It Takes A Christmas Village

We regret to say that the author's article was not published as normally planned. We had hoped to feature a wonderful collection of Christmas trinkets and, unfortunately, the public was not able to read about it during this holiday season. We would like, however, to publish it in the author's blog with accompanying pictures to apologize for the missing feature.

We apologize to Mrs Cindy and her family for this incident. And we thank her for her time and patience once again.

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Submitted for Dec 18 (but unfortunately unpublished)

A one of a kind real estate development is taking shape in Xavierville 3, Quezon City.  It is not meant to be a premiere residential subdivision, business hub, or commercial center. It has a more noble and timely purpose: to bring a smile to anyone who visits; to transport him to a different and enchanting world; to remind him that Christmas is just around the corner.

Mrs. Cindy Villaroya, an artist and dedicated collector, initiated the “development” of her Christmas village around 2003, the day she fell in love with a ceramic figurine of a gingerbread windmill. Since then, she has been collecting miniature model houses and ornaments for her little town. She now has more than a hundred ceramic figurines, acquired from both local and US suppliers. She then painstakingly put them together to form her very own snowy village nestled along the slopes of a mountain. It boasts of a ski slope as backdrop and has a moving train that goes through a tunnel. Among the charming buildings are a fire station, old-fashioned shops, intricate candy houses, country chapels, and even a Starbucks outlet. One of the owner’s favourite buildings is a pretty chocolate factory. The little town is peopled with a happy community of little figurines in period clothes, including skiers, snowmen, and Santa Claus.

Inspired by a spirit of sharing joy for the season and motivated by a passion for detail, Cindy pursues her commitment, despite the expense and the challenges. Her first visitor while she was working on this project was one of her neighbors, my father. He visited Cindy often to see and encourage the progress of her work.  I am glad that when it was completed by early November, my Dad and I were able to view it, in all its lighted glory, just a few weeks before he passed away. His was just one of the hearts Cindy’s project has touched and for this I will always be grateful.

Who says we cannot have a white Christmas in a tropical setting? There is a beautiful one right in this neighbourhood.  And like every real estate development they do hold an open house! For this snow village, viewing officially starts on December 21, 2010, from 6pm to 8pm at Xavierville 3, Loyola Heights, Quezon City.  You may text Cindy at 0921 976 7373 to ask for details and to let her know you are coming.

No reservation fee, down payment, or deposits are needed. The only payment required is a heart ready to smile and accept the spirit of Christmas. Upon leaving, make sure to bring the joy of the season with you and pass it on to everyone you meet. It only takes a village to spread the joy of Christmas! 




*photos by Glee de Guzman

Way To Go, Cuz!

12/04/10

There are times that jobs in construction can take us away from family, home, and all that is familiar and comfortable to us. Some designers, engineers, construction workers, or other specialized builders choose or have been chosen to work in foreign lands, where, in the absence of their family and friends, they have to contend with homesickness, loneliness, and separation. Some people may do it for financial reasons, others are lured by the challenge and adventure; still there are those who leave to look for meaning, meaning in their career, their spirit, or their life.

One such fellow is my cousin, Ditus Reynaldo de Guzman Jr., who also comes from a family of builders. Ditus is a civil engineer and for a large portion of his career, has focused on building and construction within the country. I remember him working on several ranger stations even in the farthest areas of Palawan and Samar. In the succeeding years though, he enlisted as a UN volunteer and has chosen the most remote location to give of his talent and skills. He is now assigned in El Obeid, North Kordofan, Sudan, Africa, where he supervises the construction of UN projects there. He has been there for several years now, facing the twin challenges of many overseas workers, that of physical discomfort and even more so of loneliness. But the man is not one to feel despair from his situation. Instead, he fills his extra hours with as much noble and productive activity as he can.

In his own little way, he helps the locals in the area through community service in a number of simple and creative ways. Seeing that the people needed to prepare for better employment, he conducts career orientation sessions, which includes guidance in the preparation of their curriculum vitae, writing application letters, and hurdling job interviews. Aside from that he facilitates the recycling of the UN’s disposable assets, channeling some furniture to be used in public schools or health centers. This activity he handles under the umbrella project called “Log Base Goes Green”. This way, he not only helps the community through the formal construction of UN facilities, but he is also able to upgrade the condition of the smaller institutions.

