There is no end to exploring architectural works across Indonesia, as demonstrated by students of the Undergraduate Architecture Program, Universitas Gadjah Mada, who embarked on a journey to Surabaya, the City of Heroes, from 16–18 April 2026. Originating from the MateREALity class, which is held almost every Friday with practitioners and material manufacturers as guest speakers, 30 selected students participated in the “MateREALity Trip to Surabaya,” organized by the Architecture Undergraduate Program.
After traveling from Yogyakarta to Surabaya on Thursday, 16 April 2026, the students began the series of activities the following day with a visit to Sekolah Ciputra Kasih Surabaya, designed by KsAD Architect. The principal architect, Yuli Kalson Sagala, explained his approach to architectural projects, which places greater emphasis on “in-between spaces,” such as staircases, ramps, corridors, and movable walls. At Sekolah Ciputra Kasih, this concept is manifested through a ramp connecting the ground-floor entrance area to the gymnasium above, complemented by an imported polycarbonate façade that offers relatively greater weather resistance.
The journey continued with a visit to an art gallery located within a residential complex, Orasis Art Space. Designed by Hermawan Dasmanto, the gallery is characterized by understated geometric forms, intended to place greater emphasis on the artworks on display. The participants were then invited to explore the annual exhibition “Amang Rahman – Emanasi” and learn about the design process behind an exhibition space.
Before concluding the first day, the students stopped by the Secretariat Office of the Indonesian Institute of Architects (IAI) East Java. The group was welcomed by the Chair of IAI East Java, Ar. Fafan Tri Afandy, IAI, along with other members of the organization. From a practitioner’s perspective, the IAI representatives shared their experiences and offered valuable advice to the students as they prepare to embark on their careers as architects.
The following day, Saturday, 18 April 2026, began with a walk to the Kota Lama Surabaya (Old Town) area. The students were given the opportunity to explore the area freely while taking part in a quiz organized by the Architecture Undergraduate Program, challenging them to identify two architectural sites with historical significance. After exploring the area, the group continued their visit to Hotel Majapahit.
Hotel Majapahit is a heritage hotel built in 1910 and a witness to the historic tearing of the Dutch flag during Indonesia’s struggle for independence. The students were divided into two groups to explore the hotel, visiting Charlie Chaplin’s room, a former office used by independence fighters, and several other facilities. After the tour, the participants enjoyed a coffee break while listening to a presentation about Hotel Majapahit, from its establishment to the present day, with a particular focus on its architecture. The students actively engaged in discussions and asked questions about the building, which showcases Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles.
The “MateREALity Trip to Surabaya” successfully broadened the students’ perspectives on the diverse architectural typologies and styles found in Surabaya. This was reflected in their enthusiasm during the quiz held on the journey home, as well as the Instagram Story competition conducted throughout the trip. In this way, the activity contributed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.
Written by Nisrina Amalia Paramanindya
Photos by Naufal Wintrananda Subrata & Narendra Khayru Adiwibowo