Benedict Castillo | Architecture Portfolio 2025

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JOHN BENEDICT A. CASTILLO

As a multifaceted and hardworking graduate of the Architecture program, I seek to create a diverse experience through various local and international activities related to the realm of design. All of these are aimed to enhance and expand my skills in the field in order to achieve growth, as well as to contribute my knowledge concerning the creation of an idealistic and sustainable fusion of the arts and sciences for the betterment of the globalized society.

johnben.castillo@gmail.com

linkedin.com/in/bencas28

orcid.org/0009-006-5346-3684

MAJOR EXPERIENCE

SEP 2023 to OCT 2023

Architectural Intern (Construction Supervision)

Sevilla Keystone Architects, Inc. Pasay City, Philippines 1300

NOV 2022 to OCT 2023

Founding President and Overall Research Director

PUP CADBE Research and Innovation Club Santa Mesa, Manila, Philippines 1016

NOV 2022 to OCT 2023

Architectural Intern (Office Works)

National Historical Commission of the Philippines Ermita, Manila, Philippines 1000

DEC 2021 to APR 2022

Freelance Drafter & Jr. Construction Works Inspector

Two-storey 3Br-3Ba Residential Project Molino II, Bacoor City, Cavite, Philippines 4102

EDUCATION

I supported the creation, implementation, and documentation of design and as-built drawings while regularly inspecting construction progress and presenting findings to top management via written and verbal reports. Another duty was focused on procurement, scheduling, and material inventory.

Principally developed the identity and operational framework of the college’s newest organization, ensuring its sustainability and trajectory towards internationalization. I was able to pioneer broader student research representation as the first undergraduate of the college to present in Europe.

Conducted review and inspection of local sites and structures handled by the Commission, while co-designing a partial Conservation Management Plan (CMP) for the adaptive reuse of the Carriedo Mansion in Sta. Mesa, under the direction of the Historic Preservation Division (HPD).

Drafted detailed architectural interior plans and 3D visualizations and coordinated with the architect and engineer the quality of construction and notable superficial issues worthy of further diagnosis for as-built drawing consistency. I was also present and contributed artistic insights during client meetings.

SKILLS

Bachelor of Science Degree • 2019 – 2024

Polytechnic University of the Philippines Santa Mesa, Manila 1016

Thesis: “Batangas Creative Quarter: Leveraging Architecture as a Catalyst for the Orange Economy and Local Cultural Branding Through Placemaking”

Senior High School (STEM Program) • 2017 – 2019

University of Santo Tomas España Boulevard, Manila 1008

Junior High School • 2014 – 2017

Statefields School, Inc.

Molino III, Bacoor City, Cavite 4102

• Digital Architectural Drawing: Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Vray, Lumion, Enscape, and D5 Render

• Manual Architectural Drawing: Graphite, pen and ink, colored (watercolor, gouache, alcohol marker), and mixed-media application

• Architectural Design: Conceptualization, space planning, site development, comprehensive macro to micro site analyses, historical studies, construction drawing interpretations, execution of simple drawings to actual built form, sustainability standards, and procurement

• Professional Skills: Technical Writing, Public Speaking, Creative Design Tools, and Office Tools

PROFESSIONAL METRICS

Competitions

5th Place

4th SCPW Wetland Center Design Competition

SCPW & SM Prime, Inc. | May 27, 2024

People’s Choice Award

Annuale Virtual Pavilions Design Competition

UAP Commission on Education | August 9, 2024

2nd Place

National Best Research Paper Award

UAPSA National | June 13, 2022

Positions

Founding President & Overall Research Director

CADBE Research and Innovation Club | 2022 – 2023

Vice President for Programs and Development

UAPSA — PUP Chapter | 2021 – 2022

Creatives Deputy

UAPSA — PUP Chapter | 2020 – 2021

Publications

The formation of the creative cities in the Philippines: A journey towards an orange economy. 2024 | Q-2 Scopus-indexed | DOI: In Process

An analysis of the imageability of ethnic enclaves in Manila, Philippines for culturally sustainable design and development. 2024 | Q-2 Scopus-indexed | DOI: In Process

Documenting the Works of the Philippine National Artists in Architecture. 2024 | Q-2 Scopus-indexed | DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-33222-7_11

From power to architecture: an analysis on the identity transformation of Tagaytay people’s park in the sky through edifice complex and democratization theory 2023 | Q-1 Scopus-indexed | DOI: 10.1186/s40410-023-00217-1

The impact of migration in the image of the city: The case of BaSECo Compound in Manila, Philippines 2022 | In Preparation

