The modern filipino house is inspired by our unique way of life. The design is rooted from our diverse history and culture that has evolved over time. From the traditional use of indigenous materials such as wood and capiz, designers and homeowners alike have added other elements to modernize the Filipino home due to our changing needs and preferences. Though Filipino home still draws heavily from tradition, global design trends are reflected throughout the house, while maintaining its distinct identity and personality.
Filipinos have an innate ability to make popular trends their own –– especially when it comes to the home. The modern filipino house perfectly blends different styles and aesthetics. Indigenous materials are weaved in with clean lines, decorated minimalism, and neutral tones popular in western architecture and design. Read on to discover some of the unique features that make the Filipino home stand out.
Openness
Because of the country’s hot and humid climate, Filipino homes have a tropical design that emphasizes open layouts, sustainable elements, and natural ventilation. This openness and lightness became part of the local aesthetics out of necessity. Up to this day, it’s important for Filipinos that the house feels maaliwalas. Indoors flow towards the outdoors, and vice versa to let the sunlight in, and as a clever way of staying cool despite the tropical heat. Usually, daylight floods the living area through large, bare-trimmed glass windows and sliding doors.
In a way, the very essence of the traditional bahay kubo or nipa hut is celebrated. Most local designers would agree that today’s designs are all rooted from the sound principles of traditional Filipino architecture. Just like the bahay kubo, the modern Filipino home has an airy yet cozy nature because of natural ventilation. This sense of openness unites the house with the natural environment that surrounds it.
Shared spaces
Inside the Filipino household, it is not uncommon to see children sleeping in the same bedroom as their parents, or extended family living in one of the upstairs room. Our notion of a household is different from that of other cultures –– and this behavior greatly influences the size, flexibility, and open layouts of the designs.
Festive persona
Filipinos are said to have to a very positive outlook in life. We always find reasons to celebrate something. And this behavior extends to the homes we live in. Many local designers are quick to point out that our homes evoke our culture and festive persona. Just like the food we prepare during small gatherings and fiestas, the Filipino home tends to be very flavorful –– various colors and patterns are reflected throughout the house, traditional and contemporary artworks adorn our walls, and even the souvenirs from our various travels are proudly displayed in the living room. Even with our use of muted or neutral colors, every inch of space in the house comes to life.
Weaving tradition
One of the key elements of a Filipino home is the use of a weaved pattern. Much like the pattern seen in our grandparents’ rocking chair, a lot of Filipino furniture pieces feature “Solihiya”, a popular rattan weaving technique. When used with decor or fixtures around the house, this element allows the breeze to pass through, making it ideal for the hot and humid weather. It also prevents mold and mildew to grow inside cabinets and other furniture. The new generation of Filipino designers have started to put a modern twist to the traditional pattern, using it as an accent in their tropical design.
Another tradition that is being modernized is the bahay na bato or the modern cement finish. Inspired by the Spanish colonial era that gave birth to stone and masonry construction in the country, this technique features materials like stone and brick on the ground floor, providing a sturdier and more stable foundation. This is essential to make the house stronger against earthquakes, flooding, and storms. This look is also usually combined with wood to add warmth to the space, with woodworks usually found in the upper levels.
Sustainability
As you can tell, the Filipino home draws from sustainable architecture. One of its more telling characteristics is the touches of nature throughout the living space. From abaca to bamboo, sustainable materials are seen as staples in the modern filipino house. The use of natural materials is like bringing a piece of the country’s lush landscape inside the living space, nurturing a sense of warmth and connection to nature in your home.
You may see fixtures that are not only eco-friendly, but also simple, sleek, and without unnecessary details. This love for sustainability also extends to the decor. From potted plants in the veranda to the big narra dining table, Filipino homes have managed to maintain their connection with nature all these years.
Easy design tips you can do
Add house plants
A Filipino home is very close to nature. A splash of greenery allows your indoor space to thrive and can instantly make your house appear more vibrant. Consider looking for low-maintenance plants that do not need that much sunlight such as pothos, snake plants, or ZZ plants.
Brighten things up
Did you know that a space with insufficient lights can have a negative effect on energy, mood, and productivity? That is why a proper, low-cost lighting can make a world of difference in your house. With a simple ceiling light, you can add warmth to the space and create a cozy atmosphere. You may also use wall lighting to highlight artworks, mirrors, and even shelves.
Think textures
It can feel flat and bland if your house does not have different textures. Playing around with textures doesn’t have to involve big pieces. You can add a bit of contrast simply by layering different textures for different furniture, like placing a fluffy throw pillow on a rattan chair or putting a ceramic vase next to matte and muted ornaments.
Refurbish old furniture
Filipinos are all about practicality. If you don’t have the budget to buy new furniture, you can simply restore existing ones. Refurbishing may take a bit of time, but it can save you lots of money. Unless it’s damaged beyond repair, you can reupholster your sofa’s cover and then just add new cushions. You can also upgrade old furniture by giving it a new paint job.
Keep it clean
Many Filipino homeowners today prefer modern interiors accentuated with natural, environment-friendly materials. Consider highlighting clean lines and simple furniture pieces to keep your interiors modest as possible.
Use neutral tones
Steering away from the bold and eclectic hues of yesteryear, designers and homeowners alike prefer to use neutral colors for the home’s overall palette. Think shades such as beige, white, and gray. Occasionally, pops of color are used as accents. Aside from nurturing a calm and serene environment, this creates more “uncluttered” areas around the house which is an advantage for those with limited space. You may also consider natural colors that reflect the lush landscaped found throughout the country. Ultimately, your goal should be to find the right balance of warm, earthy tones with cool, contemporary aesthetics.
Celebrate local craftsmanship
Filipino artisans are some of the best in the world –– and they deserve a space in your home. Their wealth of skills, which includes detailed wood carving, intricate weaving, and the artful shaping of metal, are highlighted as designers are incorporating traditional techniques in modern, sustainable architecture. A simple way you can blend the traditional and the contemporary is choosing a modern light fixture that is accentuated by a traditional rattan weaving pattern. By celebrating local craftsmanship, the modern filipino house preserves the country’s rich heritage for future generations. It’s more than just a style choice –– it’s about making a statement about Filipino values.
When you bring locally crafted pieces inside your home, you’re also playing a key role in supporting the local economy, the artisans, and their communities. As you contribute to the sustainability of local craftsmanship, you get a unique, authentic, and high quality handcrafted item in return.
The modern filipino house shows how we, as a people, also changed over the years. The blending of tradition with contemporary architecture influences resulted to familiar yet diverse range of homes that reflect our changing needs and ever-evolving cultural heritage. From the timeless beauty of the bahay kubo to the modern elegance contemporary and sustainable designs, Filipino architecture continues to captivate and inspire because of its one-of-a-kind charm and artistic expression.
Remember, creating a contemporary Filipino home goes beyond combining traditional and modern materials. What makes it truly Filipino is how we can create a warm and welcoming environment where families and friends can come together.
Discover what makes the contemporary Filipino home unique by visiting us at phinmaproperties.com. Whether you’re building your dream home or redesigning an existing one, we can guide you as you try to find the perfect balance of tradition and modern. You can also contact us if you wish to look at the available properties in our portfolio.
