The homebuilding sector in the Philippines has long been plagued by problems such as extended lead times, inefficiencies in design processes, overreliance on manual labor, use of unsustainable raw materials, and a disconnect between e-commerce and the construction sector. With Homeqube, Jose “JP” Calma seeks to tackle these issues head-on.
“Homeqube is designed to solve persistent problems within the industry,” Calma said, highlighting the platform’s goal to make homebuilding more accessible and efficient. Calma hails from a prominent Filipino family of architects and contractors. As the former CEO of the Multi-Development and Construction Corporation (MDCC), he has an extensive background in system architecture and interior construction. Homeqube, his latest project, is a blockchain and AI-powered platform aiming to address longstanding issues in the Philippine homebuilding industry.
A User-Centric Approach to Home Design
Homeqube introduces user-centric controls, or “knobs,” which are based on a deconstruction philosophy. This means that various combinations of designs can be created from basic system parts, akin to building blocks. This translates to a more interactive and customizable design process. According to Calma, users can explore cost, lifestyle, and mobility options simply by adjusting these controls.
Bridging Technology and Homebuilding
One of the standout features of Homeqube is its integration of blockchain technology. The platform uses a digital currency, the QUBE token. While it’s not explicitly clear how this will be integrated into the homebuilding process, Homeqube promises a gamified experience to incentivize user engagement.
Users can earn these QUBE tokens when their designs are recognized by the Homeqube system. They can also participate in design challenges and, eventually, sell their designs as non-fungible tokens (NFTs)—unique digital assets that represent ownership of a specific item or piece of content.
The First NFT Marketplace for Homebuilding?
Homeqube is also set to feature a Solana-based launchpad and NFT marketplace for various homebuilding needs, from designs and algorithms to furniture and augmented reality (AR) overlays. Notably, it claims to be the first NFT marketplace to accept a wide array of 3D printing files, including parametric data and generative art. Parametric data refers to information that allows for designs to be automatically adjusted based on certain parameters, and generative art refers to art created using algorithms.
“We’re paving the way for seamless fiat ramping,” Calma added, suggesting a simplified process for converting digital tokens into traditional currency, though the details of this process are not yet clear.
A Gathering Place for Professionals
According to Calma, Homeqube aspires to be more than a tool for aspiring homeowners—it aims to serve as a hub for industry professionals, from manufacturers and engineers to interior designers and plumbers, offering them a space to enrich their practices or start their businesses.