Archie G. Carrasco, Chairman and CEO of AGC Power Holdings Corp. (AGC PHC), has been named to The BoF 500 Class of 2026 under the Media category, joining The Business of Fashion’s global community of individuals shaping the fashion industry. Carrasco is among 100 new members from 33 countries and 48 nationalities selected for the […]
Bauhinia Residence: How to Craft Tranquility in an Urban Oasis
Ar. Anthony Nazareno and Ar. Christian Guerrero, formerly of Nazareno + Guerrero Design Consultancy Inc. (NGDC), crafted a remarkable sanctuary in the midst of a bustling city. Nestled within a gated community along a busy street, the Bauhinia Residence stands encased in a striking shell of black lava stone. Here, time seems to slow down—a haven amidst the frantic pace of urban life.
Crafting Grandeur and Comfort
The owner envisioned the house as their future retirement retreat. NGDC was tasked with designing a residence that was low maintenance without sacrificing grandeur or comfort. Situated on a corner lot, the design possibilities were abundant. Nazareno refined his options to create the perfect home for his client and friend. Collaboration between designer and client was essential in shaping the 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 createGo to Architecture Glossary that promoted a slower pace of living.
During the design phase, Ar. Nazareno drew inspiration from his travels to Iceland, where he encountered lava stone prevalent in the landscape. Intrigued by its durability and aesthetics, he proposed its use for the residence, a suggestion readily accepted by the owner who had also visited Iceland. This decision shaped the project significantly, with smooth lava stone and Parklex—a natural wood veneer cladding—chosen for their ease of maintenance and timeless appeal.
To maximize the lot and define the home’s focal point, Nazareno adopted an inverted L layout, creating a spacious garden facing the road intersection. This expansive outdoor space, a priority for the homeowner, is complemented by main communal areas oriented towards it. Landscaping by Plontur enclose the perimeter, enhancing the sense of privacy and tranquility envisioned for the residence.
A Marriage of Materials
The architect took it a step further by mixing and matching various textures, clean lines, and geometric motifs, creating a visually dynamic and cohesive environment. This careful interplay of elements is evident throughout the interiors. In the living room, plush fabrics invite comfort and relaxation, while the minimalist aesthetics of the kitchen and dining room provide a sleek, modern contrast.
The design allows for a variety of living areas that seamlessly flow into one another, each space featuring understated yet luxurious architectural features. The layout fosters a sense of continuity and connection, perfect for multigenerational living.
Among the standout features is the chandelier in the stairwell. This adds both warmth and drama as you ascend to the second floor. Its placement and design make it a focal point that enhances the vertical transition between floors.
This residence is a masterful blend of texture and materiality, incorporating stone, wood, glass, and concrete in a harmonious marriage. Each material is thoughtfully chosen and meticulously applied, contributing to a rich sensory experience. The stone offers a grounding, earthy feel, while the wood brings warmth and natural beauty. Additionally, the glass provides lightness and transparency. Touches of concrete add an industrial edge that balances the overall design.
In essence, this multigenerational residence exemplifies how thoughtful design and material choice can create a sophisticated and welcoming home. It’s one that caters to the diverse needs and tastes of its occupants.
The Bauhinia Residence epitomizes thoughtful design and deliberate decision-making, resulting in a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics. Discover more about this project in BluPrint Vol. 3 2022: Breathing Space. Download your copy here.
Read more: Calm, Creative, and Free: Architectural Portraiture by Auris Design
Photography by Ed Simon.
Culture in design does not always announce itself through a recognizable motif, material, or symbol. It can also be embedded in the relationships designers build, the knowledge they listen to, the materials they choose, and the decisions they make in response to communities and their environments. This distinction emerged throughout the 2026 International Design Conference […]
The DBP Building as a Landmark of the International Style At the corner of Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue and Makati Avenue stands a landmark of the Makati Central Business District. It is one of the last still standing that were built in the first wave of construction in district fifty years ago. The Development Bank […]
“Buildings only become 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 createGo to Architecture Glossary when they are shared,” said William Ti Jr., founder of the Anthology Festival and WTA Architecture and Design Studio, […]
A Filipino Interpretation of Modernist Architecture Unlike the rest of Makati today, the northern end of Paseo de Roxas in Makati is anchored by a low complex rather than a tall skyscraper. This is the elegant Asian Institute of Management, designed by architect Gabriel Formoso and completed in 1971. In my opinion, the building is […]
“Thailand has claimed urban creativity and livability. Singapore has institutional design leadership. Indonesia is emerging as a design hub. Vietnam is moving into design innovation. And the Philippines? Its position is not weak. It is simply unclaimed.” For IDr. Cecil Ravelas, National President of the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID), the challenge is not […]
Read the issues.
Collect the volumes.
Recommended Video
Tap to Unmute
Unmute
0:00
0:00