STONE AND SPACE

Inspired by the great modernist movement, the architect Edwin Uy designs a sustainable gem in the heart of Camiguin

-  Nina M.Santamaria

Between the mountains and the sea of Camiguin Island is a gem of a modern residence designed by Edwin Uy. The house is an homage to the natural terrain and materials found in the lush tropical setting of this island province. Growing up in Cagayan de Oro, the architect is no stranger to the beauty of the Philippine countryside. It comes naturally to him to identify and enhance what a piece of land offers in terms of shape, texture and materials to be used.

House No17, as Uy calls it, is located on Bulkang Daan, the national highway leading to a volcano. Residents in the area are mostly farmers and livelihood comprises mostly fishing and mountain farming. With just a 1,000 sqm lot and a house footprint of only 200 sqm, Uy designed the structure to feel as light and airy as possible, letting wind and daylight freely pass through its open windows and terraces all throughout the day.

“In Camiguin, zoning is not as strict, and so we tried to find a spot without too many trees in the middle of a rolling and rugged terrain. The best position for the house in terms of topography is at the highest elevation. The topography was everything; it dictated the orientation of the house. Considering wind factor, we

had to direct the house to face the Southeast side to avoid the Western side. Hence the West area is where we put the garage, making sure there are plenty of trees so the heat is not felt so much,” the architect shares.