Paraiso House

In the lush province of Laguna in the Philippines, Paraiso House is a striking vacation home conceived by architecture firm Trilogy, designed to harmonize seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Crafted from concrete and glass, the residence is intended to be nearly invisible from the street, enveloped by a rich tapestry of vines, trees, and foliage.

A shaded pathway, flanked by tree-lined steps, leads to a surprisingly expansive lawn. The house is encircled by floor-to-ceiling glazing, and a moat-cum-rainwater collection system further blurs the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a fluid connection with the environment. Inside, the home is adorned with an array of artworks and objects that reflect its role as an artist’s retreat. A lithograph by contemporary Indian artist Arun Bose and a terracotta sculpture are elegantly displayed on a 19th-century hardwood table, while one of Paraiso’s own pieces graces the wall.

The living room features a dramatic double-height ceiling that allows for the flourishing of tall trees, while armchairs designed by Filipino designer Milo Naval are paired with a traditional hagabi bench repurposed as a table. A hammered tin sculpture, another of Paraiso’s works, contrasts with the organic beauty of the surrounding landscape. The 16-seat dining table, set against a massive concrete wall, is softened by a ten-meter-high vertical garden, merging the raw industrial aesthetic with lush greenery. The concrete kitchen island and flooring continue the theme of clean lines, enhancing the home’s modern design. The dining area flows effortlessly into the undercover kitchen, fostering an indoor-outdoor ambiance.

Designed to evoke the sensation of waking up to nature, the layout emphasizes unobstructed views and minimal furnishings. The mezzanine bedroom, intended for Paraiso’s son, features just the essentials, framed by Paraiso’s metal sculptures. A tall metal sculpture anchors the hallway, set against the backdrop of ample foliage. The master bedroom is characterized by full-height glass sliding doors that open directly onto a pocket bamboo grove with ferns and a garden. The integration of the bedroom’s plants and greenery with the metal and wood sculptures creates the illusion of being nestled within the grove. The tropical grounds serve as a vibrant space for socializing and creative endeavors, with outdoor loungers positioned under a cone reed hut designed by Milo Naval.

Paraiso House, as featured in Design Anthology Asia, Issue 31, is a living gallery that seamlessly integrates art and architecture within a natural paradise.