Remembering Ar. Didi Haryadi, IAI, Senior Member of the Indonesian Architects Council

from: Lana Winayanti

Photo credit: dewanarsitek.id

With deep sorrow, I remember the passing of Didi Haryadi, a figure who made significant contributions to the world of Indonesian architecture. 

I first met Didi Haryadi during our college years. Didi, as I used to call him, was a year ahead of me in the architecture department at ITB. Although we didn’t interact much back then due to being in different cohorts, I always admired his humble and friendly demeanor, accompanied by his strong Javanese accent. It turns out Didi was from Gombong.

After graduation, we occasionally met at various events, such as architect association meetings, exhibitions, hospital design consultations when Didi was still building his career at a renowned architectural firm, and later, when Didi had his own firm and became a resource person for various ministries on apartment design. From those encounters, I came to know Didi as a kind-hearted person who was always ready to help and share his knowledge.

It was only when we served together on the Indonesian Architects Council (DAI) that I had the chance to get to know Didi more closely. His appearance remained modest—only his hair had turned increasingly white. Outside formal meetings, when we relaxed over coffee (and Didi always with his cigarette), I saw a more open and storytelling side of him. We could talk for hours, discussing various ideas and perspectives. At DAI, Didi often became the figure who was ready to nurture and provide the best solutions. The informal approach that Didi recommended was key to maintaining relationships with partners and resolving issues.

as registrar At DAI, Didi's dedication was beyond question. He often worked late into the night, meticulously reviewing data and drawings. Despite being tired, he could still spot discrepancies that others often overlooked. Didi exemplified extraordinary commitment to advancing the architecture profession in Indonesia. With decades of practical experience, Didi contributed many valuable proposals to develop a better architect registration system in Indonesia.

Our last meeting took place in Makassar during the 4th ASEAN Architect Congress (July 25–27, 2023). There, Didi seemed quieter than usual. After the congress, he spent much of his time behind his phone camera, capturing photos of the Makassar sunset. Upon returning to Jakarta, Didi was once again busy with the design of apartment buildings, which had become... passion-...his focus. Despite his busy schedule, Didi still attended DAI meetings via Zoom. His final contribution was advocating for STRA to be included as a requirement in apartment building tenders, and, Alhamdulillah, he succeeded.

However, fate had other plans. On the morning of August 9, 2024, while on his way to the State Secretariat to present an apartment design, Didi took his last breath. His passing was so sudden and shocked us all.

Farewell, Didi. Your kindness, dedication, and spirit will always be remembered. Your efforts to advance the architecture profession in Indonesia will continue through us. 

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