A Decade of Hard Work: Barbie Imperial Breaks Ground on Her Dream Bicol Retreat

Building a personal sanctuary is a major milestone for any professional, and for actress Barbie Imperial, her latest project represents a decade of hard work coming to life in her home province of Albay. On January 20, 2026, the groundbreaking ceremony was held for Solmera, a vacation residence designed to harmonize with the rugged beauty of the Bicol region.

Named after the concept of “Pure Sun” (from Sol and Mera), the project is a collaboration with Vesta Architects, led by architect Pat Marbella. The design moves away from traditional residential boxes, opting instead for a structure that reflects the organic landscape surrounding it.

Organic Forms and Fluid Design

The architectural language of Solmera is defined by soft silhouettes and curved rooflines. These organic forms are not just aesthetic choices; they are inspired by the silhouettes of the surrounding mountains, allowing the structure to sit more naturally within the environment.

Key engineering and design features include:

Discreet Facade: The home uses a subtle exterior design to maintain privacy, intended to surprise visitors with grand, expansive interiors that unfold upon entry.

Structural Fluidity: A sculptural spiral staircase serves as a primary vertical anchor, blending structural function with visual drama.

Natural Ventilation: The inclusion of air-hole walls—often used in tropical design—promotes passive cooling and introduces tactile textures to the residence.

Seamless Transitions: Floor-to-ceiling glass panels replace solid walls in social areas, allowing the interior spaces to breathe and inviting constant natural light.

Engineering the “Mimic Pool”

At the heart of the property is a beach-inspired mimic pool, a central feature that defines the home’s resort-like atmosphere. Unlike standard rectangular pools, this “mimic” design uses gentle curves that appear to melt into the surrounding deck.

This layout requires careful site planning to blur the boundaries between indoor comfort and outdoor leisure. By incorporating sunken lounge areas and low-profile seating directly adjacent to the water feature, the design encourages “slow living” and rest.

Strategic Orientation: Framing Mayon

Perhaps the most critical engineering aspect of Solmera is its orientation. The residence is strategically positioned to frame views of the Mayon Volcano and Legazpi City. Every expansive window and open layout is designed to turn the iconic peak into a permanent, natural backdrop, integrating the province’s most famous landmark into the daily living experience.

For the modern builder, Solmera serves as an example of how “intentional architecture” can transform a residential lot into a private retreat that respects both nature and the owner’s heritage.