Truly, it does not matter where we are in the world. We cannot remain unaffected strangers forever in foreign lands because, after all, we are all brothers under one sky. We can do our share. We can be involved. Ditus has shown us the say to go. Continue to make us proud!






*photos courtesy of Ditus de Guzman

A Place Called Shine

11/20/10

Designing a regular school is one thing, but designing an educational facility for persons with autism must be a notch higher than the norm. The place must not only be safe and sturdy, it needs to be bright and cheerful, uncluttered and inviting. Because the students are mostly children, their well-being must be a top concern and safety features must be in place, but unobtrusive. At the same time, the surroundings must encourage them to stay long enough and to want to return regularly. The rooms must be comfortable, with areas that can be both quiet and private for individual work and open for occasions of social interaction.

One such place was recently inaugurated on a busy street in Barrio Capitolyo, Pasig City. Although the school has been operating in the area for years, it now boasts an impressive five-story building designed by architect Ramon Gonzales. From the modest lobby to the modern training facilities and pleasant stimulation rooms, the structure presents a refined but welcoming environment for learning and communicating.

The Shine Special Education Center was founded on March 11, 1998, as an intervention center for persons with autism and communication-handicapped individuals. It operates all year round, providing educational services to persons of any age diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Asperger’sSyndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). In addition, the center also assists persons with communication handicaps, language and speech disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other developmental delays.

The people behind this important endeavor are co-founders Maria Rosario (Bunny) Gonzales Joaquin and Suzette Sumaria Sales. They lead a dedicated team of teachers and therapists armed with bachelor’s and master’s degrees and pursuing doctoral degrees in Psychology, Education, Special Education, PhysicalTherapy, Occupational Therapy, and/or Speech Therapy, as well as international continuing education units in Treatment and Education of Autistic and other Related Communication Handicapped Children, Applied Behavior Analysis, Oral Placement Therapy, and Picture Exchange Communication System Training.

From their webpage, we learn that this awesome group of professionals upholds that every child deserves the right to lead a productive life, one that will allow him/her to be integrated in regular schools, socially mainstreamed in different settings, empowered to carry on in work environments, and able to participate in the community at large. They believe that individuals with special needs have to receive the earliest possible intervention by therapeutically addressing their behavioral—and skills—deficits in order to work toward his/her holistic development and eventually improve his/her performance.

To this end, they use different ways of helping the child learn and achieve independence, communication, social and leisure skills. The classrooms are not so large as to be intimidating and also because a teacher only handles very small groups of children at a time. More often than not, the learning experience is one on one, so that rooms must have several interesting corners for simultaneous private work. The play rooms are bright and done in happy but calming colors. The center also simulates attractive living quarters which are used for living skills training. Allowing students to learn and experience operating household tools and appliances, caring for their surroundings, and even getting around in the kitchen is important and basic to raising one’s independence and self-esteem.

As a testament to the success of the staff’s dedication, the center has been able to place 75 percent of its children into regular preschools. Usually, their students are people often avoided by those who do not understand them; they are often discriminated against in public areas. But in Shine, the teaching staff is totally dedicated to accepting, understanding and empowering them to join the mainstream society. Despite the huge challenge, the staff recognizes the value of its task and is often rewarded by the way the students turn out—happier, independent and productive co-members of the community. To these tireless mentors go our sincere thanks and congratulations. You have truly created a place to shine!

Learning from the master

11/05/10

A Self-Protrait: Marcos De Guzman Sr.

Marcos back in the day

  

 The most valuable lessons I learned about the practice of architecture, I learned from one man. In my reckoning, he is one of the greatest architects the country has ever had. He is my father, Marcos C. de Guzman.