Conferences

31st Manila Studies Conference

The Metropolitan Theater | November 17 – 18, 2023

The 8th International Conference on Urban Planning and Architectural Design for Sustainable Development (UPADSD)

University of Florence, Italy | October 24 – 26, 2023

4th Annual Intramuros Young Scholars Conference 2022 Intramuros, Manila | December 12, 2022

The 6th International Conference on Conservation of Architectural Heritage (CAH)

University of Palermo, Italy | May 25 – 27, 2022

Dynamics of Migration in Shaping the Image of the City

A Cross-country Neighborhood Study: India + UAE + Philippines (Joint Studio)

Dubai, UAE; Pune, India; and Manila, Philippines | September 2 – 30, 2022

International Conference on the Built Environment (ICBE) 2021

Jindal School of Art and Architecture, Sonipat, India | Septemer 17 – 19, 2021

CERTIFICATIONS

Course Certificate:

Designing for Greater Efficiency (DfGE) International Finance Corporation # 2024112-PHL-PUP-4458 | Issued: Jan 2024

Training Certification in AutoCAD 2D&3D with Color Rendering

Autodesk Training Center # AP0043096359854784540 | Issued: Dec 2021

Training Certification in Revit 2020

Architecture

Autodesk Training Center # AP0043096266164743999 | Issued: Oct 2021

Course Certificate:

“The Architectural Imagination”

The Graduate School of Design, Harvard University # 4b7aaa136f1a4c49837504d65989bf4a | Issued: Sep 2020

Course Certificate:

“Introduction to Sustainability” University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign # KBCXBMXRX2K7 | Issued: July 2020

Course Certificate:

“Design: Creation of Artifacts in Society” The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania # R78C456JQ6GN | Issued: June 2020

Course Certificate:

“The Language of Design: Form and Meaning” California Institute of Arts # YPUPEVEJTTAP | Issued: May 2020

REFERENCES

Dr./Ar. Jocelyn A. Rivera-Lutap, MSArch, FUAP jarlutap@pup.edu.ph

Ar./EnP. Melodia A. Ramos-Sampan, PhD, UAP, PIEP mrsampan@pup.edu.ph

CONTENTS

This portfolio exhibits the designer’s profound knowledge and comprehension of several architectural typologies of differing complexity, demonstrated through context-driven architectural concepts, theories, and processes.

Eleven projects highlight skills including comprehensive site and user analyses, scientific research, design translation, architectural drawing production, master planning, space planning, application of building utilities and technologies, architectural interiors, renovations, adaptive reuse, and both digital and manual visualization.

Each creation is illustrated to be enjoyable and is intended to convey a narrative centered on fresh perspectives in architectural design.

01

Project on: 10th Semester

Supervision:

BATANGAS CREATIVE QUARTER: THE FIRST CREATIVE QUARTER IN THE PH

TECHNICAL DETAILS

LOT AREA: 6.55 ha.

LOCATION: Balagtas, Batangas City, Batangas

BUILDINGS: 5 Major Buildings + 2 Minor Buildings

APPROACH: Creative-Led Architecture

DESIGNED: Whole Proposed Development

Apart from the well-established UNESCO Creative Cities of Baguio, Cebu, and Iloilo, several other cities that possess varying cultures arising from the Philippines’ archipelagic context in the Philippines can be considered creative. Despite making up 7.30% of the national GDP (PSA, 2023), translating to Php 1.60 T, the sector remains persistently underutilized, fragmented, and occasionally overlooked. These results in lost potential and the alarming absence of knowledge transfer—the dying of creative works, especially Indigenous ones.

Batangas demonstrates an interesting, fragmented case of creative industries. The province, as a whole, exhibits creativity; however, upon closer inspection, there are considerable disparities in performance and operation due to the varying institutional capabilities and spatial provisions per municipality. With these issues, coupled with national support for furthering the said sector, a unique opportunity is found to assemble the creative industries of several Batangan areas in the capital and reintroduce the origin of the local sector’s components effectively to the masses. These will be made possible by the proposed first-ever creative quarter in the country.

CREATIVE-LED ARCHITECTURE

Supported by the idea of “advancing local cultural branding by ensuring equitable physical possibilities for various sectors of the Batangas Creative Industry,” this concept reflects theories, such as the Creative Milieu, by designing spaces that are inspiring, nurturing, varied, and interwoven. It also highlights the “creativity first” notion, equalizing the degree of presence and public showcase of the Creative Industry’s “behind the scenes” and “final product.” This concept also touches on the capitalization of intentional and/or unintentional forms of encounter for maximized benefit of the creative community.

