Philippine Architecture Overview

Architecture that's unique to a specific place, designed by and for the local people, based on traditions and resources, and often influenced by the environment.

Indigenous people of the Sulu and Celebes Seas, known as "sea gypsies" for their seafaring lifestyle on houseboats.

One-room, light, windowless houses built by the Badjao, using local materials like palm leaves and bamboo, with thatched roofs; often built above coastal areas.

Air forced into a smaller area increases pressure, creating a draft.

Using design elements to naturally reduce the interior temperature without mechanical cooling.

Design strategies in hot and humid climates that reduce heat through shade, materials that don't absorb heat, and elements that facilitate air circulation.

Strong winds and high humidity are typical of coastal locales in the tropics, which influence building design.

Badjao boats used as houses.