2014 National Architectural Thesis Competition - Entry No.12

BOARD 1 – CONCEPT AND SITE CONTEXT

The phenomenon of expressing cultural identity in architecture is apparent in the different and many parts of the world. It is however a fact that the beginning of the 21^st century is marked by the increasing globalization and affirmation of a singular identity that is in constant conflict with the traditional local identities.Such cultural phenomena is very much apparent in the Philippine context, specifically in the architecture of identifying definitive gateway airport terminals. Airport gateway terminals, should as part of its primary functions, act as concrete cultural identifier of the country/city it serves.

This thesis aims to define and investigate how cultural identity is being expressed in the contemporary globalized architecture of the airport terminals in the Philippines, using the proposed New Clark International Airport Terminal 1 as the benchmark of design. The whole experience of travelling from ground up to the air is an exemplary of cultural identification only to be felt within the passageways of an airport terminal. Indeed, people travel to experience culture.

DESIGN SOLUTIONS

Architectural Theory of Contrast: Activated Architecture x Sedentary Architecture

“The Philippine Fiesta”

            The overall concept of the Philippines having a multifaceted, 7107 cultures is applied through one of the country’s most distinct and unique cultural aspect that visitors from all over the world flock to witness. The incredible energy brought about by the Philippine Colorful Fiesta. The applied polychromatic smart louvers attached at the grand departure lobby’s canopy simulates the country’s festive, warm and colorful culture of banderitas and paradas: reducing any sadness brought about by the departure of our loved ones.

“Philippine Geological Formation Morphology”

            Blending in with the natural landscape that the Philippines is known for: The conceptual form evolution of the terminal’s exterior morphology simulates the undulating curvature expressed by the Philippines’ numerous mountain range landscapes known all over the world. Expressed into a simplified, yet elegant curved form design, the terminal aims to have as minimal visual environmental impact as possible in order to preserve the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

BOARD 2 – SPATIAL PROGRAMMING

As the project is set to be affecting an international level of affairs and interrelationships, the main goals of the project need not only be local and national in its own sense, but be more aware of its globally competitive settings. Furthermore, the proposed project of a new international airport terminal is backed up by its characteristic of focusing on the investigation of cultural representation in architectural form and function as its primary formwork basis of architectural self – identification leading into the planning and design of an airport terminal building.As such, the researcher has formulated the following project objectives that will guide the overall project’s main goals and purposive course:

1.    To reinvigorate and revolutionize the frayed image of the Philippine airport system into an improved, efficient and modernized aviation destination, securing the country a significant spot in the global environment of competitive commercial aviation.

2.    To develop a new airport terminal that will primarily serve part of the Greater Capital Region and Northern Luzon, performing its role as the beacon of better linkages and accessible connections with the region’s immediate local and global proximities.

3.    To sustain the country’s ever-growing airport capacity demands in pursuance of decongesting the current and projected saturation problems of the existing airport serving the Greater Capital Region in a long-term projection.

4.    To provide a terminal building that caters to the unique Filipino cultural traditions of ‘Balikbayans’ and ‘Despedidas’.

5.    To define the new airport terminal as the symbolic and representational gateway to the rich and colorful culture of the Philippines.

As the project is to be developed as a competitive commercial aviation and logistics hub, the New Clark International Airport Terminal will be the Philippines’ premiere gateway to the world and will act as the main aviation hub for all international airlines and destinations currently supported by the country.

BOARD 3 – ARCHITECTURAL INNOVATIONS

After space and structure, materiality is the essence of architecture. Surfaces play a large role in articulating materiality, with equal contributions of light, color and texture giving buildings their unique character. Louis Kahn poetically described these intertwined relationships: "All material in nature, the mountains and the streams and the air and we, are made of Light which has been spent, and this crumpled mass called material casts a shadow, and the shadow belongs to Light.”

Applied as architecture, that material is essential to the result. "Colors and textures cannot be seen independently of design intent. Once the objectives for a building project are established, colors and textures become an integral means of achieving design ends."

Polychromatic is a term used  to describe light that exhibits more than one color, which also means that it contains radiation of more than one wavelength, or simply put, having several colors.

            These Photochromic SPD-Smart Glass panels are applied mainly into the skylight and roof canopies of the major spaces within the airport terminal not only to cool the large semi-open space by reducing heat and glare, but to give a simulation of the conceptual idea of having a conducive and colourful ‘festive’ atmosphere for arriving and departing Filipinos and foreigners.

BOARD 4 –TROPICALLY RESPONSIVE TERMINAL

            The terminal design aims to blend itself with the existing Philippine natural landscape famous around the world as part of its airport marketing initiatives. With much consideration to the Philippines as a tropical country, the airport terminal seeks to lessen active energy usage by utilizing a pavilion-type design in its primary spatial aspects to promote passive cooling and maximum natural ventilation. As mentioned herewith, the terminal’s main pavilion is where the specific Filipino activity of Balikabayan greeting and Despedida well-wishing occurs, as such, the focus and primary design aspects, both culturally, visually, spatially and tropically are applied in such area.

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2014 National Architectural Thesis Competition - Entry No.11

Introduction

Our cities are built with these two materials, Concrete and steel. These are the two materials that are widely used by the construction industry. These are materials that are strong and would last for decades. But these are also the materials with very high energy and greenhouse gas emission in their process. About 8% of the carbon emission comes from these materials. And until now we haven’t found any alternative to it.

