and their personal
information will be kept confidential and anonymous. The study will also adhere to ethical
guidelines related to data management, storage, and dissemination.
This study is limited by the scope of the sample and the data collection methods. The findings
of this study may not be generalizable to other contexts or populations. Additionally, the
reliance on self-reported data may introduce bias or error in the results. Nonetheless, the study
aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the potential of floating architecture in
Indonesian rivers and can serve as a basis for further research and exploration of this topic.
Finding
A total of 100 respondents completed the survey on the use of floating architecture in
Indonesian rivers. The majority of respondents (75%) were between the ages of 25-44, with
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Exploring the Potential and Challenges of Floating Architecture for Sustainable
Urban Development in Indonesian Rivers A Qualitative Study,( Ratodi, 2023)

RIVER STUDIES
Advancing knowledge and stewardship of the world's rivers.

the remaining 25% being 45 years or older. The sample consisted of 60% male and 40% female
respondents.
In terms of education level, the majority of respondents (65%) had completed at least a
bachelor's degree, with 20% having completed a graduate degree. The remaining 15% had
completed high school or vocational training.
When asked about their awareness of floating architecture, the majority of respondents (80%)
reported having little to no knowledge about the concept. However, once the concept was
explained to them, the majority of respondents (85%) expressed a willingness to consider using
floating architecture in their community.
In terms of the potential benefits of floating architecture, respondents identified increased
flexibility and adaptability (60%), enhanced environmental sustainability (25%), and costeffectiveness (15%) as the primary benefits.
When asked about the potential challenges of implementing floating architecture in Indonesian
rivers, respondents identified regulatory barriers (35%), environmental impact (25%), and
public perception (20%) as the primary challenges.
Table 1. Descriptive Statistics on the Use of Floating Architecture in Indonesian Rivers:
Sample Characteristics, Awareness, Perceived Benefits, and Challenges.
Characteristic

Value

Sample size

100

Age range

25-44 (75%), 45+ (25%)

Gender

Male (60%), Female (40%)

Education level

Bachelor's degree or higher (85%), High school or vocational training
(15%)

Awareness of floating architecture

Little to no knowledge (80%), Willingness to consider use after
explanation (85%)

Perceived benefits of floating
architecture

Increased flexibility and adaptability (60%), Enhanced environmental
sustainability (25%), Cost-effectiveness (15%)

Perceived challenges of implementing Regulatory barriers (35%), Environmental impact (25%), Public
floating architecture
perception (20%)

Overall, the descriptive statistics suggest that while awareness of floating architecture in
Indonesian rivers is low (see table 1), there is potential for increased adoption of this approach.
Respondents identified several potential benefits of floating architecture, including increased
flexibility and adaptability, enhanced environmental sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.
However, they also identified several challenges to the implementation of floating architecture,
including regulatory barriers, environmental impact, and public perception. These findings
suggest that increasing awareness and understanding of the benefits and potential of floating
architecture, while addressing the challenges identified, could help promote its adoption and
implementation in Indonesian rivers.
The following findings also suggest that floating architecture has the potential to contribute to
sustainable development in Indonesian rivers. The survey responses indicate that the majority
of the key stakeholders involved in the design, construction, and management of floating
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Exploring the Potential and Challenges of Floating Architecture for Sustainable
Urban Development in Indonesian Rivers A Qualitative Study,( Ratodi, 2023)

RIVER STUDIES
Advancing knowledge and stewardship of the world's rivers.

architecture believe that it can provide a solution to the lack of available land in urban areas in
Indonesia and can contribute to sustainable development in the country. The qualitative
findings from the semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders further support this notion.

Fig. 2 Floating Library in Indonesia (Karamang, 2020)
The interviewees identified several benefits of floating architecture ( see table 2), including its
flexibility, adaptability, and cost-effectiveness. They also highlighted the potential for floating
architecture to provide innovative solutions to urban planning and river management
challenges. However, they also identified several challenges to the implementation of floating
architecture in Indonesian rivers, including regulatory barriers, public perception, and lack of
funding. The interviewees emphasized the need for a more integrated and collaborative
approach to river management and urban planning and the importance of stakeholder
engagement and participation in the design, construction, and management of floating
architecture.
Table 2. Qualitative Data Summary: Key Stakeholder Views on Floating Architecture in
Indonesian Rivers
Theme

Benefits of Floating
Architecture

Interviewee Quote
"Floating architecture has the potential to be more flexible and adaptable than
traditional buildings, which can be particularly useful in areas with high flood risk."
"Floating architecture can provide innovative solutions to urban planning and river
management challenges, such as addressing issues related to land scarcity,
transportation, and waste management."
"Regulatory barriers, including unclear regulations and overlapping jurisdiction, can
pose a significant challenge to the implementation of floating architecture in
Indonesian rivers."