I am writing this while at his bedside at the St Luke’s Hospital. He is 87 years old, a couple weeks shy of celebrating his diamond wedding anniversary, and mounting a valiant stand against cancer, a challenge he has taken on with strength and determination from day one of his diagnosis. Even at his weakest, he still makes firm decisions regarding his treatment, his medication, even his resting positions.

location: Bag of Beans, Tagaytay
photo by: Glee de Guzman

He needs to be involved and know the reason and method behind every procedure. I am not surprised. It is just like him to show such strength of character. In fact, another testament to his strength of will is that among his six children three of us have become architects due to his great influence and inspiration.

The architect began his career in the 1950s and practiced for around 30 years, designing hundreds of residences, banks, hotels, office buildings, schools, churches, movie houses and commercial buildings. Even now I am awed by the breadth of his clientele and the variety of his projects. When I look back at those structures, I can still recognize the distinguishing mark of his artistry, for definitely he is more than just a skilled architect, he is an artist who can turn even a very commercial space into an attractive landmark.

Addressing people’s needs

location: Pannzian, Ilocos
photo by: Glee de Guzman

But over and above the basics of architecture, which I learned from him even before I set foot in the university, I realized that architecture was not about preparing a legacy, establishing fame or earning recognition, but all about service. Through him, I learned that architecture was not about designing monumental buildings, but about addressing the needs of people. Through his example, I learned that architecture was not about amassing financial wealth but about upholding integrity, honesty and honor. It did not matter that the credit and accolades for his work did not fall on him; what was important was that the benefit and value of the structure reverted to the user.

Above all, through him, I learned that architecture is not about gaining glory for one’s self, but in reflecting and spreading the glory to God. Every building must enable even an ordinary man to live and move in decent and pleasant surroundings. Every project must be undertaken with this mindset, this commitment.

I may have taken up architecture for all the wrong reasons, many of which were rooted in youthful vanity. But thanks to my father, I discovered that it is more fulfilling to find the humanity behind each building, the divinity moving every project. I am proud to have learned at the foot of the master.

location: Crosswinds, Tagaytay
photo by: Glee de Guzman

Over-Development

10/21/2010

We seem to have a way of self destructing. When we see a good thing, it is in our nature to use, over-use, and abuse that good thing, not knowing when to stop.

Boracay was once a pristine island. But its beauty attracted so many to the point of its near-destruction. Somewhere in the last decade, they lost control over the developments there. Any attempt to regulate and police construction on the islands just started and ended with the term of each local authority. There may have been laws in place but there is a lack of political will to enforce them.

The same is true with Tagaytay. The city used to have very strict building regulations; but now, the once green city has become a concrete jungle. Sooner or later, the cool breeze it has been known for will be gone because there will be more concrete than greenery.

In Baguio, the fresh pine scented air has been replaced with sickening diesel fumes. So much of the natural terrain has been carved out to make way for property development.

Even in the remote Tubataha Reefs, we have been too lax about the number and quality of divers allowed to visit the park and this has taken its toll as well. I shudder to imagine any more commercialization within the area.

Even the parks and free spaces very near our homes, which are often the only remaining greenbelt within the metropolis, are being built over with barangay halls, commercial centers, parking lots, and covered courts. Is this really the road to “development” or is this the certain way to our demise?

The authorities probably mean well, trying to chalk up brownie points for spending on infrastructure projects, but they may not be aware of the effects of all these man-made structures on our ecological future. Perhaps, some could be driven by greed, since more buildings mean potentially more income-generating space. Some are not aware that they have put nature on the balance, just on the verge of self destruction. We lack the awareness about, much less the will, to preserve a good thing. That is a sad commentary about development, an even sadder epitaph to nature.

In other countries, these natural gems are zealously protected. They know that when abused the natural attractions will be gone and cannot be replaced. Even in the middle of real-estate hungry New York City, their people have chosen to maintain the green expanse that is Central Park! In our case, unfortunately, no one cares enough to do something about over-development. We must resolve to analyze every building project and see how it will affect our surroundings, our environment, our future. We must put more effort in reinstating nature in our communities. If there is a choice between constructing and planting, we must always give Nature a fighting chance.