It won`t last, It will not survive typhoons; it is a poor man’s timber. Bamboo construction is perceived to be ephemeral/ temporary. But little did they know that there are countless possibilities on what you can do with this material. The misconceptions mentioned above needs to be revolutionized in order to make bamboo based construction acceptable. There is a need to educate people that in building houses, simple technologies are not necessarily inferior to modern ones. It must be pointed out that indigenous materials like bamboo, though lightweight, can make a house permanent if properly joined and pretreated, and yet have the advantage of being relatively easier to modify or replace than heavier and more expensive materials.

The current government setup for bamboo research and development of forest products are divided into three divisions. The production side is under the DENR and the utilization side is under DOST. There is a gap between the production and utilization process. There are no continuous collaborations between these agencies which yield to the sluggish pace of development of forest-based product industry, such as the bamboo industry.

The rationalization to set-up an integrated Research and Development Center for bamboo is imperative in the purview of the current set-up. This could be the main reason why the bamboo-based industry cannot develop full blast due to the disjointed efforts of the government to push for its total development. It is on this premise that this proposal is sought to design the establishment of an integrated R&D Center for Bamboo. This Center is envisioned to efficiently cater complete supply chain of bamboo development - from production, utilization and trade/marketing and policy on Research and Development. At the same time it aims to collate the segregated functions for the research and development of bamboo-based technologies into a central facility for the research and development of the said forest product in the fields of construction, agriculture, handicrafts and furniture here in the Philippines. This project would serve as a catalyst for the development of the bamboo industry and the standardization of the bamboo-based products and technologies in the Philippines. 

Boards Explanation

The design concept for the project is “Ceaseless Evolution: An architectural translation of the rhizome philosophy”. Rhizome is seed for the development or growth of a bamboo plant; it serves as the catalyst for growth. In totality, the project aims to achieve the relation and connectivity of things in an amorphous manner, meaning in an unconventional and unpredictable pattern. The main translation of the concept was done by providing passively-furnished nodal discussion points within the complex in a macro to micro approach so they can discuss things and ideas which randomly pops out of their mind. Because ingenious information and technologies starts with a single piece of idea and it then needs another piece of associated idea for it to develop that when combined together, turns into an imaginable concept.

There are four sub-concepts for the project:

First is Connectivity – it means that “every part of the system should be connected to another part in any possible way”. This is a macro approach on connecting the buildings within the complex and it was translated by providing nodal discussion points, which serves as the building’s connection to another building, that are strategically placed within the site.

Next is Multiplicity and Suppressing Rupture – meaning “In a rhizome, all parts are connected to another and these parts should also be connected to the smaller parts of the system”. Meaning, things should be connected not just in a macro scale, but also in a micro scale approach. This was translated into the design by providing nodal discussion points, which are tactically placed, inside the buildings, and also within the interior space of the offices. 

Last is Heterogeneity – it states that “a rhizome is a connection between things of different nature”. This was architecturally translated through the use of material. Bamboo was combined with other possible construction material in order to create sustainable composite building products which suits best the needs of the project.

The complex basically is composed of nine curvilinear shape structures which are angled after considering the macro – micro wind patterns within the site and the technical sun path diagram. These structures are then linked by nodal points. These structures provide the spaces for the various needs for the research complex. The Main building which is located on the front part of the site is the brain of the complex. It is a 3-storey building which features a strategically-played roof levels in order to maximize the potential for passive cooling since the site will not be using any mechanical air-conditioning. Its structural elements are made from bundled Giant bamboo placed on a concrete pedestal, its walls are made from rammed earth with bamboo mat board as the main reinforcement and its roof is made from engineered bamboo mat roof sheets for durability purposes. It also features a bamboo helix upon entering the lobby; this helix supports the middle roof layer of the structure and served as an eye catching icon within the building.

Other buildings within the complex are also made from the sustainable and renewable materials same as the main building. These buildings comprises of the following: Material science division, which basically is for the mechanical researches in bamboo, next is the in-house training center where people would be educated on the proper way of producing and utilizing this material. It aims to provide a sustainable development targeting livelihood training for the people. Accompanying the development is the ease of constructing the proposed infrastructure. Next is Carpentry and Treatment processing area where the proto-types are made and where bamboos are treated for various uses. Then The housing units for the people who are training but would be coming from provinces, these a unique element. It uses a pre-shaped bamboo columns from the specie of Guadua Angustifolia or also known as the the Iron Bamboo. It aims to show the users that there are numerous ways to utilize and develop bamboo. Next is the Gallery Building which basically serves as the information knowledge when it comes to bamboo facts and a place where the technologies would be displayed and showcased for the community. And then the canteen building that is designed in a amorphous way in order to lift and to show to the users that this poor man`s timber can be made into an elegant structure. 

The main feature of the project is the Water – Collecting Mycelium - towers which are located at the center of the site. It is a bamboo helix injected with mycelium. A mycelium is a self-growing living organism that when combined with other substance, forms a strong, fire-resistant, and permanent building material. The idea is to inject a composite mycelium organism inside the penetrated internodes of the bamboo within the helix, and let the living organism grow and took the shape of the bamboo culms. After a few weeks It would then transform into a permanent bamboo-mycelium helix with water collecting system, which would serve as a sustainable maintenance in watering the nursery and the plantation. It is combing bamboo with other natural materials in order to produce an unimaginable and strong composite material.

Bamboo construction techniques used in the project are east to understand, reusable, and repeatable. These techniques are used by various institutions and have been proven to work and are safe for human habitation. What the project aim is to become an exemplary model of bamboo construction. Though old, the extensive use of these techniques exhibit a one of a kind facility for the country. It efficiently exhibits the capabilities of bamboo previously ignored by the masses. Through the extensive use of these techniques, the facility exhibits how repeatable and reusable bamboo is when properly utilized.