SUB DESIGN CONCEPTS

Form Concept

Drawn by the dynamic waves of Batangas beaches and the spirit of its gastronomy, it starts from a circular shape, incorporates undulations and symbolizing adventure and creative industry dynamics at present.

Function Concept

Circular Approach or non-hierarchical organization, that is hugely inspired by Bernard Tschumi’s Concept of NonHierarchy / Theory of De-structuring. The creative spaces are equally shown, appreciated, and experienced.

The site is a 65,451 m2 or 6.55 ha parcel of land conveniently located along the Pres. Jose P. Laurel Highway, right before the Balagtas bridge, at the boundary of Barangay Sorosoro Karsada and Balagtas. The lot’s center is situated exactly at 1°4’1.9”N and 121°04’25.6”E. The lot has a frontage of approximately 224.88 m towards the highway and about 317.62 m towards the access road. Its orientation is mostly north, with the east side being mostly irregular. Notably, the winding road leading to it provides an element of surprise to passersby.

RESEARCH DISCOVERIES

Boxplot: Familiarity Scores of Natives, Non-Natives, and Tourists in Batangas with Batangas Creative Industries

Batangas Natives, followed by Non-Natives, are still more familiar with Batangas Creative Industries compared to Foreign and Local Tourists.

Graph: Awareness on the Lack of Creative Infrastructure and Perception on Imbalances with Batangas Creative Industries

People that perceive the fragmentation of Batangas Creative Industries attribute it to the lack of infrstructure, particularly a centralized one.

This is the first research that has proven that Batangas is a Gastronomy Province, with the leading answer being “Kapeng Barako.” Word Cloud: The Most Prominent Creative Produce of Batangas Province According to the Public

Determination of Site Parts Arsising From Contextual Study

The thorough site analysis resulted in the determination of strategic keypoints within the site, and how it can be primarily utilized in consideration of the natural and social contexts of its surroundings.

Determination of Priority Directions and Clusterings

The axes represent the critical points of visibility to maximize the interior and exterior appeal of the site. These served as guides for the orientation and preliminary location of the major zones.

Proposing of Massing and Built up Forms

The site’s configuration and form were based on the concepts that resonate the identity of Batangas province. This came from the results of a survey to the public. All the while, non-hierearchy is maintained.

Application of Access, Setbacks, and Landscape

The planning of the site strives to be pedestrian-centric, while still allowing necessary access (e.g., drop-off, utilities, etc.). The road configuration was organic and experiential driven to pique wonder.

Marvel the articulated waves of the BCC Administration building (above) and enjoy its creative-based administrative facilities (below)

BCC’s architecture reflects the concepts of placemaking and creative milieu to establish a vibrant and dynamic creative environment. The design, influenced by conventional regional architecture and contemporary innovation, prioritizes both hard and soft elements—harmonizing physical components such as buildings and public areas with intangible features like social networks and cultural exchanges. Climate-responsive solutions, like building orientation and material selection, certified by EDGE, underscore a dedication to sustainability. The merging of purpose, monumentality, and natural beauty fosters an atmosphere that enhances user productivity. This choreography of spaces ensures that the complex transcends into a landmark for creative appreciation and expansion.

Batangan Cultural and Creative Hall Architectural Bay Section
Composite Steel Decking Slab Detail 1:10MTS
Raft Foundation Detail 1:10MTS

A CONVENTION CENTER IN BATANGAS CITY

TECHNICAL DETAILS

LOT AREA: 1.42 ha.

LOCATION: Balagtas, Batangas City, Batangas

BUILDINGS: 5 Major Buildings + Expansion

APPROACH: Creative Placemaking

DESIGNED: Convention Center

Convention centers are vital spaces in a globalized city that can enhance tourism and commerce. Verivante Convention Center resonates with its site’s mission to embody the convergence of culture and advancement in the capital city of Batangas. The development narrates a story using two foreign terms: “Verismo,” which reflect reality or the essence of existence in art, and “Vivante,” which denotes the act of human living or engaging in experiences to achieve self-realization. Combining the two, “Verivante” is defined as simultaneous experience of live reality and idealistic human development.

The integration of local grandeur with global utilization in the design allows for appealing and fruitful Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) to diverse guests. In this structure, Buli weaving—the traditional produce of the city, is articulated together with wood, stone, and concrete. The spatial arrangement is straightforward, with the service areas being accessible yet hidden to guests. The expansive entrance and seven function areas are spacious and flexible for various types of events. The facility is equipped with several admin offices, parking, retail spaces, and service facilities, for assured excellent operational support.

