These four innermost main house columns are surmounted by a unique structural element known as tumpang sari.

The basic joglo-type houses can be increased in size by adding extra columns and extending the roof area outwards.

Traditionally, the joglo roof is used for the house proper (omah) or the pavilion (pendopo) of noble families.

In modern times, the area has no specific usage, but traditionally an incense was burnt once a week in this area to honor the rice goddess Dewi Sri, or in Central Java, to honor Nyai Roro Kidul.

Joglo roof has influenced the development of Dutch colonial architecture in Indonesia.