Architect A.F. Aalbers worked in "the Dutch East Indies" from 1930-1942 and established his own architectural firm in Bandung in 1937. Years earlier, in 1918, it was decided that Bandung would become the new capital of this former Dutch colony. Anticipating this, many government organizations and businesses move to the new capital in the making. This in turn attracts high-quality employment and Europeans, Chinese and Indonesians. These population groups do work together, but live separately in a rigid, racially defined social structure. Due to World War II and subsequent Indonesian independence, Bandung never became the capital as planned in 1918.

Aalbers is one of the architects who designs large and high-profile buildings during the interwar period: such as private residences, hotels and cinemas. Many of Aalbers' works in Bandung are located in the northern part of the city. They mark the area once allocated exclusively to European and well-to-do residents. The Irene Boulevard from Aalbers' time, is now called Jalan Surapati, named after the guerrilla leader who rebelled against the colonial ruler.

In the so-called "skeleton expansion plan," completed in 1927, areas in the south of the city are set aside for the native population. Kampong improvement plans were made and initiatives were launched for the construction of new cheap housing. Th. Karsten, the city council's urban planning advisor, in particular made an effort. Due to lack of financial means, however, affordable housing for the Indonesians is hardly ever built.