The Bahay Kubo is a traditional Filipino home that symbolises the nation's resourcefulness; get to know more about it here
The Bahay Kubo is a house built using local materials such as wood, bamboo and nipa grass. The architectural principles of the Bahay Kubo stemmed from the basic needs of the Filipinos. Its walls are fabricated with bamboo or kawayan, banded together by tree strings. These materials are light and are very useful in places with tropical weather. The house is usually raised two metres from the ground to avoid flooded grounds and animals like snakes. Through the years, these quaint homes have evolved and inspired many of the country's modern architectural structures as well.
In this article, Tatler explores the astonishing origins of our very own Bahay Kubo.
1. Bahay Kubo As A Catalyst For Filipino Bayanihan
Pre-colonial bahay kubos were never cemented on the ground. Because of this, many Filipinos are able to move from one place to another depending on their choice or needs.
Bayanihan (pronounced as buy-uh-nee-han), is a Filipino tradition that refers to the spirit of communal unity, work, and cooperation of the community to achieve a specific goal. Its concept can be traced back to the Filipino tradition where the townsfolk (especially men) lend a hand to carry the entire house of a family who wants to move into a new area.
Read more: 17th Venice Architecture Biennale: Philippine Pavilion Opens Structures Of Mutual Support Exhibition