A Green Home in Subic

10/15/2010

To see it is to believe it. There is a lot of talk about green architecture but not as many examples. There are a few structures which were built as showcases of green concepts, showing the ecologically-sound and -sustainable features in place, but no one is there to validate if it works in actual everyday use. But with the help of some friends, I was able to meet and visit with the creator and resident of a real lived-in green home. The experience would turn any cynic into a believer of the green concept.

Meet Kevin Wickham and Sherry Apostol, who have made their home amid the lush rainforest of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone in Zambales.  Their home features green roofs, living walls, and passive cooling elements, all the key concepts of green architecture. They started off with a 250 sq.m. concrete duplex, originally built in the 1950s. The owner decided to eliminate the previous owners’ poorly planned renovations, opting for a modern feel with smooth cement block walls, porcelain tiles, and perforated aluminium ceiling panels. Aside from restoring the structure’s original footprint, the removal of the wood additions likewise made it easier to eradicate the termite infestation. He transformed the structure into a residence in the minimalist style with six variable-use rooms, including two home offices, while using 90% locally-made materials, thus keeping a tight rein on construction costs. The owner, also the principal of Terrain Concepts, specified that recycled fly ash from coal-burning power plants be used as an additive to the cement mix. He claims this method reduces the amount of concrete needed and strengthens the cement finish. He likewise specified non-VOC (volatile organic compound) paint to avoid toxic fumes. Natural cross ventilation is maximized through the home’s upper venting windows, while exterior custom sunshades, made from recycled tubular steel, contribute to its passive cooling system. A major feature of the home is a dramatic six-foot wide stairwell that opens up two floors. This technique, while an aesthetic plus, also works to help circulate and cool indoor air. No air-conditioning unit was installed as none seems to be necessary. Rainwater is collected with two 750 liter water tanks set up to accept water runoff from the roof. Gray water, or that used from showering, laundry, and dishwashing, is recycled and filtered for garden irrigation. Energy efficient fluorescent lighting was installed, instead of the usual incandescent bulbs to reduce energy use. Vertical planting was applied to the east and west facades of the home, as well as a green roof, to help insulate from heat and create more garden spaces. In fact, the couple has allotted a large part of their 1250 sq.m. grounds to the planting of vegetables in raised beds.

Living green is a great challenge for everyone. It takes a lot of creativity, intelligence, and dedication to achieve that perfect mix of the beautiful, liveable, and sustainable. But it is possible! 

View From the Hill

9/27/2010

“Down from the Hill, into the world go I… “So goes the hymn of my Alma Mater. These days, I hear it often after our basketball team wins the games. However, this piece is not about basketball but about living on a hill, seemingly high up above the world.

Living in the heart of the city has its advantages, such as being closer to malls, offices, commercial establishments… Mmm? Did I say these were advantages? Anyway, living outside the city has its advantages too.

If you have seen Metro Manila from a viewpoint in Antipolo, you would know what I mean. The smog is just awful, especially after realizing that we breathe it in everyday. Air-conditioning your homes may only make it worse since you need to contend with second hand air within your homes plus the fumes any household chemicals emit but we hardly notice anymore.

Within the city, it may not always be a good idea to step outside for a breath of air. The traffic, the noise, the floods just add further insult to injury. This is why it may be wise to move out and seek higher ground. There are people who decide to move away from the city and build their homes where the air is fresher. It must be nice to be able to take a stroll in the morning and possibly see a clear sunrise everyday, then later on to even catch a nice view of the sunset. Such moments could be priceless.

These are among the advantages enjoyed by residents of Alegria Hills in Cagayan de Oro. Although the community is merely 15 minutes away from the city, homeowners are rewarded with these invaluable perks. If only Manila had somewhere this beautiful truly 15 minutes from the metropolis, I would probably move out there too. 

People with Disability, Take Them an Extra Step

9/8/2010

People with Disability or PWD. I do not know if this is the politically correct term to refer to the Disabled or Handicapped sector, but the basic truth is that these are the people we must take great care to consider when designing buildings particularly in public areas. They are the VIPs in our society, along with senior citizens, infants, and small children. Although they may be a minority among the users and patrons of malls, parks, amusement centers, or sports complexes, we cannot disregard their concerns and needs. Perhaps the very fact that their requirements were never met previously had been the reason for their lack of patronage of such areas. They could have been the People We Denied.

