From preserving historical treasures to designing for the future, Agila Group’s mission extends beyond crafting mere structures; it’s about cultivating sanctuaries for the soul.

Architect Paolo Salvador Grijalvo’s fascination with design began at a young age. Growing up, he’d perceive patterns, rhythm and movement in everything, inspired by his potential to create.

In 2013, he founded the Agila Group, a dynamic team of forward-thinkers and leaders working toward the collective vision of shaping the future of

Philippine design. Armed with only a 4-sqm space, the firm operated as a one-person powerhouse for the first two years. Grijalvo has since witnessed his vision evolve from being a minuscule workspace to a bustling hub of passionate architects, builders and entrepreneurs. “The growth of our people comes hand in hand with how we deliver projects,” the 35-year-old visionary beams with pride. “To date, wehave delivered over 100 projects in ten years and were able to produce 50 licensed Filipino architects from our Agila Master Builders Programme.”

Since 2013, Agila has been conserving the historic Gota de Leche building, a 117-year-old architectural gem declared an Important Cultural Treasure by the National Museum. Grijalvo started as an all-around repair contractor and has been a board trustee since 2018, where they work to provide continuous care, nutrition and health programmes for indigent malnourished children and mothers in Manila and selected regions. In 2021, Agila was likewise selected as one of the main contractors in restoring the San Sebastian Cathedral in Manila.

“We are also doing a museum and programme facility upgrade for Gota de Leche, transformative learning spaces for Diliman Preparatory School and commercial upgrades for Manila Polo Club,” adds Grijalvo. “In every product or service we do, I want to create spaces that uplift people and evoke a sense of hope.”

His advocacy through architecture is anchored on the belief that every Filipino deserves a unique home—“an abode for the soul and body”, as he puts it. This philosophy is reflected in every project Agila undertakes, including the Nest.

One of Agila’s current endeavours is an independent modular unit that expertly blends strength, sustainability and the unmistakable charm of Filipino heritage homes. Crafted from robust materials and operational in just 90 days, each customisable model or Nest can be built in myriad locations with minimal environmental impact. It can serve as a family home, a vacation rental, a beach house, a mountain cabin or even a personal retreat in one’s backyard.

When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave in ten years, Grijalvo envisions himself as a transformative leader. With the courage to pursue the potential of transforming 1,000,000 square metres of project impact, he is determined to take Agila to new heights, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s architectural landscape.