Manila Series 111 : "Bahay Kubo"

One huge difference when growing up in the province to the city is the lifestyle. It can't be helped though that what we get accustomed to, we look for similar things wherever we go, because let's face it, they give us comfort. Bahay kubo now can be seen in some places, original or imitated. Nothing beats it when seeing an actual one in unusual places in the city. Can blame them for wanting something that reminds them of those innocent days, besides, under the heat of the sun, it's a great cool place in the backyard, and that haven't changed through time.

In the provinces, modern times have change the housing structures, replacing the old, cheap and functional materials for economical reasons. Concrete shelters obviously are sturdier and stronger against the elements where it's safer and more sustaining during monsoons and typhoons.

Throughout the Philippines, bahay kubos are still being built but for different reasons. Until recently...

A modified bahay kubo covered with bougainvillea with a porch.

Building a bahay kubo

With the abundant bamboo and coconut trees in the country, for sure our ancestors did not have any problems in accessing materials for a house. Back then, building a bahay kubo probably was like assembling a tent.

Given the choice, bahay kubos as homes are built now according to individuals' preferences. Usually made of bamboo and coconut tree parts, a simple bahay kubo is just enough to give shelter. The roof is made of either coconut leaves or cogon grass. Enclosing it are inter-woven coconut leaves, and the floor is made of bamboo strips. As it is elevated a few feet off the ground, the steps are also made of bamboo.

The roof I can likened to those thatched-roof houses in England.

Found these in Treasure Mountain campsite in Tanay, Rizal, Philippines.

Back to basics

We are in a changing time where the lifestyle of humanity is going back to how our ancestors have lived, not necessarily like the Neanderthals BUT back to basics. Coupled that with comfort, if can be afforded.

Why not?

There is a movement that is noticeably getting stronger. Just like people leaving the city for the mountains, tiny living, organic food, these things are telling us one thing. Going back to basics. The Philippines is in it and growing.

A lot of holiday resorts in the Philippines have these modified bahay kubos to offer whose specifications are under par to top resorts worldwide. For places that are easily accessible and cheap, they have this.

Care to join me? Whose bringing a bottle of wine?

A modified bahay kubo by the beach.

Disclaimer: top photo by @flabbergast-art, all other photos are mine, taken with my Samsung Galaxy S7.