kohlerstraumann punctuates lush phillipines cliffside with modern bungalow

stone and softness combine in west boracay

Swiss architecture studio Kohlerstraumann has completed a renovation project on the cliffs of West Boracay in Malay, Western Visayas, Philippines. The work involved the conversion an old janitor’s apartment into a sophisticated two-story boutique bungalow, embodying a minimalist design philosophy.

The entire structure is clad in locally sourced stone, creating a material dialogue between the bungalow and its natural context. The use of stone connects the building to its environment while giving it a quality of solidity and timelessness. The upper floor of the bungalow is designed to appear as if it is floating above the cliff, a feature made possible by hidden structural supports. This design choice enhances the modern aesthetic of the building while maintaining a strong connection to the landscape.

images © Kohlerstraumann

kohlerstraumann curates Private Bedrooms with Ocean Views

Inside the West Boracay bungalow, the architects at Kohlerstraumann continue the stone motif, incorporating custom stone furniture directly into the space. This creates a unified and immersive atmosphere, where the boundaries between architecture and interior design are blurred. To balance the raw texture of the stone, the interior features a pastel color palette, adding warmth and elegance to the living spaces. Large, strategically placed windows are designed to frame select ocean views, turning each one into a living artwork that deepens the connection to the landscape.

The ground floor of the bungalow features an open-plan living area where stone surfaces and furniture create a unified, serene atmosphere. The space is designed to be a sanctuary of calm, with the stone elements providing a grounding presence that contrasts with the openness of the layout. The middle floor houses private bedrooms, each carefully designed to frame specific views of the ocean. The placement of the windows ensures that each bedroom offers a quiet and intimate setting, where residents can feel connected to the natural beauty of nature outside.

Kohlerstraumann converts a janitor’s apartment into a minimalist two-story bungalow on the West Boracay cliffs

the secluded, treetop retreat

The West Boracay Bungalow is capped by a private rooftop, on which Kohlerstraumann designs a secluded garden. This treetop courtyard is designed in harmony with the natural environment, with minimal landscaping to maintain the focus on the cliffside connection. Native plants are subtly incorporated to enhance the natural beauty without overwhelming it, making the space an isolated retreat.

Kohlerstraumann’s two-story bungalow on West Boracay Cliff is a modern oasis to punctuate the lush coastal landscape of the Philippines. The careful integration of locally sourced materials, strategic design choices, and thoughtful attention to detail result in a space that offers both luxury and a deep connection to wild nature.

the bungalow is clad in locally sourced stone, creating a connection with the natural environment