Retronesia, Tariq Khalil

The Years of Building Dangerously

Like new

This work provides a detailed overview of Indonesia's most creative architectural period: the 1950s and 60s. The book serves as both a style atlas and a travel guide documenting the so-called Jengki style (Yankee style). This movement, led by self-taught architects and visionaries shortly after independence, broke away from colonial Dutch traditions to forge a distinct, modern identity.

Key themes explored in this work include:

• Cultural Identity: How architecture was utilized to define a new Indonesia.
• Mid-century Modernism: The influence of international movements such as Googie and Art Deco on local designs.
• Oral History: Personal stories from the owners and residents of these extraordinary buildings.

Historical Context and Impact

Published in 2018 by Kabar Media, Retronesia fills a significant gap in the documented history of Indonesian architecture. The title references the turbulent era under President Sukarno ("The Year of Living Dangerously"), during which Indonesia balanced political instability with an explosion of creative freedom. The book has contributed to a renewed interest in this endangered heritage, which is often threatened by rapid modernization.

About the Author(s):

Tariq Khalil is an Indonesia-based photographer and writer of Scottish-Indian descent. His work focuses on the relationship between buildings and their hidden histories. He has previously exhibited in London, Dubai, and Jakarta with projects such as Places were Home. Khalil is a regular contributor on design and architecture for publications including Indonesia Design and Brava.

Media and Reception

The book has been widely covered by international and national media, including:

• BBC Indonesia and The Sydney Morning Herald, which praised the "quirky" and "bold" architecture.
• Tempo Magazine and Kompas (Indonesia), which emphasized the importance of documenting this forgotten heritage.
• On platforms such as Goodreads, it is hailed as an essential reference for enthusiasts of architectural history and retro design.

This book is in stock at our warehouse in the Netherlands and available for fast delivery (no customs fees for orders within the Netherlands and the EU).

Product Information

Title: Retronesia
Subtitle: The Years of Building Dangerously
Author(s): Tariq Khalil​
Cover Design: Yasser Rizky
Publisher: Kabar Media
ISBN: 9781643704388
Language: English
Binding: Paperback
Page Count: 192
Illustrations: Yes
Edition: 2018
Dimensions: 24.0 x 17.6 x 1.8 cm
Weight: 
Condition: Like new
EAN: 9781643704388
Special Features: Features over 50 curated destinations across the entire archipelago.
Categories: Architecture, History, Indonesia, Mid-century Modernism.

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