Green is not always sustainable. Sustainability is a holistic approach in saving Mother Nature - from the production of the material, to its utilization. This is the material of the future. Imagine steel bars growing on land, eleven times cheaper, and made by nature, for nature.

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2014 National Architectural Thesis Competition - Entry No.04

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2014 National Architectural Thesis Competition - Entry No. 09

Quirino Province is situated in the Region Two of the Philippines. It is awed for its natural scenic spots like giant caves, waterfalls, rock formation, rivers and many more. However, these places aren’t famous and developed. With the kind of lifestyle people have there, most of them prefer not to touch the natural spots and just patronize them the usual way. It might appear nice that they value culture, outmoded lifestyle and natural beauty, nonetheless, they’re not prospering while doing such. If they are, still not in an efficient or effective way of living. Most people in the world tend to use their resources for urbanization and prosperity. This is the challenge Quirinians are facing right now. It is good to be informed that Quirino Tourism Development is already on the run for progress. Tourism Programs are spearheaded by the Administration Government themselves, particularly the Governor. They reach out to places that are undeveloped but have potential characteristics and turn them into income-generating areas. Outskirt developments need to transpire to invite market and lure investors into town. One big step in transforming a municipality into a city is building rural areas into potential ones which could be a great help in stabilizing or uplifting the place to become a famous one.The researcher then considered QuirinoProvince as the most ideal place to propose a feasible project. Eventually, developing the hot springs of Barangay Eden is the chosen project. Realizing the market it could make and the contribution it can give, the feasibility studyentitled “QuirinoLifesprings: A Wellness Center Development” took matter. This proposed development is located in Barangay Eden, Cabarroguis, Quirino which is 7 kilometers away from the heart of the town. The area for development is 5.7 hectares with an estimated budget of PhP 260,000,000.oo and a project duration that will last for 3 years. The estimated ROI will start on the 8^th year from the year of its first operation. Highest portion of the site is in the entrance, the lowest portion is nearby the river but there is the presence of a natural barrier like a dam protecting the cornfields from flood in case the river outflows.This future development is in collaboration with the Provincial Tourism Agency conducting transformations of different potential areas for vast tourism.The project satisfies the needs of prospective visitors, considering the aura it portrays and the effects of it on their lifestyle. Other resorts tend to be more attractive and elegant, but thing they lack is the understanding of what a resort really is.This project aims to present a feasible proposal that will transform people’s life in all aspects: physically, mentally, spiritually and socially.The study aimed to achieve tourism success to heighten up financial stability and develop a good name for the province.In addition, this project aimed to lure Quirinians to patronize their own beautiful resorts. 

Certain projects are to be implemented in the site that are environment friendly. Regarding environment friendliness, integrating sustainable development and making people aware of the importance of proper utilization of natural resources are one of the aims. In addition, coming to know that the endangered soft-shelled turtles or the “cagots” reside in the river nearby, the researcher implements the Cagot Care Project which aims to foster notice and consciousness of marine life. Under and within the perimeters of the viewing dock is the proposed rehabilitation area for this endangered turtles.Another objective of this study regards to corporate social responsibility. The presence of the organic farm and diner explains it. Local farmers of fruits and vegetables found within the perimeters will provide and serve the diner regularly. That will help them prosper as well.  Moreover, the wellness center will welcome aspiring young graduates of the region to learn management and sustainability from them. The wellness center will be able to give help to local community initiatives and opportunities to local commerce.

Eventually, certain design concepts were taken into consideration and integrated such as Sustainable and Tropical Architecture, Universal Design and Building Automation. The researcher also took into consideration the identity of the nation through his philosophy: “Prioritizing the integration of the identity of Filipino Architecture.”This doesn’t decline or disregard international movements in Architecture, however just minimizing their philosophies to be integrated. Minimizing these modern architectural movements just aims to avoid people from degrading their own identity ending up to totally rejecting them. This prioritization of our own architecture will help encourage developers and designers to do same.Minimalism will still be reflected in the interior designs of all buildings inside the site. However, the Filipino identity will be reflected on the exteriors and functions of each building.Further regardsfor aesthetics and function, the form concept chosen is the stilt house. Vernacular architecture implies utilization of local materials which definitely would mean constant maintenance for short period of time, say a year for maintaining thatch roofs. Therefore, the researcher adopted the form concept however transforming it into a tropical and neo- vernacular one which implies the usage of modern sustainable materials.

The physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of the users were then considered on every facilities present on the development to nurture and transform the patrons completely. Referring to the site development plan:

WELLNESS BUILDING. Adjacent to the right front of the service is the wellness building where parlor, massage sections, sauna rooms, reflexology, body treatments and many more are housed in one roof. This is the first unique feature of the wellness center.

RESORT DEVELOPMENT AREA. There will be the widening of the hot springs to benefit more of it. Hot spring tubs are installed to cater a maximum of 8 persons each. Two hot spring pools are also built, of which one pool is intended for the water aerobic activity. In addition, public swimming pools with Jacuzzi are also present.

ORGANIC FARM AND DINER. With regards to food discipline or healthy diet, the idea of an organic farm and diner is considered. The diner has two entrances, one that can be accessed by the wellness and resort goers, and the other one is for short- staying occupants i.e. those who only visit the site just to have a taste of the organic foods. This is the greatest feature of the wellness center.

STANDARD ACCOMMODATION COTTAGES. Northeastern portion of the lot is where the accommodation for wellness occupants is located. A clustered- type of housing on stilts can accommodate a maximum of two persons per unit. There are twenty- five (25) units available.

EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION COTTAGES. These cottages are exclusively intended for those who want to stay nearby waters. These cottages are stilted in the Addalem River and are more ventilated. Each cottage can accommodate a family of 3 members, 5 maximum. It has balcony, kitchen, dining and two bedrooms.

ADMINISTRATION BUILDING. This is the busiest part of the site since it will welcome all visitors and patrons. This is the core of the wellness center. The building comprises of three ticketing booths, one control monitoring room, a separate check-in area for wellness patrons, an accounting office, employees’ sections, a viewing deck, a cafeteria, souvenir shop, the manager’s office and the engineering as well. The Control monitoring room will be intended for the building automation and centralization. For windows, capiz shells were used to retain Filipino identity as well as the post and lintel construction. The parking area can occupy 133 vehicles for public, 34 slots for the staffs and allotted 6 slots exclusively for the big service trucks and e-jeepneys. There is also e-cart parking area on the rear of the admin building to cater or deliver persons with disabilities. In addition, regarding universal designs, way-finding directories were installed in every ways and rotundas, with words for color blinds and colors and drawings for “no read no write” people, and lastly ramps and railings for the handicapped. 

THE LIFESPRING CLINIC. The check-out section for wellness users is housed here to avoid traffic in the admin building. Documentation and transfer of files won’t be a hassle with the help of building automation. The Clinic is naturally ventilated. Regarding circulation, after the wellness patient checks in, he/ she will have to visit the clinic for consultation and health monitoring. Thereafter, he or she can already go to facilities that are best to suit his/ her needs.

THE FUNCTION COTTAGES. All elevated, the function cottages are located at the rear most part of the admin building, basically northwest part of the organic diner. The Cottages are acoustically treated. Solar panels were integrated on the walkways.  

SUPPORTING FACILITIES. There are two service facilities that are respectively meant to cater both sides of it. This building is elevated by concrete slabs for flood prevention. It houses the maintenance facilities, control room and waste-water pump for drainage and a lounge for the employees. In addition to physical and spiritual healing, walking trails, trauma/ tension exercise and yoga pavilions are located on the adjacent portion near the wellness. There is the outdoor court which is sheltered so it can cater or accommodate social gatherings if needed.

To finish, certain visible conclusions were stated below:

The architectural solutions of the wellness center showed that it is certainly aesthetically functional, sustainable and is definitely an ideal outlet for life discipline and longevity, recreation while enjoying nature. Building automation system and green architecture principles are properly applied to the buildings designed, with environmental considerations being observed, making it a friendly and smart, secured and preserved place.  The Rehabilitation of the endangered soft-shelled turtles is the prime example of being eco- friendly. The Organic Farm and Diner would contribute greatly to the means of living of the rural people in the area. Proven to be financially viable, the project is envisioned to become an integral part of the province’s tourism and economic prosperity.

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2014 National Architectural Thesis Competition - Entry No. 10

It has been reflected in the politics and anthropology of space that structures with greater significance have always been placed in the periphery and in the center of the society (Balajadia 2013).Today the new era of globalization, there is a creation of interconnected and interdependent civilizations sharing ideas and technology across the globe. Even culture is shared globally and one example of it is sports. Sport has become the new global currency, for it is a good agent to promote social cohesion, health awareness and global unity(Sheard 2005). International sporting events have made cities into a world stage. Today, there has been increased interest in the idea of promoting urban development and change through the hosting of major events. This approach offers host cities the possibility of ‘fast track’ urban regeneration, a stimulus to economic growth, improved transport and cultural facilities, and enhanced global recognition and prestige(Chalkley and Essex 1999) The requirements of these Major events have allowed rethinking and redesigning of host cities fit to welcome athletes, media, and guest all over the world(CHALKLEY. and ESSEX 1999). Thus many urban cities compete against other urban cities for the hosting rights and improve or renew old cities. 

As the proponent explore the topic through gathering of data from existing research and sample projects, interviews with experts, and ocular inspection, the study have synthesized a new body of knowledge that contributes to the development of Sports Architecture and Legacy Master Planning. The study have introduced a new brand and standards to achieve urban regeneration through sports which are (1) Infrastructure and Economic Development, cities grow rapidly most cities expand horizontally and generating urban sprawl where there is creation of new urban centers thus leaving city centers behind to decay. To prevent urban deterioration, placing Sports facility in the heart of the city can be a jump start to regenerate the face of urban areas as well as improve the Infrastructure and Commercial activity around the neighborhood since sports complex are mass generating facility. Another set standard for urban regeneration is there should be a contribution to (2) Health Awareness and Culture Development, Filipinos are health-conscious, but this health consciousness is only on matters of taking food supplement, eating healthy food, etc. we do not have yet a culture of exercise as part of the everyday life of the Filipinos (Balajadia 2013). This problem can be address through architecture Urban regeneration projects that will include facilities for sports, parks, recreation areas and green spaces that is accessible and available to the city can contribute to bolster a culture of health and exercise among Filipinos. An additional contribution of Sports and Sports Architecture to the society is to develop and inculcate especially to the youth that value of discipline, nationalism and unity class lines and ethno linguistic difference are blurred by sports thus we are building a good future for our country. Lastly and Urban Regeneration project should contribute to the (3) Environmental Protection and conservation, since projects such as sports complex requires vast land developing in greenfield area needs to cut down hectares of trees whereas placing it in decaying Urban and Industrial portion of the city it not only save trees but can also be a potential for a brownfield revitalization project. 

