A Modern Take on the Bahay Kubo: A Tiny House Inspired by the Humble Kubo

I set out to design a small home that honors the classic Bahay Kubo while embracing modern ideas. The result is a two-story house with a total area of 49 square meters that respects our cultural heritage and meets today’s need for functionality and style.

Inspired by Tradition, Updated for Today

Rooted in the traditional Bahay Kubo, this house keeps its essential features—especially the raised platform. Built on stilts, the home naturally cools and connects with its surroundings. While it pays tribute to the past, every detail has been thoughtfully updated for modern living.

Efficient Use of Space

Despite its compact footprint of only 27 square meters (5 meters by 5.45 meters), the design maximizes every inch:

• Ground Floor: An open space houses the kitchen, dining area, and bathroom, creating a flexible living area.
• Second Floor: Two cozy, well-ventilated bedrooms feature jalousie windows that allow fresh air to flow through and provide lovely views.

Blending Natural and Modern Materials

The design incorporates both traditional and contemporary elements:

• Natural Features:
  • The amakan ceiling, crafted from woven material, helps cool the home by allowing air to flow freely.
  • Bamboo split cladding wraps the walls, adding texture and a clear link to traditional Filipino design.
• Modern Touches:
  • Operable bamboo slat screen doors with a chevron pattern can be closed in the evening to secure the home, blending style and practicality.
  • Smooth concrete floors and robust concrete walls deliver a sleek, industrial look that is also very low maintenance.

Every material was chosen not just for its beauty but also for its performance in the tropical climate, ensuring the house stays strong and comfortable over the years.

A Home That Tells a Story

This modern Bahay Kubo is more than just a building—it’s a living experience that bridges the gap between heritage and contemporary life. Whether you’re enjoying the bright, open living area or relaxing in one of the breezy bedrooms, every corner of this home invites you to appreciate a blend of tradition and modern comfort.

Thank you for joining me on this journey of rediscovering and reinterpreting our cultural roots. I hope this project inspires you to see how the beauty of the past can harmonize with the innovations of today.