2025 was the year when everything shifted, re-routed, and re-directed. It was like life hit the “shuffle” button, and suddenly I found myself on a track I didn’t even know existed. Yet between the confusion and constant adjusting I began to realize, it was along that path I was uncovering rare and precious pieces of puzzle I had been searching for over the past few years—pieces I might have never found otherwise.
Prelude
Exactly a week after my birthday, I came to one of Omah Library’s workshops with no agenda, no expectations — just a genuine desire to be around the things I love. Guha felt warm and welcoming, reminding you why you fell in love with architecture & design in the first place. I settled into the second row, let myself be present, and simply soaked it all in. Then, in the middle of the session, someone came and sat beside me. It was Kak Rich himself. I said hi, and we catched up after the workshop ended.
There was a flutter of nerves in me, the kind that comes when you stand in front of someone whose standard you deeply respect, and you suddenly become aware of how much more there is still to learn. Looking back, I was afraid that I might disappoint him. But I realized that nervousness was the feeling of someone who cares about growth, about the craft, about showing up as their best self. And the fact that Kak Rich’s presence still sparked that in me said everything about the kind of mentor he is. He raises your standards by simply being in the room.
I wanna learn, i desperately need to get better.
Not just for myself, but for all the people whose futures are somehow now in my ‘hands’.
Big Question Mark
I know Kak Rich before, he has always been a brilliant architect, an extraordinarily kind and honest one. But I never realized the depth of that kindness and how it extends far beyond anything I had ever imagined.
On the orientation night, Kak Rich passed on to us the concept of 99% is God’s grace, and the other 1% is human effort. It not only comforted me but also intrigued me, and it unlocked a question I had long before I arrived. If 1% is all we have, where do we choose to put it? As an architect, and a human being with limited time, how and when do we decide whether to master our strongest suits and let them flourish or to invest that effort in becoming conversant in the disciplines that surround our work, (like structure, MEP, and building systems, so-on)? I mean, there will always be specialists who own those domains. So perhaps the real question is how can we understand where our expertise ends and where exactly the collaboration begins ?
What stayed with me was how clearly he could see through and beneath the question. Because his answer pointed at something uncomfortably true that the line between We are not good at this and We have simply never been given the chance to try is thinner than we think. Too often we disqualify ourselves from things not out of genuine limitation, but out of unfamiliarity. And those are two very different things. How can we be certain we are not capable of something we have never genuinely been exposed to?
Not the Brain or the heart — The DNA
I remember one time at one of Kak Rich’s workshop he said that
“The real paradigm shift happens when we walk the talk, execute the theory and let the evaluation happen in a bitter way but honoring the way. That is control and mindful architecture.”
“I think the next paradigm shift will be led by people that always challenge clarity in the facts, methods, and evaluation in the form of learning. Maybe it’s perfected methods, the most important thing is they bring a positive vibe, an energy to share not colonialised things.”
Those words were not just philosophy but a blueprint. Because what is truly notable is that RAW, DOT Workshop, and Omah Library did not only build a space, building and team. They also built the people. I have watched how the best leaders observe closely + intently, not to evaluate but to understand. They notice what energizes someone, what they gravitate toward, where their instincts are sharpest. They will delegate thoughtfully, exactly where those strengths can shine. Then they say things like “it’s your time to shine!” And mean it with every bit of excitement those words deserve. Until one day you are standing in the right place and it will trace back to someone who saw that long before you did.
But there is another kind of courage I want to speak of. It belongs to those who gave chances to people who were still reaching. Who looked at someone standing at the edge of their comfort and encouraged them. These are the people who handed over unfamiliar territory to someone not yet familiar with it, knowing so well it would mean more work on their end. Extra guidance, consuming more time. the transferred knowledge, patient and detailed explanation, even correcting some errors. All while their own name stood as the guarantee.
That wasn’t easy, a very brave thing to do. Because the safe choice is always the proven one. But choosing someone who wants to push their limit, someone who is hungry to grow into something new; takes a leader who is willing to absorb risk on behalf of another person’s potential. They carried that weight so someone else could rise. And they did it quietly, without making it such a burden/big deal and without making the other person feel small for not knowing yet.
“Always have faith in people.”
As Kak Rich said in a morning meeting on random days at bamboo, I was deeply moved.
I have been the recipient of both. And it has shaped not just how I work, but how I see people, how I want to lead, and what kind of professional I am choosing to become. I carry these lessons not as footnotes to my growth, but as its very foundation.
Eight Realms — each division, an attraction to itself
- Castle / Manor (on a mountain surrounded by forest) – Sophia Team
Sophia’s work is rooted in conceptual, preliminary design play with color, form and shape exploration, in sequence and circulation, with empathy, imagination and intuition as a design tool. Taught me that abstraction is not the absence of logic, it is logic operating at a deeper frequency. Like its meaning, Sophia works with love as its founding principle expressed through curiosity, playfulness, and an openness to ideas, whether through design thinking or even everyday rituals. In a castle (or some may also call it Benteng) you can unlock the door that holds the magic of the room, and a different corridor leads into something unexpected. It’s like walking into an experimental / contemporary museum. With various typology of space and building that they worked on each day, countless iterations that can change the whole design in a finger snap. Don’t be surprised if sometimes you find yourself in a whole matcha bar setting at midnight and suddenly it changes to a gymnastic space some random morning and boardgame cafe the next afternoon, quite literally.