Another Part of the study is Legacy Master Planning, these new concept has been used in recent projects related to sports especially to Olympic Parks. Sports Complex is a multi-Billion public investment, in the case of the Olympic Games 

Preparation to build these facilities last up to 7 years or more to be used for a 16 day event. Olympic Parks built from the past have reflected huge problems like post-Olympic use creating multi-billion white elephant projects thus by learning from the past Designing sports complex now aims to think beyond the games and design a more sustainable and adaptable facility. The legacy that the study aims for the proposed project to achieve a more adaptable design for the future is to create a (1)New District/Neighborhood inside the City Center, an inclusive mixed-use community that will add new color and vibrancy to the heart of the city as well a cultural and sports area where people can gather to celebrate and recreate. (2)Strengthening of sports especially to the youth is very vital, since the complex contains different sporting facilities there is a wide option of disciplines that can be use, introduce and develop among young Filipinos and also a chance to discover potential athletes that will represent the country in the future. Lastly major sporting events must bring (3)International Prominence to the host city and the country as one of its legacy. This will be delivered since the eye of the world will be focused on the host city in the duration of hosting international events and if delivered successfully it can place the host city into the “A” list for potential investment in the global market. It will open new opportunities for the city for investors and over all development of the city. 

All the results of the study will be used for the proposed Davao City Sports Park. The project will start with the assumption of the Davao City as the host for the 2021 Southeast Asian Games. The event will be used as the tool to push through the Urban Regeneration Project. The scope of the study is to Master Plan all the possible venues for sports around the city; a concept map will be provided which will include the foci of the Study which will be the Master Planning of the Sports Park. The Sports Park will be the center of the games and the Urban Regeneration and Legacy Project. A vital part of planning this facility is the site, after a site selection process of which the study can be more effective the chosen site for the project is located at the CBD of Davao City and in the Davao River and Gulf Area. The area is a mix used zone of Institutional and Residential zone; however the site offers great opportunity for the site is located in the estuary of the Davao River with existing Mangrove and Nipa Trees existing on the proposed site. On the river banks are informal settlers which not only contributes to the pollutant of the River but as well as endanger their lives because of disasters that the river might bring. The River gives dynamics to the development it may cause distraction if not carefully planned but if used well it can give life to the development. The riverbank area will be utilized in the site as an easement zone with long spans of gentle slope that is natural till the river edge to allow natural flow of the water and natural overflow. These areas can also be used as parks and recreation area where people can rebuild a healthier man-environment relationship. 

The Master Plan of the 66 hectares is divided into 6 zones; each mass generating sports is designated per zone to divide the human and vehicular traffic. Each zone also has a master planned legacy that will identify the post games function of these venues to achieve a more adaptable future. The zone 1 comprises of 3 competing venues which are 2,000 capacity Badminton, 3,000 capacity Table Tennis and 3,000 Capacity Lawn Tennis Arena as well as the International Broadcasting Center which will be the home of the different types of Media that will cover the whole events of the Games. The Public Square is also located on this zone, a 15,000 square meters of open space that can be used as gathering area, events ground and parking space. For its legacy All of the competing venues will retain its purpose after the games it will serve as sporting as well as training facilities for the city and national athletes as well as rentable venues for private matches. The 3,000 square meters International Broadcast Center will become the Museum of the Davao 2021 Games it will serve as the gallery of moments of the games as well as the display of the equipment’s and materials used such as costumes, Balls and other memorabilia’s of the event. The Zone 2 consists of 2 competing venues which are the Basketball and Volleyball Arena. Both venues hold 10,000 permanent capacity. The venues will also serve during the ASEAN ParaGames after the SEA Games for events such as Wheelchair Basketball and others. For the zones Future Legacy both venues will serve as permanent training and sporting events venues for the athletes of the city and the country. Since both sports contain high popularity in the Filipino society the zone is designed with outdoor warm up area that will be used as public sporting facilities that is free of access and use for all. The zone 3 contains the most important structure in the whole development the Main Stadium. It will host the Opening and Closing ceremonies of the SEA Games and ASEAN ParaGames, as well as sports such as Football and Athletic events. The zone is designed at the foci of the development, the center of all venues. For the zone 3 legacy the 30,000 capacity stadium will become the home of local and nation athletes for training and event venue. It will maintain its capacity that can be used for other events aside from sports such as concert, festivals and large crowd gathering. It will also contain commercial spaces inside and outside the stadium to compliment the crowd generating sports venue. The zone 4 covers most sports than any zone as well as the 105,000 sq. meter floor area 12 building athletes village. There are four Indoor Arenas around this zone the Indoor arena Hall 1 holds a 2,500 capacity 3,000 wrestling and fencing arena. Hall 2 comprises of 2,500 and 2,000 capacity Karate and Judo Arena, respectively. Hall 3 is a 5,000 capacity Arena that will hold Artistic and Rhythmic Gymnastics along with Boxing. Hall 4 comprises of the 2,500 size weightlifting arena with additional facility for Local and tribal sports. For the future of this zone, most Venues will become training facilities and venues to strengthen the programs for these Olympic sports. Half of the Athletes Village will become a Private hotel for the visitors from outside the city attending future event since the athletes village is a private funded facility. The other half will become a permanent Housing and Dormitories for retired and training athletes, respectively. The zone 5 covers the 3,000 capacity Baseball Arena and the Aquatic Center 1 and 2. The Aquatic Center 1 holds 1 Water Polo Pool and diving platform and pool with a 5,000 capacity venue for Diving and Water Polo and the Center 2 has two Olympic Size Swimming pool 5,000 capacity venue for Swimming and Synchronized Swimming Events. Zone 5 legacy will be the baseball Park will continue to serve as a venue for Baseball games as well as training for the athletes. The aquatic center 1 will become a shared training facility with the marine school of Agro Industrial College. The Aquatic Center 2 will become a permanent completion and training facilities for Swimming and Synchronized swimming facility. The zone 6 will serve venues such as 5,000 capacity beach Volleyball Arena, a 7,000 capacity Velodrome, and a 1,500 sq. meters BMX ground 1,500 seating area bleachers. For its Legacy most of these venues will continue to become a completion and training facility for these elite sport to ensure a strong Legacy of these sports in the Philippines. The Venues will provide a wonderful facility to encourage the youth participation in these unique sports. 

