Words and Images Pulseo Design Studio
Editing Gabrielle de la Cruz
Nestled at the heart of a family farm in Belison, Antique, the Yuhum Rise Outdoor Kitchen serves as a welcoming area and central hub for everyday dining and larger gatherings. The client reached out to Pulseo Design Studio for a kitchen that would accommodate specific requests, particularly the needs of his elderly parents who love to cook. The design needed to blend effortlessly with the landscape, creating a kitchen that embraces fresh air and organic views. Natural textures and earth-toned materials define the space, complemented by accordion doors that expand or enclose the area based on the users’ needs.
The doors are made of steel tubes, covered with a polycarbonate sheet frosted for privacy when closed, and equipped with a metal screen at the top for proper ventilation.
Terracotta bricks by local artisans from ALIMA Studio and decorative blocks by local architect Boljan Aniñon are highlighted in the design. The architects opted for an open, horizontal layout for an easier flow of movement in the kitchen, from food preparations to coffee brewing, and shared meals. The layout also promotes an atmosphere of collaboration and engagement among users, facilitating an experience that is both practical and enjoyable.
On the right side of the kitchen is an open grill requested by the client for “sugba,” a method for grilling fish with only salt and no oil or other preservatives. Inside, an island counter stretches across the cooking area, with the architects incorporating a dining space to allow simultaneous activities to happen. Exterior-wise, the warm yet cool blend of materials used for the kitchen helps the space feel both grounded and elevated.
The terracotta bricks are stacked as a decorative and functional wall in the sink area, providing proper ventilation and a view of the farm.
Incorporating sustainability into its design, the outdoor kitchen’s materials are also eco-friendly, ensuring that building and construction will leave a minimal environmental footprint. The concrete and sustainable bricks were carefully selected for their durability and low environmental impact. Each block, texture, and material reflects the dedication and craftsmanship behind the project, highlighting the attention to detail and passion that Pulseo Design Studio has put into creating a meaningful, communal, and sustainable space.
The strength and durability of concrete assist the structure in surviving changing weather conditions, making this outdoor kitchen a lasting addition to the farm. The project stands as a testament to conscious architecture, where design, sustainability, and practicality come together in perfect harmony. This kitchen is merely an outdoor space; it’s a celebration of both the local culture and the environment, offering a taste of nature that encourages people to create and preserve memories. •
Project Information
Location: Barangay Concepcion, Belison, Antique, Philippines
Gross floor area: 6.47m x 4.79m, (30.99 square meters)
Design phase: Two weeks
Project completion: November 2024
Client: Mr. James Ballarta & Family
Project Team
Principal architect: Ar. Paul Luces
Junior architect: Phoebe De los Santos
Junior architect: Rodney Justiniano
Junior architect: Kryzzly Dyn Quemado