I used to base my designs on standard accessibility codes, which generally work very well. However, nothing beats actually pushing and steering a loved one in a wheel chair in crowded places like malls, exhibition halls and indoor ball games to really appreciate the dire need for better facilities.

There are malls that are very friendly to people with disability, such as Ayala Center, Makati and the new Eastwood Mall. It is quite easy for wheel chairs and strollers to navigate from the parking lot into the mall. In our country, we are blessed with having close-knit families that frequently move around in a group. So more often than not, wheeled vehicles are manually pushed, rather than motorized. It is not enough then to put ramps in place just to satisfy the basic codes, but these must be done correctly, with the proper slope, width, and safety features.

The most common problem with doors is that these do not open automatically and if no doorman or guard is around to assist, it will be difficult for the person on a wheelchair to enter. In some toilets for the handicapped, door closers make it difficult to push in a wheelchair while keeping the door open, even if the wheelchair bound person is assisted by someone else.

At the Araneta Center, it is not so easy to get from the mall to the coliseum in a wheel chair. Although there are ramps installed in some places, these are not sufficiently indicated and guards and ushers are not even aware of them and so are unable to direct those concerned. To add to the difficulty, these ramps are blocked by impudent business establishments that appropriate it for their outdoor seating, overgrown plant boxes, or signage. The authorities must require full compliance with the regulations that are in every building code.

In exhibition halls like the World Trade Center, there must be an ongoing policing of the organizers and exhibitors who carelessly put up their displays and booths with hazardous electrical wires crisscrossing the floor, making it difficult and dangerous to manoeuvre a wheelchair. This situation should have been anticipated and solutions installed beforehand.

I hope that the administrators of these facilities review their safety handbooks and consult their architects to rectify the problems. It is bad enough that some people have to be in wheelchairs. The least we can do is to make our surroundings a little easier and safer for them.

Experience is the best teacher. This is why I believe that every architect and architecture student must experience pushing a wheelchair or assisting an elderly person in a public place to better understand their needs. This could convince them that designing merely to meet the standards may not be enough. We must take an extra step for them. They ought to be the People We Defend. 

Coping with Change

8/26/2010

There have been a lot of discussions regarding climate change and global warming. We have listened and perhaps even participated with varying degrees of interest and concurrence. We eagerly waited for the people’s great and radical responses to begin. But what do we really expect to happen? Are we content to just sit and wait for others to move? In the construction sector, we should be taking a more active stance to address the environmental issues that face us today. There may be imminent changes in the norms regarding the way we design our houses. We ought to re-think how we have been building, without heed for our effect on nature. How well are we coping with the changes in our environment?

Our local climate is getting warmer, winds are becoming stronger, floodwaters rise haphazardly, which could indicate that the standard design system introduced several decades ago may not be applicable today. For example, the minimum required slopes set by roofing suppliers may no longer be sufficient to withstand leaks brought about by stronger winds. Wind load factors considered in designing roof framing systems may need to be adjusted. The usual house elevations may have to be revisited to prepare for the intermittent rise in water levels.

More than ever, insulation may need to be considered more seriously. These materials with which we shield our walls and ceilings are the unheralded help that cuts down energy costs by reducing the requirements for cooling. In tropical countries, insulation products are mostly limited to roofing systems. However, there is a need to use these in other areas as well, such as walls, fenestrations, and ceilings.

Some of today’s building standards may soon become obsolete and the current green features that are still considered a novelty may actually be the new standards to follow. Basic planning norms, based on orientation, may be further analyzed scientifically through computer modelling to protect specific spaces from direct sunlight and heat.

Specifications of materials as to their insulating properties must be explored. There are a number of new products in glass, paints, and roofing that have improved insulating properties. The ones applicable to the structure must be recommended. There are new developments in air conditioning systems that are more energy efficient. There are likewise plumbing systems that are economically and environmentally preferable.