This Sports complex is a very big project that is why the master plan will also provide a conceptual time line which will include milestone to follow. Each year there are10 milestones of site and building works to accomplish, this is to ensure that the Sports Park can be delivered on the desired deadline for it to serve for the future Games. The schedule is also to safeguard the amount of significant public investment in the project and let it be accountable themselves the progress being made The first set of milestones – known as ‘demolish, dig, design’ – focused on preparing the site for the main construction of the venues and infrastructure for the Games, and the legacy beyond 2021. The next sets marked the three phases of ‘the big build’: foundations, structures and completion. All these milestones will ensure that the venues will be set and ready for Davao’s time to host the 2021 Southeast Asian Games.

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2014 National Architectural Thesis Competition - Entry No. 06

Entry No. 06

PROJECT BACKGROUND

The project came from the issue of the outnumbered capacity of the only Airport serving Metro Manila, the NAIA terminals, catering 40% more of its standard capacity. The government authorities saw the potential of Clark International Airport as the Clark Freeport Zone is composed of 4,500 hectares, the proposal of the twin airport solution will link the two future main gateways of the Philippines, NAIA and CIA by providing the Stations catering High-Speed trains or also known as Bullet trains. The National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) has given its approval of the project last May 18, 2013 and announced that the Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) and other International Investment companies are willing to fund the development with P123 Billion.

The proposal of twinning the NAIA and Clark will be accompanied by the modernization of both gateways and 3 sub stations in Metro Manila (Balintawak/near SM north Quezon City, Gil Puyat Makati, Dimasalang Manila). Their primary objective of this development is to link of the said airports, turning the 3 to 4-hour drive to 15 to 20 minutes.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Clark International Airport Corporation have long envisioned this project as part of their Full Legacy development, aiming for the Philippines to have the world’s largest airport, with Clark as the future aero polis, as well as to fulfill their ambition to develop a green city.

The Clark’s bullet train station will not only serve the passengers from the airport but will also bring the localities of Clark to Manila and vice versa. According to DOTC planning director, Engr. Deo Manalo, the DOTC and CIAC are dreaming big on this project, after the completion of the corresponding terminals, the train station in Clark will be the focal point of the full legacy. Taking off from this, there is a call to design the Clark’s Train Terminal Station to maximize its efficiency and become the focal point of the future world’s largest airport.

PROJECT HYPOTHESIS

An innovative train terminal station design that can give a remarkable identity to Clark and to the country, intended to provide a more positive and better experience through façade design and better flow of movement inside, would help create a better image of our public transportation facilities. The design will focus on improving building character and efficiency, and providing a unique quality; resulting to a safer, faster and easier experience for the users that can help increase their interest and eventually change their negative impression towards train terminal stations.

CONCEPT

“THE LINK”: A FORM AND FUNCTION CONCEPT

The concept is to provide a design that will answer the primary FUNCTION of the structure. Clark's train terminal station is designed to link air to land transportation, cities, people from different places –local and foreign,and highlight our culture to the rest of the world.

The link as the FORM was derived from the different origins of the users and their movement. It is characterized by free flowing form and curves, promoting smooth movement. The building will serve as a focal point or sculpture-like accent as it sits at the center of the airport complex.

  RESEARCH FOCUS

The design is focused on movement and transparency in architecture. Movement is based on the flow, sequence, and continuity, which are very applicable and critical when it comes to a train station or to a transport facility. This will be one of its basis of efficiency and sustainability. Transparency applied in the train station design will translate to providing natural lighting, allowing the light to enter the structure to give a sense of openness and a more positive ambiance. This openness results to a space that is quite defensible, providing a feeling of security for the users, as they feel that they can be easily seen from outside the structure and vice versa.

The “linkage” concept is not limited to connecting the interior to the exterior but is further translated to the movement systems. There is a convenient access to the structure through the ramps, vegetated parks and pathways, railings, and safe connection of people from vehicles to pedestrians entering and leaving the structure.

 THE SITE

Considering different movements of vehicles coming from different directions along, the site’s network of circulation paths can give the most convenient road access to various transportation modes. The zones of the anticipated departing and arriving passengers are designed separately from the users that desire to go to the commercial zone (middle portion), so that the smooth movement of the passengers will not be interrupted. As the site is planned incorporating THE LINK concept created the “connecting” experience, not only as the landscape merge with the structure, but also the road passes under a link bridge and through its center. Portions on the ground level also includes enclosed openings to get a glimpse of the platform level below, where it boasts of the high speed trains visible as they pass by.

PLANS

Curved forms promote smooth movement. This is the main idea of formulating the space planning of the terminal station. The plan is dictated by the sequence and flow of movement of users to achieve continuity. Its passageways, facilities, and other areas are calculated based on anticipated peak hour number of users. Free flowing experience is induced as they enter the building, buy the tickets, and walk towards the platform. There will always be a clear visual access to the next point of movement. Pleasant views inside and outside the buildings were also maximized while queuing, walking, and going around the commercial areas. The service area is located to the west portion of the structure near the parking building, to serve as buffer for heat, vibration and noise. Vegetation as thermal control is applied on certain portions of the exterior.

