From colonies to constructs
Navigating power dynamics through Dutch colonial architecture in the Dutch East Indies
R.A.M. Boerma (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
Hilde Sennema – Mentor (TU Delft - History, Form & Aesthetics)
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Abstract
This thesis delves into Dutch colonial architecture in the Dutch East Indies, exploring the connection between power structures in colonialism and architecture. This involves examining how colonial architecture is used to exert power and also how, conversely, the land itself can influence this architecture. Through a historical lens, the study explores the shift in architectural styles over time, reflecting changing political landscapes. Environmental influences, particularly the challenges posed by the tropical climate but also the indigenous cultures, are analysed in relation to architectural adaptations. Postcolonial reinterpretations and contemporary identities are also considered, shedding light on how indigenous populations interact with and perceive colonialera structures. By intertwining historical narratives with architectural theory, this research offers insights into the complex interplay between power, culture, and architecture in a colonial context.