To play an active role in coping with the huge changes in our environment, we have to become more informed consumers, more responsible builders. We have to seek out professionals who can advise us on the best options for our particular needs. In designing homes, you may need your architect more than ever, because in the long run, a properly designed house will not only increase your comfort level in the home but reduce your energy costs, making homes more liveable, more sustainable, and better able to cope with the change. 

Water, Water everywhere

8/11/2010

“Water, water everywhere, nor any drop to drink.” Lines from the “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” by Coleridge still spring to our lips to this day, albeit under totally different scenarios. However, in either case, something remains terribly wrong with the notion. In the present day, it is a case of either our rivers drying up or raging with flood waters. This paradox could be a sign of an unhealthy environment.

There are a number of reasons for this sorry state. Deforestation, as propagated by irresponsible logging, is the primary killer as it denudes the mountains, accelerates erosion, hampers streams, and changes water flow in the lowlands. The effect of this chain of events you can see in the dry riverbeds during the summer and the flooding during the rainy season. Homes near waterways or on hillsides are at risk.

In addition, when garbage and other toxic substances are dumped in our water ways, the bloodstream, our life line gets really infected. This dirty water seeps into the soil and could contaminate not just our dams but even our agricultural lands. Homes that drill pumps for daily use may be endangered.

There are several places in mountainous areas that still have continuous flowing water right at their doorstep. However, uncontrolled development in such areas could soon take its toll.  There is no regulation imposed on the number of buildings placed along the hills. The forests are being replaced with houses. What were once tranquil free-flowing streams are now trickles congested with garbage. They have been converted into a conveyor for waste disposal.  It is such a sorry site when you see beautiful rock formations surrounded by water that is silted and full of trash. Yes, nature is generous, but so prone to our abuse. Not enough warning or scolding about landslides and flooding seem to make us do something about it.

Government policies are not enough. The people must be made aware. They must be educated as early as the cradle. The concept of caring for the environment it must sink in or else we are sunk.

If only:

If only government agencies can control the development by having policies in place on where and how one should build.

If only we can have effective garbage collection systems and disposal that will force and encourage residents to stop throwing their garbage into our water ways.

If only the residents are conscientious enough and aware that doing otherwise is bad for our environment.

If only our water supply can be distributed properly, then people in Baguio need not crowd around the only places where water is available.

If we can start planting even more trees to replenish our forests.

If only squatting is not tolerated or even encouraged by the local officials.

If only both public and private developers would install as a standard sewerage treatment facilities, then our waterways would remain clean.

If only there is less greed.

If only there is more concern for the environment.

If only there is more concern for others.

In other parts of the world, potable water flows continuously 24/7 from spouts in every village plaza. How I wish we could have those here too. It is a sure sign of a healthy environment.  Now that is sustainable! 

Windows of the World

7/29/2010

Some sage once said that the eyes are the windows of the soul. The eyes could reveal the range of one’s emotions, thoughts, personality, and state of mind and enable the seer to learn and appreciate his surroundings. Meanwhile another construction sage contends that the windows are the eyes of the home. Therefore like eyes, windows hold one of the highest potentials for discovering the type of persons living within. They likewise allow these people to see and learn about the things around them.

As with eyes, it must be possible to secure windows from overly-curious onlookers when necessary. For this reason, we may choose to install screens, shutters, or drapes. Aside from providing protection, these can greatly beautify and distinguish the building itself. Sometimes, the window can be the strongest selling point of a house. Its appearance can dictate the total look and ambience of the room, if not the whole house. Realizing this, many real estate developers spend a lot to design, fit, construct, and adorn the windows of their model units with the latest in glare-free glass, smoothest sliding panels, coolest blinds, and most elegant curtains. And true enough, this is money well-spent.

I have always been fascinated by windows. And it seems that through the years and all over the world, there are others who have been too. This is evident from the homey country shutters of France, to the romantic balcony windows of Venice, and to the stately glass windows of Vienna, many of which are still charming to this day. Each one has a distinct look that has persisted because it speaks of the temperament of its residents and at the same time has proven suitable to their weather and their needs.

Like my daughter who takes photos of every furry cat we see, I seem to have the same feeling about windows. I think windows are a unique opportunity to see and recognize the culture and traits of people. They are mute and candid testament to their personality and way of life. 

