It sounds exclusive and intimidating, but don’t be fooled by the complex. Domicillo Design Hotel was created for anyone who desires peace, tranquility, and a rare moment of zen. Although its prestigious exteriors look like it would be hard to relax in, Domicillo is actually a hub for admiring all things beautiful. And the proprietors at this establishment believe that when you can admire the beautiful freely and truly, good times are sure to follow.

Designed mainly by Budji Layug, and known as the passion project of Rene Alcala of Manila Mirrors fame, Domicillo Design Hotel opened just four years ago, on December 2014. If you’re wondering why they only have eight rooms available for guests, that’s because it was really intended to be an intimate get-away for people who need to re-calibrate their centers to the best of man-made design, surrounded by the natural and unbeatable peace of Mother Nature. You can see this philosophy in motion, when you glance upon the industrial, concrete architecture, accessorized by wooden accents, greenery, and of course, the very backdrop of Taal Lake itself.

Domicillo Design Hotel provides one of the best views of Taal, and arguably the best in Cavite. Because of its minimalist structure and industrial feel, it contrasts wonderfully with the serene backdrop of Taal Volcano, especially during dawn and dusk. Everything here gives a sense of purpose and renewal, and invokes a feeling of utter contentment, silence, and introspection. That may be the reason why the rooms were made to be less than the usual standard—so you get to focus on the rest of your natural environment.

There are three types of rooms you can book when staying at Domicillo Design Hotel:

Please take note that there are only 3 Deluxe Suites, 2 Superior Suites, and one Premier Suite. The Deluxe room was designed by Tes Pasola. This room features a sleek and cutting-edge design with a distinctly Pinoy feel, thanks to the shell-encrusted furniture and locally-produced mirror frames and cabinets. The bed frame is also interestingly, made from recycled newspaper. The best part about this room is that it has a tropical garden right outside the door! This unit is 27 square meters wide. The Superior room is unapologetically modern and striking. Designed by Milo Naval, this is the room you want to book if you’re in the mood to sit and stare at Taal Volcano from your bedroom balcony. The veranda soaks you in all of Taal’s grandeur, while the bold designs in your interior space make for some great relaxation, and even the occasional photo.

This unit is 38.7 square meters wide. The last room is the Premier Suite, and there’s only one room like it in Domicillo Design Hotel. Designed by Budji Layug himself, this is the complete package in terms of aesthetics, comfort, and all-around luxury. It is the perfect marriage between cool and crisp concrete, with warm wood tones and earthen features. The best part about this room, is that it provides the most unobstructed view of Taal volcanoand its surroundings. You also get both a veranda and a mini-garden. This unit is 58.50 square meters wide.

The rooms come with the usual amenities:

However, the Premier Suite will come with a complimentary bottle of wine, and a complimentary 1-hour whole body massage for two.

One of the more interesting things to note when staying at Domicillo, is that you are allowed to inquire about the pieces you find in your room and around the lobby. If you fancy the stool, desk, chair, or mirror frame anywhere on the property, ask about it from the concierge and you can buy it from Manila Mirrors. You’d be supporting proudly local artists! And while absolutely anyone can enjoy at Domicillo, you may want to consider renting rooms here if you and a companion feel like spending quality time with little to no distractions. The intimate space means they don’t have a swimming pool or a fitness center, so you’re really here for the company, the environment, and the self-discovery that comes along with peace and quiet. Honeymooning couples, mother-daughter duos, and people with anniversaries are the usual patrons of Domicillo. Book Domicillo Design Hotel here

Given their property’s size and philosophy, they only feature a couple of extra services. You can either explore the nearby restaurants and bulalo-specialty houses around Tagaytay Road, or you can order out. Domicillo has partnered up with a couple of restaurants nearby, so you may be able to avail of a discount. These include Café Adriatico, Antonio’s, and Bizu.

Starbucks is soon to open near their establishment as well, so you don’t need to travel to that other famous Starbucks location overlooking Taal anymore! For spa services, their affiliate business, QiWellness Secret Teahouse and Bathhouse is just a couple of blocks away. They offer authentic East Asian massages and serve only the finest teas to patrons. Nearby, there is also the Sky Ranch, Oliveras Plaza (10-15 minutes away), and Breakfast at Antonio’s.

Address: Km 58, Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, Maharlika East, Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway, Tagaytay, Cavite

Domicillo Design Hotel is easily accessible via private car. Make your way via the SLEX, then take the Sta. Rosa exit. Drive straight, all the way up to the Tagaytay Public Market, then turn right—you’ll reach Ninoy Rotunda. Go round the rotunda, and then take the Emilio Aguinaldo Highway going to Nasugbu. Upon reaching Petron station (fork road), take the left road and Domicillo Design Hotel is on your immediate left.

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