Photos showing the transformation of our Baguio Hillside House project.
We tried to design with traditional mountain province elements combined with American colonial influence which you can never really take out of Baguio culture. Critical space planning was required in order to divide the rooms for big family-style sleepovers in what was originally narrow and cramped spaces. The biggest change was the loft we added to the high ceiling where 6 people (kids, mostly) could sleep and play comfortably. A family favorite is also the conversion of a neglected back room to a cozy staff house.
We closed the bedrooms’ exposed ceilings for better privacy, sound absorption, and maintenance. A window seat was added along with a pullout bed and vanity area.
It was an unforgettable and special experience for the whole Grupo Santamaria Team to work on this house. Given only a few months to renovate, we were setting up all the way to Dec 23, 2022 because we wanted the owners to enjoy their vacation home in time for Christmas. With their entire family in tow, they even extended a few weeks after the New Year’s so they could enjoy their new Baguio home longer. The feeling of fulfillment in seeing our clients’ eyes tear up with surprise, delight, and gratitude for the work we have delivered is something we won’t forget for a very long time.
The Baguio Hillside House is also available to rent, you may follow @baguiohillsidehouse on Instagram and contact them for details.
