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Region
6: Western Visayas ••• Negros Occidental ••
Silay City
Balay
Negrense
Built 1897,
the Balay Negrense is the restored residence of Victor F. Gaston,
son of Yves Leopold Germaine Gaston. Left unused by the family and
after becoming among other things, a dance studio, the house deteriorated
until a group from Silay decided to restore the house. By the time
restoration began, parts of the house had fallen and its furnishings
dispersed.
Heritage
Features:
The house
is a later and more airy version of the bahay na bato. The
first floor, raised from the damp earth is pierced by windows that
make the interior brighter than older houses. The first floor is
no longer just a storage space but large foyer which leads to rooms
and offices. The lower floor connects to the upper story through
a grand staircase. The upper floor has bedrooms flanking the living
room. To the rear is the dining hall and kitchen. The upper story
is made of wood with generous ventanillas that allow air
to circulate throughout the house. The house has been furnished
with furniture and appurtenances donated by various persons. Arranged
as a lifestyle museum, Balay Negrense is also available for social
functions, like wedding receptions.
Address: Cinco
de Noviembre St.
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