In the Philippines, being situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, natural disasters like typhoons are common occurrences. These typhoons can bring strong winds and heavy rains, posing significant challenges to homeowners. However, with thoughtful design and innovative solutions, it's possible to create small, affordable houses that can withstand the fury of typhoons. Let's explore some typhoon-proof house designs suitable for the Philippines:
Elevated structures: Building houses on stilts or raised platforms can help protect them from flooding during typhoons. This design also allows for better airflow, which can help mitigate the impact of strong winds.
Strong, durable materials: Using materials such as reinforced concrete, metal roofing, and impact-resistant glass can help make houses more resilient to typhoon damage. These materials are better able to withstand strong winds and flying debris.
Sloped roofs: A steeply sloped roof can help prevent water from pooling and causing leaks. Additionally, using metal roofing with secure fastenings can help prevent the roof from being lifted off during a typhoon.
Aerodynamic design: Designing houses with aerodynamics in mind can help reduce the impact of strong winds. Rounded edges and streamlined shapes can help deflect wind, reducing the chances of structural damage.
Secure foundations: Ensuring that houses have strong, secure foundations is crucial for withstanding the forces of a typhoon. Properly anchored foundations can help prevent houses from being lifted or shifted during a storm.
By incorporating these design principles into small, affordable houses, it's possible to create homes that are more resilient to typhoons and other natural disasters. These typhoon-proof house designs can help protect homeowners and their families, ensuring their safety and security during extreme weather events.
1. Shipping Container Homes
Architect Llyan Oliver Austria gained fame during the pandemic by sharing architecture-related content on YouTube. His P500,000 typhoon-proof house design caught attention for its practicality and resilience. Here are the key features:
Exterior Features
Shipping Container Shell: Oliver used a shipping container as the outer structure of the house. Shipping containers are designed to withstand water exposure during sea freight transport. Elevating the container three meters above the ground helps prevent flooding issues.
Rollers: The house is equipped with rollers on the sides. If floodwaters exceed the three-meter level, the house can float and roll upwards, avoiding damage. The patio space also doubles as a protective shield during typhoons.
Interior Features
Minimalist Toilet and Bathroom: The interior follows a simple, monochromatic design. Minimalist aesthetics ensure functionality without compromising style.
Contemporary Kitchen: The kitchen combines wood and marble materials in a minimalist contemporary design. A pull-out drawer-table provides extra space, and small windows prevent water ingress.
Multifunction Area: This space serves as both a dining room and a sleeping area. Tables and chairs can be stored vertically, maximizing space. Murphy beds follow the same principle.
2. Design Integration with Surroundings
Architect Marvin Mariñas emphasizes that a house should not be a stand-alone structure but rather a part of its surroundings. Here are some considerations for typhoon-resistant designs:
Site Analysis: Understand the local climate, wind patterns, and flood risks. Position the house to minimize exposure to strong winds and flooding.
Materials Selection: Choose durable, weather-resistant materials. Reinforce roofs with tekscrews to prevent them from being blown away during typhoons.
Elevated Foundations: Raise the house above flood-prone areas to avoid water damage.
Conclusion
Building small, affordable, and typhoon-proof houses in the Philippines requires a blend of creativity, practicality, and resilience. By incorporating these design principles, homeowners can create safe havens that withstand nature’s fury while staying within budget.
Remember, a well-designed house isn’t just a shelter; it’s a sanctuary that protects and embraces its occupants even during the most challenging times.
Sources
This Pinoy Architect designed a P500K typhoon-proof house. https://pinoybuilders.ph/p500k-typhoon-proof-house-design/
How to Build a Typhoon-Resistant House, According to Design Professionals. https://www.realliving.com.ph/home-improvement/building-renovating/how-to-build-a-typhoon-resistant-house-a00010-20220214
7 houses you can build on a very small budget. https://www.homify.ph/ideabooks/2683785/7-houses-you-can-build-on-a-very-small-budget