Jasin Tedjasukmana

Jasin

The life values upheld by Jasin are deeply reflected in the philosophy behind the founding of KIAT Architects in 1987. With more than a decade of professional experience in architecture, he established the firm on the belief that every architectural work should unite aesthetic beauty, functional efficiency, and sensitivity to environmental and cultural context. The name “KIAT,” derived from the Javanese word meaning “to know the best thing to do,” embodies Jasin’s conviction that architecture is the art of making the best decisions to achieve harmony between people, space, and nature. This philosophy has not only guided his professional practice but has also become a legacy of values he instills within his professional environment and family.

1977 Bachelor of Architecture, Parahyangan University, Bandung

1987 - present Principal Architect and Founder KIAT Architects; 1978 - 1983 Lecturer, Faculty of Architecture, Tarumanagara University, Jakarta; 1977 - 1978 Architect, James Ferrie & Partners, Jakarta and Singapore

KIAT Architects

As a principal architect, Jasin has created numerous architectural works that reflect a deep sensitivity to cultural, historical, and environmental contexts. Among his most distinguished projects are The Dharmawangsa Hotel in Jakarta, which blends Dutch colonial architecture with Indonesian local elements to create an elegant and timeless atmosphere; The Hermitage, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Jakarta, which adapts neoclassical design within a historic building and earned the Hospitality Design Award in 2023; and The Residences at Mandarin Oriental in Bali, a luxury residential project that harmoniously integrates contemporary design with Bali’s natural beauty. His project Citra Niaga in Samarinda received the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1989 for its innovative design responsive to local context. In 2018, Jasin published his first book, Gentle Proportions: Residence, featuring nine selected residential works by KIAT Architects, complete with photographs and technical drawings that illustrate the detailed design process. Through his works and publications, Jasin continues to share his experience and enrich the architectural knowledge of Indonesia’s younger generation.

Beyond his architectural practice, Jasin Tedjasukmana made notable contributions as a mentor and educator, where he formerly served as a lecturer at Tarumanagara University.

Indonesian Institute of Architects (IAI) Jakarta Award: Designer of Menteng Heritage, Jakarta 2015; Legrand Award for Excellent Lighting Design for Daksa Residence, Jakarta 2006; Aga Khan Award for Architecture for Citra Niaga, Samarinda, East Borneo 1989; First winner at the Redevelopment of the Central District of Pasar Baru, Jakarta 1980

Indonesian Institute of Architects (IAI)

Jasin’s greatest achievements extend far beyond formal awards, reflecting his profound and lasting impact on Indonesian architecture. As the founder and principal of KIAT Architects, he has shaped the modern architectural landscape in Indonesia through iconic projects such as The Dharmawangsa Hotel, The Hermitage Hotel, and Citra Niaga Samarinda, skillfully blending classical elegance with local cultural context.

Bahasa, English

One of the most memorable moments in Jasin’s life occurred during the 1998 economic crisis. At that time, the business climate declined sharply, and he was faced with an extremely difficult decision to reduce a significant number of employees, including several foreign staff. It was an emotionally heavy experience, especially because he chose to let go of those with the greatest potential, believing they would be better equipped to build independent livelihoods outside the company. During this challenging period, Jasin lost confidence and began to doubt the future. However, the support of his wife became a source of strength; she reminded him that as long as he still had his brain and was alive, he could always keep going. That simple yet powerful reminder reignited his spirit to move forward. The experience became a valuable lesson that shaped Jasin into a warmer, wiser, and more resilient person in facing both professional and personal challenges.

For Jasin, the key to personal success lies in patience and the ability to manage emotions. He admits that early in his career, impatience often led him to frustration when work outcomes did not meet his expectations. Over time, however, he realized that anger serves no purpose, it only drains energy and disrupts focus while many projects demand completion. Guided by his principle of always providing the best service, Jasin learned that not everything can be resolved quickly, it requires calmness, perseverance, and a clear sense of priorities; Also gained valuable lessons through his involvement in church service, where interacting with people from diverse social backgrounds and personalities taught him the importance of empathy and understanding others’ perspectives.

https://kiatarch.com/

Information available only in printed publication available in libraries.