Popular Architectural House Designs in the Philippines

Dec 27, 2023 • By Janrry Pastrana


In the Philippines, a diverse range of architectural styles can be observed, influenced by the country's rich history, culture, and varying climates.

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BUNGALOW: A typical bungalow house in the Philippines is a one-story residence characterized by its simple and functional design. The compact and efficient layout often features a spacious front porch, providing a welcoming entry and a shaded outdoor space. The exterior is typically adorned with a combination of stucco or painted concrete walls, while a gabled roof, often covered with corrugated metal or clay tiles, adds to the traditional charm. 

Large windows with wooden or aluminum frames allow ample natural light to fill the interior. The interior layout is designed for convenience, with common spaces like the living room, dining area, and kitchen seamlessly connected. Bungalow houses in the Philippines often cater to the tropical climate, emphasizing cross-ventilation and an open floor plan to enhance airflow and create a comfortable living environment.

TWO-STOREY: A two-storey house in the Philippines typically boasts a more expansive and versatile living space compared to its single-story counterparts. The ground floor often houses communal areas such as the living room, dining area, and kitchen, creating an open and interconnected layout. The design may incorporate large windows for natural light and ventilation. The upper floor generally accommodates private spaces like bedrooms, providing a sense of separation and privacy. 


The exterior facade may feature a combination of materials, including painted concrete, stucco, or decorative finishes. A pitched roof, commonly covered with galvanized iron or clay tiles, crowns the structure. Two-story houses in the Philippines often prioritize a balance between aesthetics and functionality, catering to the needs of modern Filipino families while adapting to the tropical climate.

MEDITTERANEAN: A Mediterranean-style house in the Philippines exudes a timeless and elegant charm, blending architectural elements inspired by Southern European regions. The exterior often showcases stucco walls in warm earthy tones, complemented by terracotta roof tiles that impart a distinctive Mediterranean allure. Arched doorways and windows add a touch of sophistication, while wrought iron details, such as railings and light fixtures, contribute to the aesthetic appeal. 


Courtyards and expansive balconies provide outdoor living spaces, and lush landscaping featuring mature plants like olive and citrus trees enhances the Mediterranean ambiance. Inside, the house may boast cool tile flooring, exposed wooden beams, and rustic furniture, creating a harmonious blend of comfort and Mediterranean flair. This style is a testament to the fusion of Old World charm and tropical living, making it a unique and enchanting architectural choice in the Philippines.

MODERN: A modern house in the Philippines epitomizes sleek and contemporary design, emphasizing clean lines, open spaces, and a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor elements. The exterior often features a combination of concrete, glass, and steel, creating a minimalist and sophisticated facade. Large windows and sliding glass doors maximize natural light, offering a connection to the surrounding landscape. 


Flat or low-pitched roofs and geometric shapes contribute to the modern aesthetic. The interior showcases an open floor plan, with a focus on functionality and minimalist decor. High-quality materials such as polished concrete or hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, and minimalist furnishings define the interior spaces. Modern houses in the Philippines prioritize energy efficiency and often incorporate sustainable design elements, making them both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally conscious.

COLONIAL: A colonial-style house in the Philippines reflects the architectural influence of the Spanish and American colonial periods. The exterior typically features a combination of stucco or wooden walls, often painted in soft, pastel hues. A prominent feature is the use of large windows with wooden shutters, allowing for ample ventilation and natural light. The roof is often steeply pitched, covered with clay tiles, and may exhibit gables or dormers. 


Classic elements like ornate wrought iron details, balconies, and verandas contribute to the colonial charm. Inside, high ceilings, wooden floors, and decorative moldings further evoke a sense of historical elegance. Colonial houses in the Philippines often balance a sense of nostalgia with practical adaptations to the tropical climate, creating a timeless and graceful architectural style.

RANCH: A ranch-style house in the Philippines embodies a single-story, open layout design that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape. Typically characterized by a long, low profile, the exterior features a combination of materials such as wood, brick, or stucco. Large windows and sliding glass doors emphasize a connection to outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to flood the interior. 


A simple, unadorned facade and a hipped or gabled roof contribute to the ranch aesthetic. The interior often emphasizes a spacious living area with a focus on casual and comfortable living, avoiding unnecessary ornamentation. Ranch houses in the Philippines may incorporate covered patios or verandas, providing additional areas for outdoor relaxation in a style that harmonizes simplicity with functionality.

INDIGENOUS: An indigenous house in the Philippines, often referred to as a "bahay kubo," is a traditional dwelling that reflects the country's rich cultural heritage. Characterized by a simple and practical design, the house is typically raised on stilts to protect it from flooding and enhance ventilation. The frame is made from bamboo, with a thatched roof woven from nipa palm leaves. 

The open layout allows for natural airflow, providing a cool and comfortable living space in the tropical climate. The bahay kubo is a testament to the resourcefulness of Filipino architecture, utilizing local materials and traditional construction techniques. It remains an iconic symbol of community living and a connection to the natural environment.


Remember that there are countless options when it comes to house design in the Philippines—these are only few examples. In the end, the decision you make will be based on your personal tastes, lifestyle choices, family size, and budget.
 

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