The Start: Living in a Bahay Kubo

Our journey began in a small native house, called a bahay kubo. It’s a cozy but cramped space, shared by two adults, a child, and a dog. While it has served us well, we knew it was time to take the next step toward building a more comfortable and functional home for our family.

The First Phase: Container Van Transformation

We have started constructing the first part of our house—the back section—using two container vans. These sturdy structures will serve as the foundation of our livable space while we continue the larger construction project. The goal is to create a comfortable and practical area where we can stay during the building process.

Our initial focus has been on preparing the container vans. This includes setting up essential spaces such as the kitchen, lavatory, and showers. Every detail is planned with care to ensure functionality and comfort, making this temporary solution feel like a home.

A Private Haven in the Mountains of Santander

Nestled in the lush mountains of Santander, De Klomp is a personal retreat where our dreams of a comfortable home are coming to life. It’s a space that reflects our values, combining practicality, cultural pride, and the warmth of family life. While De Klomp is not open to the public, it remains a deeply personal project where we celebrate the fusion of Dutch and Filipino heritage.

As we continue this journey, we are excited to see De Klomp evolve from a dream into reality. From the transformation of container vans into a livable space to the larger vision of our future home, this project represents resilience, hard work, and the joy of building something truly our own.