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How and Why: Building a Sustainable, Modern House in the Philippines

 The Philippines has a total population of 109,035,343 as of May 2020, based on the latest data from Philippine Statistics Authority.  A continuously increasing trend is also seen in both residential and non-residential constructions.

Are you one of those planning on building a house in the Philippines? Such can be a very exciting yet daunting task, especially if you are aiming for sustainability and modernity. With the right mindset, resources, and approach, building a sustainable, modern house in the Philippines is possible. In this article, we will discuss the advantages of building a sustainable house and provide tips on how to build one.  

Advantages of Building a Sustainable House 

  • Energy efficient
  • Lower carbon footprint
  • More comfortable to live in
  • Higher resale value

Architects in the Philippines agree that building a sustainable house in the Philippines has several advantages. First, sustainable homes are energy-efficient, which means they consume less energy and, therefore, have lower utility bills. Second, sustainable homes have a lower carbon footprint than traditional homes, which means they are better for the environment. Third, sustainable homes are more comfortable to live in because they are designed to provide natural lighting, proper ventilation, and thermal insulation. Lastly, sustainable homes have higher resale values because they are in demand and considered an investment in the future.

Tips on How to Build a Sustainable and Modern House in the Philippines 

Choose a sustainable site. 

Before building your sustainable and modern house, you must choose a site that is suitable for sustainable living. You must consider the site's location, orientation, and access to natural resources such as sunlight and water. Choosing a site that is close to public transportation, schools, and commercial establishments can also reduce your carbon footprint. 

Use sustainable building materials. 

To build a sustainable house, you must use materials that are environmentally friendly, energy-efficient, and durable. You can use locally sourced materials such as bamboo, adobe, and coconut lumber, which are renewable and have low embodied energy. You can also use recycled materials such as reclaimed wood, glass, and metal. 

Incorporate renewable energy sources. 

One of the essential elements of a sustainable house is the use of renewable energy sources such as solar panels, wind turbines, and hydroelectric generators. These energy sources can provide electricity, heating, and cooling, reducing your reliance on fossil fuels. 

Optimize natural lighting and ventilation. 

A sustainable house must be designed to optimize natural lighting and ventilation. You can use skylights, windows, and glass walls to let natural light into your home. You can also use passive cooling techniques such as shading, cross ventilation, and insulation to reduce the need for air conditioning. 

Invest in water conservation. 

Water is a precious resource, especially in the Philippines, where water scarcity is a prevalent issue. You can invest in water conservation by installing low-flow faucets, toilets, and showerheads, harvesting rainwater, and using greywater for non-potable purposes such as flushing toilets and watering plants. 

Design for longevity. 

A sustainable house must be designed to last for a long time. You can achieve this by investing in high-quality materials, designing for adaptability, and maintaining your house regularly. You can also ask your architect about house plans in the Philippines that can be flexible and accommodate changes in your lifestyle and family size.

Building a sustainable and modern house in the Philippines is a worthwhile investment in the future. By following these tips and incorporating sustainable elements into your home design, you can create a comfortable, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly living space that benefits both you and the environment. Remember to choose a sustainable site, use sustainable building materials, incorporate renewable energy sources, optimize natural lighting and ventilation, invest in water conservation, and design for longevity. Building a sustainable house is not only a responsible choice but also a wise one.


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