The Chapel of St. Loup, An Origami Structure

7/19/2010

With the aid of a GPS (Global Positioning System) unit and after navigating a few winding roads, we finally found this design marvel, The Chapel of St. Loup, in a little village of the same name in the south of Switzerland. Due to its seemingly simple and lightweight structure with paper-like folds, it has been called an origami chapel. The structure is something one might not expect in Switzerland, its architecture being very modern against a backdrop of historical buildings. And probably because of this, it is like a breath of fresh air amid all the old towns one sees in Europe.

The little chapel, run by the Catholic nuns of the Deaconess Community of St. Loup, does not blend in with the hospital complex surrounding it, but unabashedly stands out and surprisingly complements it. This building was erected by Local Architecture and Arch. Danilo Mondada, which had won a competition in 2007 to restore the nuns’ historic motherhouse, including their 200-year old chapel, but had to build a temporary place of worship for the good sisters. With the help of Professor Yves Weinhard and Dr. Hani Buri of ETH University in Zurich, a diminutive structure was designed, something that had to be inexpensive and weather-friendly, but not an eyesore within the hospital grounds. The pair had been researching methods to create strength and rigidity in small structures by adopting the principles of origami. With this project, their method of combining design and structural analysis to develop novel geometrical forms was put to the test.

The chapel makes use of 7-meter high timber panels for walls that fold like an accordion at a slant to support the roof that rises up to 12 meters over the nave,  without the need for a pre-existing linear framework but joined by folded metal plates. The wall behind the altar is made of copper-coated glass, which lets in plenty of light but remains kind to the eyes. In addition, transparent plastic panels in the gable sides are covered with fabric to allow natural light through. The wooden panels were produced by digital laser-cutting and assembled on site by local carpenters. Although sturdy, the building can be dismantled and rebuilt as needed. In fact, the structure was put up in less than two months.

We have to admire the ingenuity and daring of the design team, in creating a unique, functional, and attractive structure. It is novel ideas such as this that make architecture such an exciting and rewarding field. 

Celebrating the Old and Relishing the New

7/19/2010



Europe is so rich in culture that touring its cities and countryside can only inspire awe. With the many buildings and structures I encounter I am struck by the dates etched on their walls. Some of these date back to the early centuries AD, making even our local 18th century buildings seem current. Their people can boast the skill to create structures that were built to last but most of all, the wisdom to value and preserve these masterpieces of their race.


It is wonderful that the people who live amid the historical treasures can see beyond their daily grind and choose to preserve the styles of their heritage. They refuse to sacrifice the past to the lure of modernity and convenience.


In most of the countryside of France, there are village rules that restrict the kinds of improvements the owners can make to existing buildings, including limiting the structure’s footprint and its height. This move helps maintain the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. In the quaint towns outside Geneva, the old chalet-style houses are still very much in use. Along the quaysides of Venice, the beautiful antique buildings are still viable homes, hotels, or workplaces.


We do have our own historical architectural treasures but many are being torn down haphazardly, not only because there are no laws against doing so, but also there is a grave lack of regard for our heritage.


It saddens me whenever I see our old edifices being demolished under the guise of modernization. It is not a matter of replicating what was once lost; it is all about preserving that which we have left. In architectural school, all students are obliged to study the history of buildings and structures. However, there is no subject dealing directly with their preservation. There is little effort to inspire respect and appreciation for the old structures. Perhaps that is why our young builders are quick to design high-rise buildings, modern malls, or even adapt styles from foreign shores. Very few are interested in reviving the glory of our own past.

The Church of St. Benedict: A Beacon of Prayer

7/19/2010



Just outside the entrance of the Ayala Westgrove Heights, a few minutes from Sta. Rosa, stands the Church of St. Benedict. It is a gift to the community by the developer, Ayala Land.


In conceiving the project, the designers had to look to the roots of faith experience and discover what people really need to pray. In this modern world, we talk fast, eat fast, travel fast and even pray fast.


