The Philippines are home to all kinds of beautiful features, whether it’s the white beaches or the jaw-dropping volcanoes. But in Cebu City, a residential project and architectural marvel stays hidden from view, positioned at the edge of a cliff along the eastern coast of the island country.
The aptly named Cliff House Villas were designed and created by the Filipino studio Zubu Design Associates, a group that “champions an architectural ethos of innovation and respect for the natural environment,” according to the architects. The project includes a main house, pool house, guest house and supporting spaces.
Alongside the architect’s design is a thorough use of materials from APE Grupo, a tile contractor based in Spain. The smooth, clean texture of their ceramics cultivates a harmonious final result that leaves the viewer speechless. Every aspect of the project oozes with intricate attention to detail.
“Respect for the natural environment and the tropical climate has been crucial in the design process of Cliff House Villas,” says architect Buck Richold Sia. “The houses are designed to optimize ventilation and natural light, adopting a simple approach to facilitate the flow of breezes and sunlight throughout the day.”
The original space, which spans 10,000 square meters (about two and a half acres!), is the perfect spot for panoramic views of the bay and surrounding areas, which led much of the design’s conception. This can be seen at its closest through the positioning of the pool on the property.
The serene pool, complete with ceramic detailing around the perimeter, sits embedded in the natural environment. The side nearest the cliff’s drop-off has an invisible edge and makes the pool disappear into the surrounding area, a beloved and familiar detail.
The deep blue tile inside the swimming pool is a near-perfect match to the shade of the waters surrounding the island at any given time. Alongside the clean, sleek details of the buildings on the property, the Cliff House Villas nearly blend into the lush greenery that surrounds them.
Whether you’re there for the pool, the tranquility or the views, this is one project that is sure to leave its visitors speechless.
This article first appeared in the November 2024 issue of AQUA Magazine — the top resource for retailers, builders and service pros in the pool and spa industry. Subscriptions to the print magazine are free to all industry professionals. Click here to subscribe.
