Just moments away from the bustling area of Bonifacio Global City is 171, a multi-level villa set on a 302-square-meter lot. M.CAL ArchitectureArchitectureThe art and science of designing and constructing buildings, structures, and spaces that are functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. It encompasses the planning, design, materials, and techniques used to create Design Studio, headed by Ar. Monique C. Albert-Lopez, built the residence as a minimalist modern sanctuary surrounded by landscaped gardens. This creative direction was drawn from the homeowners’ brief to create a […]
A Serene Mountain Retreat by Fitnesscape Creative Studio
In the misty mountains of Baguio City, Paul Peña of Fitnesscape Creative Studio Inc. (FCS) has crafted a home that embodies rest, renewal, and a profound connection to nature. The M Residence, completed in June 2024, was born from the vision of a local family longing for a retreat that would bring the serenity of the mountains into their daily lives. Peña, known for his emphasis on restful spaces that prioritize comfort, took on the challenge of executing this vision. With a design that harmonizes natural beauty, sustainable materials, and thoughtful details, Peña’s work reflects both the serene landscape of Baguio and a forward-thinking approach to homebuilding.
Building a Dream
For Peña, the journey began with understanding his clients’ desire: a mountain sanctuary where they could rest and recharge.. “Our clients wanted a place where they could experience the tranquility of the mountains,” Peña shares. This aspiration aligns seamlessly with the philosophy of FCS, which focuses on creating restful spaces that feel welcoming and restorative.
The spacious outdoor deck provides a tranquil space to unwind, with seamless transitions between indoor living areas and the surrounding natural beauty.
The design brief specified the importance of embracing Baguio’s natural beauty and serene atmosphere while crafting a residence that celebrates relaxation. To this end, Peña highlighted openness, natural light, and views that would allow the residents to stay connected to the breathtaking vistas of Benguet province.
Bringing the Vision to Life
Peña’s attention to detail was instrumental in transforming the clients’ dream into reality. Each room was strategically oriented to make the most of natural light and ventilation, ensuring comfort while minimizing energy needs. With an open layout, Peña provided clear sightlines across spaces, making the most of the property’s expansive mountain views.
Peña’s design expertly navigates the challenges posed by Baguio’s distinct climate and landscape. Considering the sun’s path, neighbors, and surrounding views, he prioritized orienting the residence to optimize warmth and light in cooler months while avoiding excessive sun exposure. The home’s elevated position further allows residents to enjoy panoramic views, bringing the lush environment of Baguio’s mountains into the comfort of their everyday lives.
Emerging Trends: Wellness and Nature Connection
As Peña looks to the future, he anticipates a shift toward wellness-centered design, with spaces dedicated to rest, comfort, and self-care. His Baguio project embodies this approach, offering a tranquil, nature-focused environment that enhances the residents’ well-being. This balance of technology, sustainability, and harmony with nature exemplifies the design philosophy of FCS and sets a new standard for home design that nurtures both people and the environment.
As architectureArchitectureThe art and science of designing and constructing buildings, structures, and spaces that are functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. It encompasses the planning, design, materials, and techniques used to create continues to evolve, projects like this serve as an inspiring example of how homes can be designed not just for functionality but for quality of life, offering spaces that enrich our well-being while honoring the natural world.
Get a closer look at this beautiful mountain sanctuary by ordering your copy of BluPrint Volume 2, available via the sarisari.shopping website, Shopee, and Lazada. E-magazines are available for download via Readly, Press Reader, and Magzter.
Photographed by Ed Simon.
Read more: Mabini180: A New Community Hub Where Form Meets Purpose
Frequently Asked Questions
The M Residence was designed as a mountain sanctuary focused on the concepts of rest, renewal, and a profound connection to nature. Lead designer Paul Peña focused on harmonizing the home with the serene landscape of Benguet to create a restorative environment for the family.
To manage the cool mountain climate, the residence is strategically oriented to optimize natural warmth and light during cooler months. The design utilizes an open layout with specific sightlines that maximize natural ventilation and energy efficiency while protecting the interior from excessive sun exposure.
The project prioritizes wellness by incorporating expansive outdoor decks, sculptural lighting for soft ambiance, and an open layout that fosters a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. By balancing sustainable materials with high-quality comfort, the home serves as a dedicated space for self-care and environmental harmony.
The home is built on an elevated position to provide panoramic vistas of the lush Baguio mountains from multiple vantage points. Large windows and strategically placed outdoor living areas ensure that the breathtaking scenery of the province is integrated into the daily experience of the residents.
The project was executed by Paul Peña of Fitnesscape Creative Studio Inc. (FCS), a firm known for prioritizing comfort and quality of life in their designs. Completed in June 2024, the residence exemplifies their philosophy of creating spaces that nurture both the occupants and the natural world.
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