Jim Caumeron Design has completed a weekend vacation home located just a three-hour drive from Manila, Philippines. Situated within a gated community of Mediterranean-style residences, the project features a striking large white volume that stands out from its surroundings. Two horizontal cuts in the structure create a seamless connection to the outdoors while ensuring ample natural ventilation.
The residence occupies a 300-square-meter plot, with the building itself covering only one-third of the area. The remaining space is designed as a garden seamlessly connected to the interior, creating a beautiful framed view. The horizontal cut on the white structure serves both as a window and a ventilation feature, especially useful during hot summer days. Due to the plot’s 1.5-meter subsidence, the living and dining areas on the first floor are set at a lower level, extending naturally into the garden where white pebbles pave the floor and reflect indoor light.
Climate considerations played a pivotal role in the design of this panoramic residence. The west-facing wall is fully enclosed to shield the living room from direct sunlight. This wall also houses the service rooms, allowing the living room to feature a tall ceiling that facilitates the rise and escape of hot air. Additionally, the recessed ceiling helps protect the interior from morning sun exposure as temperatures rise.
On the second floor, a combination of horizontal and diagonal cuts surrounds the structure, allowing natural light to flood in and encouraging airflow throughout the space. Numerous design elements, including small windows on the walls exposed to the strongest sunlight and sloping ceilings, guide air circulation to reduce room temperature. The staircase leads up to the master bedroom, with the landing cleverly converted into a children’s play area. Remarkably, even on the upper floor, the design ensures effective air circulation.
△ Plan view
△ Sectional drawing & floor plan
△ Section diagram
Lighting and Ventilation Analysis
Project Information:
Project Name: Panoramic Residence
Architectural Design: Jim Caumeron Design
Location: Tagaytay, Philippines
Total Area: 200 sqm
Year Completed: 2019
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