The home of the Filipino Family
Robinson, as everyone knows, is right here. Quite a few groups build treehouses,
including the Gaddang, the Kalinga,
and the Manobo and Mandaya
of Mindanao (say it ten times). The floor of one's house may be forty or even
sixty feet above the ground. Aesthetics aside, the only reason for living
so high up is protection from human enemies. Naturally, the ladder
is withdrawn at night.
Everything
below the roof is an afterthought.
The Filipino house must have a strong, pyramidial
thatched roof that can withstand and deflect the wind and torrential rains.
As you can see, the actual walls of this Ifugao
house, quite representative of the islands as a whole, are much inset from the
eves. The floor is about at the level of the boy's head; the house is built
on posts to keep snakes, rats, and other vermin from joining the family. Chicken
cages and perishable items hang beneath the bamboo floor.
Livin'
at the marina. The Tausug (and others)
of the Sulu Islands are heavily invested in an acquatic lifestyle. Having the
boat parked out front makes everything so much easier!
The Bontok
are among the very few who do not elevate their houses, which is why their
sky is such an odd color. Shown here is a Farey, or rich person's house.
Spanish
rendition of a Visayan tree house, 1668.
Architecture
