Aceh, located in the western region of Indonesia, possesses a rich cultural and historical legacy shaped by diverse ethnic influences that have formed the Acehnese Malay identity. Among its significant cultural assets is Rumoh Aceh, a traditional residential architecture that embodies local values but is increasingly threatened by modernization and changing housing practices. This study extends a doctoral research project that applies Gadamerian Hermeneutics, particularly the concept of the “fusion of horizons” introduced by Hans-Georg Gadamer, to reinterpret the architectural meaning of Rumoh Aceh within contemporary contexts. The research aims to develop a contextual design framework for simple housing based on the embedded values of traditional architecture. The findings identify four key design principles derived from Rumoh Aceh: (1) spirituality and symbolism, reflected in elements such as qibla orientation, odd-numbered staircases, and floral ornamentation as markers of identity; (2) environmental adaptation, including cross ventilation, elevated structures, and gable roofs suitable for tropical climates and disaster mitigation; (3) socio-cultural sustainability, emphasizing spatial arrangements that support family interaction, reception, and public–private boundaries; and (4) spatial flexibility, enabling multifunctional and land-efficient design while preserving cultural values. These principles were subsequently operationalized in the design of simple residential housing in Banda Aceh City and Aceh Besar Regency. The study contributes to bridging traditional architectural knowledge and contemporary housing needs by offering an evidence-based and culturally grounded guideline for sustainable simple housing development.