The Lovely & Passionate Kakak(s) ; Riyann, Sha-veerya(naa), Kennnnnnn, Meizzhan, Edho, Timmy, Zikuri-kun (said Shafira hehe ^^v)
- Cathedral – Techne Normative Team
The cathedral’s shape and character remind me of Techne Normative both in its scope of work and the people within it. It is a team that sharpens thinking through the discipline of producing residential shop drawings, from conceptualization to implementation. They embody true devotion to detail: years of structural and finishing mastery pushed to their limits, all in service of the most personal and sacred moments. Their systematic approach and attention to detail are not cold precision, but care made technical. Sharp, yet deeply intimate. This contrast is also reflected in their day-to-day rhythm. They often enter what they call a “locked-in” state, where everything else fades and distraction is not an option. But somewhere in between, you might find them casually doing yoga in the middle of the room as a quiet way of practicing the same complete focus, balance, and control that defines their work.
The Social Butterfly & Yin-Yang Kakak(s) ; Joshi, Kamil, Revyy, Nielson Huang, Gabbyyy, Riz(z)ka
- Opera House / Theater Building – Techne Substantive
Techne Substantive team feels like an opera house and theatre combined where precision and emotion are carefully orchestrated into a spatial experience. Operating at the intersection of logic and wonder, they work closely with interior and spatial design, shaping niche-targeted environments with a refined sense of care and sensitivity to how spaces are felt, experienced, and understood. Like a performance space, every sequence is intentional. Balancing technical precision with an explorative and delicate design language. Their work carries the nuance of a staged performance where music, light, material, proportion, and detail come together like elements of a production. Teaches every shape carries intention, and understanding the logic behind form. In their hands, space is not just constructed but composed and directed.
The Lively and Geek Kakak(s) ; Puttra, (Teh) Alaa, Ezzra, (Adik) Acha (adorement nickname from this division)
- Astronomical Observatory – Episteme
Episteme was my first team, and at the time, the work felt almost otherworldly in its complexity. It reminded me of an astronomical observatory like a fully engineered ecosystem where every system is interdependent and nothing operates in isolation. Episteme thinks at the scale of the cosmos, where architecture meets infrastructure through large-scale commercial projects, and where efficiency, cost, and system logic are not constraints, but the language of design. Despite the intensity, advanced technical drawings require precision, focus, and calculation. I found a surprising sense of balance within the team. Much of it came from a leader who was firm but also like a princess that brought a nurturing and playful energy into the environment. That made it possible for me to navigate and grow within such complexity in 2 periods.
The Determined and Cheerful Kakak(s) ; Chaiiiy, Novvi, Ikhsann, (Mas) Bengg
- Amusement Park / Arcade – Phronesis Team
The Phronesis team almost feels like an amusement park; fast-paced, dynamic, fun and nerve-wrecking (in an exciting way) because it was full of real stakes where design meets reality. They carry a natural sense of adventure, thriving in the adrenaline that comes from working on-site, where ideas are constantly tested against time, cost, quality, and the realities of construction. Acting as the bridge between design and execution, they ensure that what is envisioned in the studio can truly stand in the world. The environment demands adaptability, precision, and rapid decision-making. It is inherently intense and unpredictable, navigated with both control and a measured sense of humor. At its core are individuals of candor, placing truth and integrity above convenience, while maintaining the humility to learn continuously from the process.This rigor is matched by a quieter layer of gentleness. It appears in subtle adjustments like softened edges of furniture and stair elements to prevent harm, or moving from Guha Extensions to Guha to give extra care for Miki by visiting, petting, bathing and crafting a small bucket hat.
The Adventurous & Candid (originally Candor) Kakak(s) ; (Ci) Gabyyyyyy, Auull, Zyadi.., Ingriid, (Mas) Yusrull, Miiikii (Emotional support member)
- Laboratory & Data Center Facility – Analytic Team
The Avant Grande Team functions as an analytical and interpretive unit, translating contextual – environmental and design-support data into actionable parameters through research, simulation, and human-centered methodologies. It establishes the evidentiary basis for design decisions. I believe this is the domain of structured thinkers and organized individuals who dare to challenge the theory. They operate within a VAST range of systems that runs behind everything else. In parallel, the team curates institutional knowledge by refining methodologies, systematizing technical practices, and managing publications and awards, situating its work at the intersection of research and visual communication. Within this otherwise controlled system, a quiet generosity persists even under pressure and tight schedule, expressed through small unprompted acts like creating 3D-printed animal figures for MIracle & Heaven. Or assisting (young) designers when they first arrive till departure. But despite everything that has been conditioned there’s always things that go wild in the laboratory right? One of them is their random spotify playlist and when it comes to quick tests about the Upin & Ipin universe, or discussion of color / tone of the font.