Our impatience to get to the end and our focus on completion rather than on the process is a real danger. For instance, when we read the scripture too quickly, we may miss the message or when we recite prayers mechanically, we are not comforted by the faith in the words. All these have a power all its own and we do not reap it. St. Benedict realized that power, so he took the time to let prayer work within him. It is hoped that his inspiration and example would help the community glean more from attentive, purposeful prayer.


Designed in his honor
This, likewise, was the way this church was designed in his honor. It took more than five years from conceptualization to completion. Now it is a reality.


St. Benedict initiated and was committed to the monastic system. During the fifth century he was able to set up 12 monasteries in Subiaco, Italy, one of which is the Abbey in Subiaco. This monastery has a distinct Mediterranean character and has served as one of the inspirations for this church.


From the proportions of the façade and the roofing to the rose window and the long and narrow openings, the church in Westgrove resembles that Abbey. Features such as the arches, bell tower and the courtyard framing the church were also inspired by the same model, each one allowing some space and shield from the outside.


Indoors, the air is passively cooled by clerestory windows and the lofty ceiling, although air-conditioners are in place. Lighting is muted, with the stained glass windows providing charming illumination. There is also a glow from the altar because of the patina of gold leaf behind the crucifix, which was taken from a vision of St. Benedict.


Symbol of our faith
From the time of the early Christians until today, the cross has been the symbol of our faith. From the writings of St. Gregory the Great, we learned that St. Benedict had a deep faith in the Cross and worked miracles with the sign of the Cross. It is from this Cross of St. Benedict that the cross at the top of the church was modeled.
In the medal of St Benedict, there is inscribed Crux Sacra sit mihi lux, which means: “May the Holy Cross be my light.” Indeed, may the Holy Cross and this church serve as the community’s light.

Choosing a School for our Future Builders

6/2/2010

To help ensure a bright future for architecture in our country, it is important to care for the education and exposure of our architecture students. Like any parent of a college freshman, I too had to analyze and compare the various learning institutions available and guide my daughter’s decision on where we would be entrusting the next four or five years of her growth.

One of the critical factors that shaped our decision was the learning environment present in each school. Surroundings influence the occupants of any place. Many psychological studies have shown that a person’s feelings, temperament, learning, and ideals can be heavily colored by wherever they reside, work, or spend substantial time. To illustrate, the beautiful statues and structures in Greece are not unique occurrences in that country. There are so many masterpieces existing all over the isles that we know this love and appreciation for the perfect form and grace is actually a reflection of the general populace. Many Greeks created these masterpieces; their people accepted and revered them. Therefore, we know that beauty is a commonality for this people. It is something that they live and breathe, and so quite naturally, create. Even centuries later, present day artists still get inspired by the Greek concept of beauty. So definitely, environment plays a big factor in creativity.

Studying in beautiful surroundings exposes the young minds to better aesthetic standards than they may be used to. They are able to break out of the design limitations that they previously had. They may be able to refine or correct their old design misconceptions. I have heard of new students who are assigned to draw their ideal home. Those who live in smaller houses tend to design structures with lower ceiling heights, while those who have been around expansive rooms are more inclined to input such into their creations.

In addition, freedom of space and movement can be conducive to learning. Cramped spaces may be constricting and limiting. Although seasoned designers can argue that it is possible to create beauty even in the worst conditions, such a gift is not common to neophytes and is only possible after a complete basic formation and sufficient experience.

It would be nice if most parts of the school are accessible to the students. Only a fraction of the school’s area must be off limits. They must be able to use and appreciate most of the places in the school, just like in their own homes, not covered up in dust cloth for visitors alone. I have seen institutions with huge empty halls reserved only for the occasional special guests, while students are squeezed into small classrooms and study areas.

Aside from the building itself, the faculty must likewise be scrutinized. Even if they are all accomplished professionals, do they still have the time and passion to teach? Hopefully they are not too busy with their private practice that they cannot be reasonably present and available for their students.

For the very impressionable youth, a school’s appearance plays a vital role in their decision. But who can blame them? After all, they are about to pick their second home, the place where they will be spending most of their time, the place they will be known by hereafter.

My daughter has now made her choice of school. At this point, we can only hope we have made the right decision.