M Bloc Space

Historical Transformation: From Peruri Official Housing to Public Space

M Bloc Space occupies a 7,000 square meter area that was once the official housing for the Perusahaan Umum Percetakan Uang Republik Indonesia (Peruri). For years, these buildings, with their distinctive 1950s tropical jengki architectural style, were abandoned and tightly sealed.

In late 2019, through a collaboration between Peruri and private parties, the area was revitalized without altering its original structure. This evolution is highly significant; the building facades were maintained to preserve their historical value, while the interiors were renovated into functional and aesthetic spaces. This step makes M Bloc Space a successful example of adaptive reuse in Jakarta, where old buildings are not demolished but given a "new life" as a recreational destination.

Recreational Activities and Main Facilities

Visitors stepping into M Bloc Space will immediately feel a different atmosphere from Jakarta's grand malls. Here, recreational activities focus on social interaction and appreciation for local products.

1. Local and Modern Culinary Tourism: M Bloc Space is home to various strictly curated food and beverage outlets. Visitors will not find global fast food outlets here. Instead, you can enjoy dishes from local brands like M Bloc Market, which offers fresh ingredients, to thematic restaurants serving Nusantara cuisine with modern presentation.

2. Shopping for Creative Products: There are various shops selling vinyl records, books from independent publishers, and fashion products by local designers. Shopping here offers an intellectual recreational experience that is hard to find elsewhere.

3. M Bloc Live House: For music lovers, this facility is the heart of entertainment at M Bloc. This indoor performance space regularly hosts music concerts of various genres, from indie, jazz, to rock. The professionally designed room acoustics ensure an intimate music listening experience.

Entertainment and Art Exploration Experience

One of M Bloc Space's unique features is its role as a platform for artistic expression. Along the corridors and walls of the buildings, visitors often find contemporary art installations or murals that change periodically. This makes every visit a new visual experience.

Besides music, entertainment at M Bloc Space also includes independent film screenings, literature discussions, and creative workshops. Visitors can attend classes on pottery making, painting, or analog photography workshops. This is a form of active recreation that involves visitor participation, not just passive observation.

Family-Friendly Features and Visitor Safety

Although often identified as a hangout spot for young people, M Bloc Space is actually very family-friendly. The concept of a completely car-free area (pedestrian-only) provides a sense of security for parents bringing their children for a leisurely stroll.

Children can explore the open spaces without worrying about vehicle traffic. In the afternoon, the courtyard area is often used for relaxing and enjoying the outdoor air. Additionally, public facilities such as clean restrooms and representative prayer rooms add to the comfort for families wishing to spend a long time here.

Cultural Significance and Community Role

M Bloc Space has grown to become a symbol of the creative community's resurgence in South Jakarta. This place serves as a bridge between the older generation who miss the old Melawai atmosphere and the younger generation seeking new spaces for expression.

Its existence actively supports sustainability campaigns. For example, the plastic bag-free policy and full support for local brands (MSMEs) show that recreation here has a positive social and economic impact. M Bloc Space is not just a tourist spot, but a cultural movement promoting a more humane and creative urban lifestyle.

Visitor Information and Best Time to Visit

M Bloc Space is located directly opposite Blok M Terminal and near the Blok M BCA MRT station. Easy accessibility using public transportation makes it a very affordable destination for anyone.

• Best Time: To experience a calm atmosphere and take aesthetic photos without too many distractions, visit on weekdays (Monday-Thursday) in the morning or afternoon. However, if you want to feel Jakarta's true creative energy, weekends in the afternoon to evening are the most suitable times. That's when music concerts are usually held and communities gather.
• Transportation Access: Visitors are strongly advised to use the MRT or TransJakarta as M Bloc Space does not provide private vehicle parking within the area. This is part of the eco-friendly concept it promotes.

Unique Recreational Experience: Nostalgia in Modernity

What truly sets M Bloc Space apart is its ability to blend the aroma of the past with the energy of the present. Sitting in one of the coffee shops while admiring the jengki architecture, then walking a few steps to watch a modern music performance, creates a captivating contrast.

Here, recreation is not just about spending money, but about absorbing inspiration. Every corner of M Bloc Space tells a story of South Jakarta's dynamic history. The experience of walking through the back alleys adorned with hanging lamps at night provides a romantic sensation and a strong urban vibration.

Overall, M Bloc Space is a manifestation of how a public space should be managed in a metropolitan city. It provides space for art, culture, history, and the creative economy to unite in one harmonious area. For anyone wanting to understand the heartbeat of South Jakarta's creativity, M Bloc Space is a must-visit destination that offers more than just an ordinary recreational spot.