Cover The living room on the ground floor of the Cove House by Brioarc Design Studio, located in Nasugbu, Batangas
The living room on the ground floor of the Cove House by Brioarc Design Studio, located in Nasugbu, Batangas
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Explore how Brioarc Design Studio blended mid-century and contemporary design at this seaside sanctuary in Nasugbu, Batangas
For a home to be truly sustainable, it should not compete with the landscape–it should stand in harmony with it. Such is the case for the Cove House, designed by the Brioarc design studio to work in tandem with the unique contours of the site. Upon stepping onto the property for the first time, the architects were captivated by its unobstructed proximity to the sea. “The sloping terrain initially seemed like a challenge, but it quickly revealed itself to be one of the lot’s advantages: it offered magnificent views from multiple levels,” enthused architect Pierre Briones.
Another integral part of the architecture was the trees surrounding the Batangas home, which are framed in the many windows that illuminate the space. The result is an escape from the bustling city, punctuated with exquisite furniture pieces from local designers and mid-century icons.
These features were best complemented by “the use of curvilinear volumes,” said Briones. “The composition is both visually striking and contextually sensitive.” The exterior shows compelling glimpses of the upstairs decks, while a blend of stone and wood softens the home’s grand scale.
More from Tatler: Home tour: a verdant family home balancing heritage and sustainability in Laguna, Philippines
Above The exterior of the Cove House by Brioarc Design Studio, located in Nasugbu, Batangas
The exterior of the Cove House by Brioarc Design Studio, located in Nasugbu, Batangas
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The Batangas house is organised across three levels. With the more functional spaces on the lowest level, the expansive ground level features an open layout, perfect for both lounging around and entertaining guests. One of the most eye-catching pieces in the living room is the whimsical couch clad in white bouclé fabric, which evokes images of a cloudy summer’s day. Surrounding it are rattan chairs and baskets, which add a grounding tropical touch to the space.
The room between entertaining and dining is blurred, as the living room then leads into the dining room and kitchen area. The arches leading to the dining room and the kitchen counterspace add continuity to the Batangas home’s design story. A particularly memorable piece in the dining room is the solid marble dining table by Teresa Marble, along with the Ava dining chairs by Roche Bobois. Beyond the dining table is a metal sculpture by Pete Jimenez, a rustic feature that adds greater visual interest to the space.
The living room on the ground floor of the Cove House by Brioarc Design Studio, located in Nasugbu, Batangas
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At the heart of the ground floor is the swimming pool, clad in a soothing shade of blue marble. Here, one can see a glimpse of the homeowners’ love for mid-century design through the nearby Spun Chair by Magis, designed by Thomas Heatherwick. Nestled by the end of the pool, it stands as both a dynamic sculpture and a rocking chair.
Above The stairway leading up to the bedrooms of the Cove House by Brioarc Design Studio, located in Nasugbu, Batangas
The stairway leading up to the bedrooms of the Cove House by Brioarc Design Studio, located in Nasugbu, Batangas
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Above The primary bedroom in the Cove House by Brioarc Design Studio, located in Nasugbu, Batangas
Above The outdoor deck beyond the primary bedroom of the Cove House by Brioarc Design Studio, located in Nasugbu, Batangas
The primary bedroom in the Cove House by Brioarc Design Studio, located in Nasugbu, Batangas
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Behind the dining room is the curved staircase leading upwards, its organic form ensuring an uninterrupted flow with the space. On the highest floor, the master bedroom features a roof deck with expansive windows that allow the vibrant sunset to shine through the trees. Returning to the space, one is filled with a sense of ease and tranquillity. Whether lounging on the bed or on the nearby Eames chair and ottoman, there are infinite iterations of comfort to be found. The other bedrooms similarly reflect a muted palette, ensuring that guests have a restful night amid the sounds of nature.
In case you missed it: Home tour: Belle Époque apartment renovation transforms Paris pied-à-terre with Eiffel Tower views
Above The exterior of the Cove House by Brioarc Design Studio, located in Nasugbu, Batangas
The exterior of the Cove House by Brioarc Design Studio, located in Nasugbu, Batangas
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Altogether, the Batangas home is a reflection of design at its most meaningful: it responds proactively to the shifting realities of the Philippines’ tropical climate while elevating a modern, sleek approach. “The most important aspect of the design is enriching the lives of the occupants while responding to the site’s climate and topography.” Through the use of panoramic windows, ample natural ventilation, and effortless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, this Punta Fuego home will retain its blend of sustainability and charm in the years to come.
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Credits
Photography: Greg Mayo
About
Celine first read Charlotte’s Web at the age of five–and she hasn’t stopped turning pages since. Her favourite authors are Mona Awad and Nat Cassidy. Besides writing for Tatler, she listens to BTS and spends time with her family.
Work
Celine took up secondary education with a major in English, graduating from De La Salle University in 2023. She advocates for female empowerment through creative expression by writing for Tatler Homes.
For story leads or inquiries, you may reach out to her via celine.dabao@tatlerasia.com.
