We would like to thank the following sponsors who helped make the book possible: Matimco, Sadolin, LBC, Davies Paints, Excell Contractors and Developers, Inc., FGU Builders, HM Trading, Julant Termite, Kenneth and Mock Designs, Inc, Multi Line Systems, Perfect Dimension Corp., Philippine Wine Merchants, Tejas, Stage Craft International, American Standard, Rehau Germany and Luzon Rattan Industries.

In the public eye, Francisco "Bobby" Mañosa, is known as the proponent of Filipino architecture who adapted the eco-friendly elements of the bahay-kubo (nipa hut) into commercial, residential and religious building projects. He also set a trend in innovating and developing local materials such as coconut so they could be used in furniture pieces and surface treatments, which has consequently led to a robust export industry.

I recently visited a new residential development that re-imagines how we should live our urban lives without throwing nature or comfort out our doors. Lantana Lane, by the Mañosa Properties Inc., is a townhouse project in historic New Manila, Quezon City. It has only 14 units but each is imbued with a rare blend of high-quality architectural design, expansive interiors, and integrated landscape and green-design features.

If you want to go green, go Filipino. This seems to be the not-so-subliminal message within “Beyond the Bahay Kubo: 16 Climate-Conscious Tropical Homes,” a new book featuring top-shelf residences designed in the contemporary Filipino style by the father-and-son design team of Bobby and Angelo Mañosa.