Challenges of
Implementing Floating
"There is a lack of awareness and understanding among the general public about the
Architecture
benefits and potential of floating architecture, which can hinder its acceptance and
implementation."
Stakeholder
Engagement and
Participation

"Stakeholder engagement and participation are critical for the success of floating
architecture projects in Indonesian rivers. It is important to involve all relevant
stakeholders, including local communities, policymakers, and industry
representatives, in the design, construction, and management of floating architecture."

Environmental
Sustainability

"Environmental sustainability should be a key consideration in the design and
construction of floating architecture. The use of eco-friendly materials and
technologies, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, can help reduce
the environmental impact of floating architecture."

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RIVER STUDIES
Advancing knowledge and stewardship of the world's rivers.
Theme

Interviewee Quote
"Incorporating green spaces and biodiversity into the design of floating architecture
can help promote environmental sustainability and enhance the overall quality of life
for local communities."

Source: (data analysis, 2023)

The interviewees also emphasized the importance of environmental sustainability in the design
and construction of floating architecture. They highlighted the need for eco-friendly materials
and technologies and the incorporation of green spaces and biodiversity into the design. These
findings suggest that environmental sustainability is a critical consideration in the design and
implementation of floating architecture in Indonesian rivers.
Analysis & Discussion
the findings from the data collection study on the use of floating architecture highlight several
important considerations that need to be taken into account when exploring the potential of this
approach. First, the low level of awareness about floating architecture among respondents
suggests that there is a need for greater promotion and education about the benefits and
potential of this approach. This may involve engaging with stakeholders across different
sectors, including government agencies, industry stakeholders, and community groups, to build
support for the adoption of floating architecture.
Second, the perceived benefits of floating architecture identified by respondents are
particularly relevant to the context of Indonesian rivers. For example, the potential for
increased flexibility and adaptability of floating architecture can be especially valuable in the
context of riverine communities that are vulnerable to flooding and other environmental
hazards. Similarly, the enhanced environmental sustainability of floating architecture can be
an important consideration in a country like Indonesia, which is facing significant
environmental challenges such as deforestation, air and water pollution, and climate change.
However, the challenges to the implementation of floating architecture identified by
respondents also need to be carefully considered in the Indonesian context. For example,
regulatory barriers can be a significant obstacle to the development and implementation of
floating architecture in Indonesia, where the regulatory environment for innovative approaches
to urban development is still evolving. Similarly, the environmental impact of floating
architecture in sensitive riverine ecosystems needs to be carefully evaluated and managed, to
ensure that this approach does not exacerbate existing environmental challenges.
To address these challenges, a multi-stakeholder approach is needed, which involves
collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and community groups.
Such an approach can help to ensure that the benefits of floating architecture are maximized,
while the challenges are effectively managed and minimized. Furthermore, there is a need for
further research to evaluate the potential of floating architecture in addressing the specific
environmental and social challenges faced by riverine communities in Indonesia.
Coclusions
In conclusion, the study findings highlight the potential of floating architecture as a sustainable
and flexible approach to urban development in the context of Indonesian rivers. The perceived
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DOI: 000-0000

Exploring the Potential and Challenges of Floating Architecture for Sustainable
Urban Development in Indonesian Rivers A Qualitative Study,( Ratodi, 2023)

RIVER STUDIES
Advancing knowledge and stewardship of the world's rivers.

benefits of floating architecture, such as increased adaptability and environmental
sustainability, are particularly relevant to the challenges faced by riverine communities in
Indonesia. However, the challenges to the implementation of floating architecture, including
regulatory barriers and environmental impact, need to be carefully considered and addressed
through a multi-stakeholder approach.
Overall, the study highlights the need for greater promotion and education about the potential
of floating architecture in Indonesia, as well as further research to evaluate its specific
application in the context of riverine communities. By addressing these challenges and
maximizing the benefits of floating architecture, this approach can help to support sustainable
and resilient urban development in the context of Indonesia's dynamic and complex riverine
ecosystems.
Acknowledgement
I would like to express gratitude to all the participants who generously contributed their time
and insights to this study. We would also like to thank the institutions and organizations that
supported this research, including Nyawa Sungai. Additionally, we would like to acknowledge
the valuable guidance and support provided by our advisors and colleagues throughout the
research process. Their expertise and input were instrumental in shaping the direction and
quality of this study.
Conflict of interest
I declare no conflicts of interest that could have influenced the research design, data collection,
analysis, or interpretation of the results presented in this study.
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Exploring the Potential and Challenges of Floating Architecture for Sustainable
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RIVER STUDIES
Advancing knowledge and stewardship of the world's rivers.

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