The Insightful & Neat Kakak(s) ; Tyyyo, Adittyaa
- Naval Command Center / Air Traffic Control Tower – Strategic Team
The Strategic team is the architecture beneath the architecture—the hidden intelligence that keeps the entire mission on course. Positioned at the highest point, they operate with full, 360-degree visibility, tracking every moving part simultaneously. Moving between all realms, they maintain balance between ambition and limitation, speed and precision. Their role resembles a command center like directing operations, validating critical decisions, and providing real-time awareness across all stages to leaders and stakeholders. They oversee mission-critical tasks, from coordination to control, ensuring that every part of the system remains aligned. The space is occupied by only a few, but the most experienced individuals who have moved through all realms, carrying a deep understanding of each. From that vantage point, they see everything. And perhaps, in rare moments between decisions, I hope they also get to look up to notice the stars and stare at the constellation to enjoy the view while holding the entire system together.
The Composed & Visioner Kakak(s) ; Melllsss, Irfann, (Cici) Mei-Mei
- Historical & Monumental Building – Omah Library
Omah Library feels like a Greek Temple, calm, place of wisdom, enduring presence by carrying the accumulated knowledge of generations within its walls. They do not chase relevance but outlasts it. Exists to preserve ideas and pass them forward. Like how the earlier scientists are found in Greece. The work of Omah extends beyond architecture into a broader intellectual landscape including history, sociology, anthropology, philosophy, culture and so-on. Like archaeology, it seeks to understand human life through what is left behind, connecting past and present to inform the future generation.Through research, discourse, and reflection, Omah operates in a language that is often felt before it is fully understood. Like some people say words at its truest, it touches souls. This is the closest place you can go to grasp how Kak Rich sees, thinks, and intends; the foundation behind everything he has built (RAW Architecture, DOT Workshop, and Omah itself). Here, I witnessed the spark that glitter in his eyes when speaking about vision, dreams, and reflection. Something I have not encountered in other realms. It stands as a quiet testament to hope and kindness, a legacy in motion for the next generation and the rest of the members are the agents of change.
The Wise & Genuine .Kakak(s) ; Arlynn, Ufiii, (Bun) Siscaa, Jocelynn
Carry, Create, Continue
The whole ecosystem itself fosters growth by consistently challenging design boundaries and encouraging innovative solutions that integrate a commitment to serving nature with human-before-architecture principles, and maintaining strong aesthetically pleasing composition. I learned that even a single line carries responsibility, requiring greater awareness and offering the opportunity to approach things with a level of intention and consideration we may have previously overlooked.
Working in an ever-evolving environment alongside skilled and passionate professionals at RAW Architecture, DOT Workshop, and Omah Library has been a profoundly enriching journey that I did not anticipate. Engaging with a wide range of projects across varying scales and complexities, collaborating closely with different teams and divisions, and being involved hands-on at every stage of the design and build process have significantly enhanced my sensibility and adaptability.
My time there has not only strengthened my technical skills but also sharpened my ability to think critically and systemically within fast-paced, dynamic settings. More importantly, it has expanded my horizon and deepened my understanding of architecture as both a process and a responsibility that will always remain wherever I go.
The shift turned out to be the greatest god’s gift, it is creating space for things to realign; one of the most fascinating and profound journeys of my life. It gave me the space to sit with myself, self-discover, and begin unleashing a potential I did not yet know was fully there. If you’re ever feeling you just kept going through the motions, wondering why nothing ever felt like yours in life, I want to remind you that it’s okay to pause and step aside, take a moment to explore and be exposed to many things. The time you invest in yourself is never a waste. Remember:
Not all those who wander are lost. – J.R.R. Tolkien
Also shout out to The Kindest Kawan(s) ; Shafira, Gabby, Kak Nielson, Alma, Feli, Sha, Aisyah, Manas, Faizal, Novel, Karisya, Shadiq, Bima, Luna, Tristan, Raniya, Vita, Putri, Helen, Wawaa, Edel, Jomul, Hafizh, Rein, Greg, Yoel, Aldi, Iva, Marvel, Farhan, Yusuf, Rehan, Bobby, Hasna, Shylla, Anevay, Icha, Fida, Netta, Salma, Alfa, Adli, Riki, Maii, Lusi, Rizal, Dimas, Farid, Hasan, Friendly, Fezka, Gantari, Cua, Imdi, Clara, Alize, Lou-anne, and moree.
Ps; to everyone who stays and continues the learning process in RAW Architecture, DOT Workshop and Omah Library, you have the best teacher, mentor and a parent figure who thinks seriously about your dream, growth, and well-being. Kak Rich said one morning at sky “Goals kita setiap harinya adalah memperbaiki apa yang ada. Semoga dalam perjalanan ini; tujuan dan mimpi kita saling beririsan.” That’s really beautiful. He’s always been true to his word. I hope you have enough courage to tell him about how you feel and think. Because trust me, he can see right through you. But please also remember that for that exact the same reason you need to give some time to finally understand.
Let’s make life the most out of it! I hope our path will cross again in the most beautiful way ^^
With deep respect and gratitude,
Ahlal
My Mayonnaise Jar 