Why Do Cluster Housing Estates Always Have a Single Gate?

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Cluster housing is now a common sight in various residential areas across Indonesia. One of its distinctive features is the use of a separate gate with a single entrance system, commonly known as the one-gate system. Behind this, the cluster concept actually has a long history that began with exclusive housing. Deputy General Chairman of the Central Executive Board of the Real Estate Indonesia (Waketum DPP REI) Bambang Ekajaya explained that the term cluster refers to a group of housing within one area that is closed and exclusive. “Cluster in property is defined as one part of an area that is exclusive in nature. Initially, this concept was applied in certain areas such as around the Pondok Indah golf course,” Bambang told Kompas.com on Tuesday (14/4/2026). According to him, at its inception, the cluster concept was only intended for limited circles. Housing buyers even had to go through recommendations from other residents. However, in its development, the cluster concept then turned into a marketing strategy widely used by developers to create residential areas with added value. “In its journey, clusters became one of the marketing strategies to create exclusive areas in property developments that are now growing in number,” said Bambang. He explained that the main characteristic of a cluster is its closed nature, where only residents and guests can access the area through a single entrance. In addition to serving as the area’s identity, the use of gates in clusters also has several main functions, one of which is the integrated security factor. “With special access only for residents and guests, equipped with CCTV and 24-hour security, it creates a sense of security for the residents,” he said. Not only that, the presence of the gate also creates a quieter and more comfortable environment because it is free from public traffic. Another equally important factor is the aspect of exclusivity. According to Bambang, the cluster concept provides a sense of pride for homeowners. “It becomes a source of pride for the owners, so cluster owners are considered part of a select group,” he said.