ELEVATIONS

The building form showcases the concept of a link with its flowing and smooth forms. THE LINK, as translated on the roof, which visually seems to link with the walls, and the walls, which eventually merges with the landscape. The façade design is intended to be iconic. From the road, the curved forms can provide a breath-taking experience for the observer. From the air, the form also provides a point of interest that can make the whole airport complex a truly remarkable landmark.

CONCLUSION

The project translation applied the concept of “the link” as an effective way to move people around in a smooth and efficient way. This was also translated in the façade and the form concepts to represent a unique and iconic structure that will serve to highlight one of the most visible structures, the airport. The main function of the structure, which is a train terminal station, clearly represents a link of transportation modes, people, culture, and architecture.

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2014 National Architectural Thesis Competition - Entry No. 03

Entry No. 03

Board 01 contains the general overview of the study. Environment has always been a major influence in everyday living. For many years, it serves as a dictating factor on the lifestyle of groups of people including their food classification, clothing material, and the building technology for shelter. People tend to adapt to its existing environment as its automatic response for acquiring its needs for survival.

According to Steele (1997), the most sustainable way of living are those from the traditional societies. These societies live with its surroundings and not against it. With the comparison of the way of living between the past and the present, using available resources is seen as a more responsible and less destructive act. With this, Michael Reynolds, a south-western US architect, founded Earthship Biotecture during the 1970’s. It is a global company promoting the use of a mixture of natural and recycled materials in buildings to contribute in addressing the problem of waste management. For 35 years, he made a study and developed a type of architecture which produces autonomous, off-grid buildings containing the necessary utilities and resources needed for human survival. It follow a set of design principles which include building with natural and recycled materials, use of solar and wind electricity, rainwater harvesting system, contained sewage treatment, thermal/solar heating and cooling, and food production (Eartship Biotecture, 2013).

          This study discusses on the production of a design solution for a residential building for a starting family of three members. The concept of the study revolves around the six design principles of Earthship which make up the building system as an alternative and complementary source of needs for daily human survival. These design principles were considered according to: (1) user needs and requirements and (2) site parameters established from climate analysis and existing conditions of the site.

The concept is seen as an opportunity to build an environmentally responsive structure that mimics the past way of living while catering to the needs and responding properly to the current condition of the present generation. This promotes self-sustaining features in buildings to reduce dependency with public utility lines as means of saving financial resources.

The project is located at Brgy. Mabilao, San Fabian, Pangasinan, Luzon. The site is an inside lot situated within the residential zone of the municipality. It can be accessed from Quezon Highway of about 100 meters through a 6-meter wide alley.

The general building configuration was dictated by the design limitations referenced according to site parameters and applicable building codes and ordinances. This generally considers the lot, zoning of spaces, site response, roof configuration and structure. The building was designed to have separate roof and building support. Roof support is made of bamboo frames and bracing systems to provide adequate support during strong winds while allowing air to pass through. Building support is a combination of reinforced concrete and wood to hold the building especially during earthquakes.

As seen in the board 02, the study utilized the Qualitative method as the approach to come up with a solution for a tropically designed residential building patterned according to the Earthship design principles which define the main concept of the proposal. It applies the research data gathered and collected to the solution.  The study specifying tropical design was based on the importance of climate as a dictating factor in designing earthships. The study is composed of three major steps: (1) establishment of user needs and requirements, (2) climate analysis, and (3) application of earthship design principles. The study involved a number of diversified principles applied in an earthship. Because of the complexity of the disciplines covered by these principles, the researcher consulted and collaborated with the different professionals concerned for determining the proper specification and detailing of each feature. This includes the involvement of an architect, structural engineer, electrical engineer, and agricultural technologist alongside with consultation with the intended users and municipal planning and development office.

User requirements and needs were established through interview with the intended users. Also, the existing residence of the family was observed, documented, and evaluated. Through this, the researcher was able to note other necessary requirements and recognize the problems being encountered by users.

After knowing the needs and requirements of the intended users, analysis of the site was conducted. The site was studied and analyzed according to the climate factors including solar data, temperature, humidity, wind, and rainfall. The data collected were utilized to come up with the site’s Climate Data.  The climate was specified and considered because it served as the basis for the details and specifications of the different utilities of the building.  All the considerations for the climate analysis were based on the data gathered from Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Service Administration (PAGASA) Weather Station located at Dagupan City. These data, along with site visit, were utilized to make the site analysis. For a more accurate detail of solar data, Motions of the Sun Simulator of the Nebraska Astronomy Applet Project (NAAP) was utilized to determine the sun’s behavior including its altitude and azimuth at a given date.

Board 03 presents the concept of earthship. With the parameters set according to the climate analysis of the site, the researcher considered the Earthship principles according to Earthship Biotecture by Michael Reynolds. These include (1) Comfort in Climate; (2) Building with Natural and Recycled Materials; (3) Solar and Wind Electricity; (4) Water Harvesting; (5) On-site Sewage Treatment; and (6) Food Source.

Comfort in climate considers the building design that responds with the existing climate to introduce comfort for the users. Under this principle, the building was designed according to the climate analysis conducted by the researcher. Bioclimatic chart was utilized to identify the proper passive cooling strategy for the building especially during summer months of March, April and May. Based on the chart, the proper passive cooling system is through natural ventilation. This is achieved through cross ventilation and stack effect through bamboo floors, operable windows, stairwell, and clerestory windows.

