Sisid Anilao: An Experience Rooted in Deep Connection
Being an archipelago country, the Philippines boasts a total coastline of up to 36,289 kilometers in length. In addition, the coastline’s irregularity brings more drama to it. It’s composed of many seashores, bays, gulfs, inlets, lagoons, and a lot more. Similarly, the country is home to some of the best diving spots in the world. One best example would be Anilao in Mabini, Batangas. Considered by diving enthusiasts as one of the world’s best macro photography destinations. Anilao offers the best muck diving or blackwater diving and the underwater biodiversity is full of small-scale sea life and critters, perfect for macro photography. Moreover, helping boost local tourism and attending to the needs of the guests, is the addition of the remarkable boutique resort, the Sisid Anilao.
About Sisid Anilao
Certainly, commanding attention on a well-known beach strip is Sisid Anilao. A stunning property that creates its interesting narrative through its curvilinear elegance. The boutique resort spans over a 2,500 sqm lot area with 39 meters of absolute beach frontage. Further, the complex features a cantilevered porte-cochere, lobby, café & bar, indoor and al fresco dining, an infinity pool, and ten (10) suites. One of these suites is a sprawling Tropical Suite with a 180-degree view of the sea.
In Filipino, the term “sisid” means “to dive”. Named with the word “sisid”, that is to say, the resort wants to give homage to the beauty of marine life and the richness of the culture’s maritime heritage. The luxury design resort showcases the works of some of the country’s best designers. This includes the sofa by Vito Selma, barstool by Kenneth Cobonque, and the OMO’s grand Pili lamps. The resort does not only boast well-known Filipino hospitality and service but as well as Filipino’s warm take on tropical architecture and stylish accommodations.
Resort Architecture
Sisid Anilao opened its doors to travelers and guests in 2021. Designed and built by RU Design+Build, the architecture focuses on functionality at the core of the design. Having an arrangement of complimenting volumes creates a balance between seclusion and connection to the resort context. Supplying a collective sense of openness, Sisid Anilao reflects calmness and the beauty of the location.
RU Design+Build’s principal architect, Ryan Untivero, explored an architectural agenda staging a modernist approach in the tropical setting. With the use of concrete and glass infused with layers of local materials and “solihiya” woven patterns, pieced together the brand of Sisid Anilao. Linking the interiors, food, plating, and placemaking, the heart of Sisid Anilao runs deep. This spotlights the richness of Filipino artistry and culture.
All the communal spaces show open layout plans that allow guests to move and breathe freely. Meanwhile, elements like the full-height glass panels and patterned metal lattice works permit unobstructed views of the beachfront. Also, this creates seamless transition spaces between the indoors and the outdoors. Aside from it, these elements strategically positioned in the development, as a result, help create the playful dance of light and shadows throughout the day. The indoor garden under the staircase also adds freshness and life to the interiors.
Photo Credits: RU Design+Build©
