Co-Designing Nature-based Solution for Organic Rice Cultivation as Cultural Landscape Conservation in the Gentungan Village, Mojogedang Karanganyar

Abstract Nature-based solutions (NbS) are increasingly promoted worldwide for simultaneously addressing environmental degradation and socio-economic challenges. The study explores the use of a rural design approach through NBS in organic rice cultivation as a strategy for preserving the cultural landscape of Mojogedang, Karanganyar, Central Java. The study offers a masterplan framework that integrates ecological principles, local wisdom, and sustainable rural development, recognizing the intrinsic link between agriculture and spatial identity. The research combines spatial rural planning, participatory design, and ecological assessment to develop a masterplan design that redefines organic farming as both a productive system and a cultural asset. The development of multipurpose rural spaces design includes reconfiguration of rice terraces to enhance visual and hydrological harmony, the restoration of traditional irrigation channels integrated with Mina Padi system cultivation and the development of multifunctional rural spaces such as eco-education hubs and biodiversity corridors. These interventions are spatially organized to strengthen the cultural legibility of the landscape while enhancing ecological function. Through a combination of field observations, land-use mapping, landscape indicator, interviews with local farmers, and participatory design process by stakeholder input. Results demonstrate improved environmental resilience, with enhanced biodiversity, landscape integrity alongside strengthened rural identity among residents. The co-design process also fosters a shared vision among farmer’s community, experts and policymakers, supporting long-term stewardship and land-based cultural continuity. Ultimately, by embedding NbS within a place-based masterplan, Mojogedang serves as a model for integrated rural transformation—where environmental, cultural, and spatial values converge in a resilient and living cultural landscape.