The residence was originally built by Liem Siaw Lam, Martha Tilaar’s father, a successful merchant in the Gombong area.
The building survived the Indonesian National Revolution and the subsequent occupation, serving various community roles over the decades.
The restoration project, led by Martha Tilaar herself, prioritized retaining original materials such as the authentic Peranakan-style floor tiles.
The site hosts a collection of traditional Indonesian herbal medicine (jamu) tools, highlighting the cultural roots of the company's products.
The house garden includes a collection of medicinal plants commonly used in traditional Javanese wellness practices.
Roemah Martha Tilaar is the beautifully restored childhood home of Indonesian cosmetics entrepreneur Martha Tilaar, located in Gombong, Central Java. Built in 1920, the house serves as a museum dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the Kebumen region and the history of the Tilaar family. The architecture reflects the Indo-European 'Indische Woonhuis' style, characterized by a mix of colonial and Javanese design elements. Visitors can view historical photographs, family heirlooms, and artifacts related to the development of the Martha Tilaar cosmetics empire. The museum also functions as a community center for local arts, education, and social activities. Its interiors feature original floor tiles, teak furniture, and high ceilings that facilitate natural ventilation.
The central living area with its preserved antique furniture and the symmetrical colonial-style front porch.
Check the official website or social media channels for current community events, as the house often hosts workshops or cultural performances.
Take time to examine the architectural details of the facade, which offers a prime example of early 20th-century residential design in Central Java.
Engage with the on-site guides, who are knowledgeable about the family history and the regional development of Gombong.
Avoid visiting without checking for private event closures, as the venue occasionally hosts community functions that restrict public access.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a respectful tone as it is a heritage site; modest attire is encouraged out of respect for the local culture.
