We’ve come a long way from the traditional bahay kubo and bahay na bato that our ancestors used to live in. Somewhere along the way though, our architectural heritage became muddled with the more cost-efficient cookie cutter homes we now see crop up in suburban villages nationwide. However, a more modern take on our traditional housing is on the rise. Architects and interior designers alike are starting to incorporate more Filipino touches into their designs. Here are some key elements of creating a modern filipino home.
Solihiya
“Solihiya” is a rattan weaving technique. Remember your lolo or lola’s beloved rocking chair in your ancestral home? It’s probably solihiya. This weaving technique allows air to pass through the design, making it ideal for hot and humid tropical climates like we have here in the Philippines. With this feature, it’s a popular choice not just for creating seats but for furniture as well. It allows airflow inside cabinets and other similar furniture, making it less likely for mold and mildew to grow inside.
For a more modern twist to the traditional solihiya weave, incorporate it as an accent piece in your furniture. Mix and match it with trendy colors like this sage green hue. Create the perfect blend of past and present for your modern Filipino home.
Modern Cement Finish
The bahay na bato is sort of an “upgraded” version of the former bahay kubo. It’s made of sturdier materials such as brick and stone, usually for the lower floors of the house. This provides a more sturdy and stable foundation for Filipino houses to withstand storms, earthquakes, and flooding. If you’ve ever had the chance to visit the historic Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, you’ve probably seen one of these!
The modern cement finish can be achieved using Konstrukt Lunar Series. Just by using standard Konstrukt Construction Chemical products like its skimcoats and renders, you can create several stunning cement faux finish for any kind of space. For your modern Filipino home, pair this look with a lot of wooden elements to add warmth to the space.
Woodworks
What’s a Filipino home without touches of nature here and there? Whether it’s from the past or the present, we’ve all managed to maintain our connection with nature in our living spaces. Potted plants litter our second floor verandas (and keep our moms and dads busy). Bamboo plants line the home’s perimeter for some privacy from nosy neighbors. Look at your dining space. You’re probably still having dinners around your family’s heirloom narra dining table. We’ve had ours for more than five decades already!
No family heirloom furniture to spare? Scour the antique and vintage shops scattered around the metro for some old-world finds. I’m sure you’ll find something to fall in love with!
Creating a Modern Filipino Home
Creating a modern Filipino home is more than just incorporating traditional and indigenous materials into your living space. What makes a home truly Filipino is fostering a warm and hospitable environment for both your friends and family.
Any questions regarding paint, colors, or design inspirations? Send us an email at ask@myboysen.com. We’re always happy to help. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for short and sweet DIY inspirations sent straight to your email every week.
