Contemporary Indonesian architect Isandra Matin Ahmad is known for his sensitive use of space and his contribution to architecture in Indonesia on the whole - being a founder of Arsitek Muda Indonesia (Young Architects of Indonesia, AMI). After featuring his beautiful house in issue 24 of Habitus, we were naturally eager to find out a bit more about this creative man.

Name: Andra Matin
Where you are from/live: Jakarta
What you do: Architect

When did you first know you wanted to be an architect?
When I was in high school, I visited my relative’s house and I found his house very interesting with the corridors and it was an unexpected experience. That’s when I knew I was attracted to space.
Your latest project: a private school in Bekasi, Jakarta
Where you find inspiration: anywhere

Andra Matin’s home
Three people that inspire/excite you:
1) My parents
2) Le Corbusier
3) Kate Moss

What is your favourite…

Car/bike/plane/boat model: Volvo
Chair model: Rabbit Chair by SANAA. Although it’s not a comfy chair, I like the fun part of the design.
Residential space: My house
Commercial space: Daikanyama, Tokyo and San Miguel Market, Madrid
Decorative product: none
Functional product: wall clock
Handmade good: weaving product by Tenun Baron
Mass-produced good: Muji products

Rabbit Chair
Item in your studio: books
Time of day to work/play: anytime
Meal: Empek-empek, Indonesian fishcake
Restaurant: La Lucciola, Bali
Drink: Lahang, Indonesian fermented drink made of local plants
Bar: Potato Head Beach Club, Bali
Piece of technology: Apple products
Historical figure: Soekarno, Indonesia’s first president
Fictional character: Starwars characters
Vice: Traveling
Virtue: Honesty & Freedom

What does the term ‘Design Hunter’ mean to you?
Constant search of the latest and intriguing art, architecture, culture, graphic and others that relate to intangible aspects or senses.

Photography by Martin Westlake
Andra Matin
andramatin.com