The principle of building with natural and recycled materials follows the idea of “taking advantage of what is available; using what is free” (Reynolds, 2013). For natural materials, the researcher considered naturally existing building materials in the municipality. For the recycled materials, the researcher considered junkshops as the main source of materials. These materials were altered and reconstructed to be used in the building. Examples include the use of square based glass bottles as glass boxes and sanding of windshields as substitute for smoked glass. The researcher referred to the municipal hall for the lists of junkshops in operation.

For “Solar and Wind Electricity,” the required load of the building was computed. This covers LED light bulbs, water pump, mini pump for aquaponics, and a television.  The researcher utilized the climatic data as a reference for justifying the feasibility of utilizing solar panels and wind turbine at the site. It was proven that utilizing of wind turbine in the site is not feasible based on the wind resource map by US Department of Energy. The building requires 15 100-watt panels to cover for the annual required load.

“Rainwater Harvesting” feature was detailed based on the computation specified in the book “Inside Out: Design Procedures for Passive Environmental Technologies” and “Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings.” Size of the cistern was designed to contain water to cover the needed load during the 3-month dry season. Along with this feature is the “On-site sewage treatment” where to part of septic tank is covered by a glazing to expose the sewage to sun light to promote faster decomposition. Plumbing lay out was patterned according to the schematics presented by Earthship Biotecture where water is utilized multiple times. In the project, water is utilized 3 times before returning back to soil.

Food source mainly concerns with providing on-site food production. In the study, with the help of a local agricultural technologist and vegetable tool kit by Department of Agriculture, 3 food sources were specified: (1) aquaponics system which provides fish and plants, (2) food garden structured through multiple cropping systems to contain several plants within a small planting space, and (3) chicken coop to provide chicken and eggs.

Board 04 presents the architectural solutions of the study.The single-detached residence was designed to respond to the tropical climate and to function according to the six design principles of Earthship which includes building with natural and recycled materials; solar and wind power; water harvesting system; contained sewage treatment; comfort in climate and cooling; and food production. The limited buildable area shall hold various spaces with diversified functions. The structure was raised on stilts to promote site drainage and undergrowth. The open plan was applied in the interior layout to create illusion of more space. Operable windows and walls were specified to control ventilation, add visual space, and bring the outdoor inside.The design concept mimics the style of local bahay kubo and bahay-na-bato. Since part of the feature is the use of unconventional materials as building material substitute, acceptability of the over-all appearance was a concern.To provide sense of familiarity and belongingness of the building, the reused and recycled materials were reconstructed and altered to provide an “almost finished” look, yet providing clues about the materials being recycled. This is a means to promote and provide additional information about the possibility and beauty of the alternative building technology applied. This study highlights the advantage of alternative building system and designing in a holistic approach with the existing ecology and not against it to improve the lives of people and the condition of the existing environment.

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2014 National Architectural Thesis Competition - Entry No. 07

Entry No. 007

SEA BREEZE HOTEL: A Tourism Destination in the North

Executive Summary

The once thriving tourism industries that provided jobs and pumped revenues into the local economy become a faint shadow to its old self. Meanwhile, new popular vacation destinations cropped up – Puerto Galera, Boracay, Cebu, Palawan, etc. and the Hundred Islands slipped into near oblivion.

Just like all growing cities in the world, Alaminos City – Home of the Hundred Islands - is now opening its doors to potential partners in investments, tourismrelated ventures, light industries and environmental conservation anchored on the universal concept of sustainable development.

Its collective vision of transforming Alaminos into a metropolitan green city where two of its greatest assets and resources – its people and the Hundred Islands National Park – is nurtured and developed into achieve equitable growth.

Capitalizing on its strategic location with the presence of the world-famous Hundred Islands National Park, and endowed with abundant natural wealth, Alaminos proved to be one of the few ‘boom’ towns in the Ilocos region. Entrepreneurs and traders were attracted like ants to honey. In recent years, investments propelled an economic boom. But today, Alaminos City with its great vision of becoming a green metropolitan city still lacks on facilities and establishments for the needs of tourists that could offer a lot more radiant experience in their vacation and a stable industry in tourism related structures for the city’s income generation.

There is a wide demand of the consuming public with regards to accommodation, entertainment, comfort and convenience amidst their busy schedules of work. It has actually been a practice of working class people to go out somewhere in the metropolis or in the nearby provinces for them to relax and at the same time break away from their insurmountable work. With this premise, the research work entitled, “SEA BREEZE HOTEL: A TOURIST DESTINATION IN THE NORTH” is anchored.

Foremost, an initial plan of the project will be conducted. Feasibility should be done for the site, its suitability and marketability. Then, the blueprint of the project will be worked out.

After which, the first phase of the development of the “Sea Breeze Hotel” will be laid. These include the foundation of the base, restaurants, amusement center, hotel accommodation, hotel amenities wellness center, entertainment establishments. In its development, it will be followed by the selection of interior designs needed for added attraction and recognition that it’s a world class hotel accommodation and entertainment center. 

Along with the development of the project, the need for protection of the aquatic resources and the environment should also be given with great importance so that nothing will be sacrificed in lieu of human wants. A water treatment facility will be built; aquamarine museum and theme park will be established to properly inform the public of the importance of these natural wonders of the earth. In the same manner, a material recovery facility (MRF) will serve as the center for the reduction of solid wastes. 

In the end, the growing demands of men will be met without compromising the natural wonders of the earth.

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