A timeless sanctuary where Jakarta’s heritage, creativity, and modern spirit converge to celebrate culture in motion

In the heart of Menteng, an area rich in history and culture, the iconic building Cikini 82 has come back to life with renewed energy. Once home to colonial elites and a silent witness to significant diplomatic events following Indonesia’s independence, this historic residence has been transformed into an open and inclusive cultural space that bridges the spirit of the past with the pulse of the present.

The revival of Cikini 82 was inaugurated through an event called Pusparagam, marking a new chapter in its journey as one of Jakarta’s cultural landmarks. Under the ownership and guidance of Lukas Budiono, the revitalization was carried out with great care and long-term vision. Every architectural detail of the colonial structure was meticulously preserved, honoring the building’s historical essence. Yet the restoration extends beyond physical preservation—it redefines the house as a living space that connects meaningfully with the rhythm of modern society.

Picture an old, graceful house standing amid Jakarta’s bustling streets at Jalan Cikini Raya No. 82. From the outside, its colonial façade exudes quiet elegance among rows of cafés and art galleries. Behind its classic wooden doors lies a story deeply intertwined with the nation’s history. This was once the home of Achmad Soebardjo, Indonesia’s first Minister of Foreign Affairs, and served as the inaugural office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Every corner of the house carries the legacy of Indonesia’s early diplomacy. In the living room, now illuminated by natural light, young diplomats once wrote letters, crafted strategies, and held discussions during the critical early years of independence. In 2024, the building underwent a major restoration that went beyond fixing roofs and walls—it sought to revive the spirit that once helped shape the nation’s identity.

Today, visitors stepping into Cikini 82 can feel the passage of time come alive. White walls, large restored wooden windows with their original details, and patterned vintage tiles create a seamless harmony between old and new. The main living room has been reimagined as a small exhibition space showcasing photographs of Achmad Soebardjo, diplomatic letters, and memorabilia from Indonesia’s early republic era. Meanwhile, a charming garden in the backyard, complete with wooden benches, offers a tranquil space for conversation, reading, or quiet reflection.

Cikini 82 is no longer just an old house—it is a living cultural venue that hosts historical discussions, book launches, and various artistic activities. It has become a gathering place where young people, cultural practitioners, and diplomats exchange ideas and foster intergenerational dialogue. Through its careful restoration and deep respect for heritage, Cikini 82 now stands as a symbol of Jakarta’s cultural resurgence—a space where the past, present, and future meet in perfect harmony.

photo source: instagram.com/cikini_82

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