I love the bahay kubo. The architectural concept is so simple yet nothing exudes so much beauty.
Other than that, the bahay kubo is the perfect example of what a sustainable shelter should be. Its materials are locally sourced and exude no harmful chemicals. The construction itself places little to no stress on the surrounding environment.
That is why I find it ironic that people gravitate towards more expensive, concrete homes. It's downright unnatural but I guess you can't fault these people for choosing the "safer" and more popular option.
I can presume here that the decision to "forget" the bahay kubo (or bahay-na-bato) concept is market-driven. Banks don't finance houses made of light materials because these are fire and earthquake hazards to begin with. Because of this, consumers shy away from the cheaper alternative and go for the concrete and metal houses. Consequently, developers go for the path of least market resistance, by constructing houses which are both appealing to the consumer and to the banks which will inevitably be approached for financing.
Maybe, one day, the bahay kubo will make sense again. Until then, it's going to be another fast disappearing Filipino icon.
Other than that, the bahay kubo is the perfect example of what a sustainable shelter should be. Its materials are locally sourced and exude no harmful chemicals. The construction itself places little to no stress on the surrounding environment.
That is why I find it ironic that people gravitate towards more expensive, concrete homes. It's downright unnatural but I guess you can't fault these people for choosing the "safer" and more popular option.
I can presume here that the decision to "forget" the bahay kubo (or bahay-na-bato) concept is market-driven. Banks don't finance houses made of light materials because these are fire and earthquake hazards to begin with. Because of this, consumers shy away from the cheaper alternative and go for the concrete and metal houses. Consequently, developers go for the path of least market resistance, by constructing houses which are both appealing to the consumer and to the banks which will inevitably be approached for financing.
Maybe, one day, the bahay kubo will make sense again. Until then, it's going to be another fast disappearing Filipino icon.
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