02 Project on: 8th Semester
Supervision: Ar. Ankur Attri, PhD
Verivante Bazaar

04 Project on: 7th Semester

Supervision:Ar./EnP.MelodiaA.Ramos-Sampan,Phd.,UAP,PIEP

A MIXED-TYPE INCREMENTAL HOUSING IN ILOILO CITY

TECHNICAL DETAILS

LOT AREA: 200 ha.

LOCATION: Jaro District, Iloilo City

BUILDINGS: 1000+ Housing Units

APPROACH: Ecovillage and Incremental Approach

DESIGNED: Economic Single-Detached Units

TLA : 120 m2

TFA: 60.4465 m2

TGFA: 101.08 m2

CLNG PRICE: PHP 1,718,300.50 (Approx.)

In Tagalog, “silong” implies the act of seeking temporary refuge from the sun or rain. Just like how this space evolves into an integral component of the home, the housing embodies the principle of “half a better house” or incremental design, wherein its other half would achieve functionality over time. In this architectural design, one section has an open layout for optimal living comfort, while the other is readily expandable. The concept allows families to personalize spaces according to their needs, enhancing a sense of ownership. Moreover, it promotes a more financially sustainable extension project for homeowners by offering an existing structural base. In line with this, the tropical design strategy of “maaliwalas,” which advocates for natural material use (wood, stone, etc.) and passive cooling via strategic building envelope-to-space planning, is strongly implemented. This method prioritizes contextual factors like wind and indoor temperature, making it more eco-friendly and enhancing user comfort.

Cross (A-A) and Longitudinal (B-B) Sections

1:150MTS

A house is more importantly a home. Wake up and enjoy the warmth of mornings with carefully selected light nature-based materials.

05 Project on: 6th Semester

Supervision: Ar. Eurydice

UAP

SOCIALIZED AND ECONOMIC SUBDIVISION

TECHNICAL DETAILS

LOT AREA: 4.72 ha.

LOCATION: Meycauayan City, Bulacan

BUILDINGS: 364 Housing Units

APPROACH: Flexible Design

DESIGNED: Site Master Plan and Amenities

“Hiraya” aims to materialize families’ aspirations by allowing them to craft their narratives and pursue their ideal lives through Eco-Cultural Architecture and a Flexible Design Approach, while restoring essence of community, interconnectedness, and fulfillment. The design, in the greater sense, tackles fundamental issues on poverty and unsustainable development by offering a housing project with practical design solutions to enable low and middle-income households to reside peacefully and realize their human right to life.

Contextualization

The first and most critical concern is understanding the site’s features and constraints to plan on how to maximize its potential and resolve its weaknesses.

Accessibility

Roads to various points in the site branch out from the primary road (in violet) that runs from the main entry toward a second or service entry.

Composition

Sub-neighborhoods were planned to coherently zone the development. In yellow are the economic units, while in orange are the socialized units.

Functionality

Finally, the thematic housing and amenity designs were implemented, together with local code requirements (setbacks, open spaces, and greenery).

Parallel Trees

The strategic assembly of trees substantially aids in wind diversion, efficiently cooling the development. They also function as a natural barrier to heat and noise, which, along with their visual appeal, may boost land value.

Commercial Bazaar

A sizable commercial component that is available for rental on a scheme basis for business-oriented residents was incorporated into the development to provide an accessible source of fresh goods and revenue.

Utility Areas and MRF

Dedicated spaces for maintenance and trash segregation that are proximate to main vehicular circulation areas for ease of access.

Socialized Row Housing Units

A 36m2 TGFA quality compact dwelling showcasing harmonious and equal touch of wood, stone, and concrete, thereby a balanced building envelope. The environmentalist sense via design is promoted to small socialized families.

Composed of a jogging track and outdoor court (basketball, tennis, volleyball), this area situated at the heart of the site encourages a healthier lifestyle among residents by providing flexible spaces for physical recreation. Athletics Center

While standard vegetative elements, such as planting strips and mini-gardens, are already included in each property, pocket parks are designed at convenient spots to provide close communal spaces and areas of leisure. Pocket Parks

This building, erected near the center of the development, serves as a primary civic space and houses the homeowners’ association, gym, small theater, and various offices for the settlement’s operational functions. Clubhouse

Amphitheater

This outdoor cultural space is designed to increase dynamic public activities and engagement, whether via dances, acts, and performances, while also providing a landmark right upon arrival to the site.

Northeast Transport Terminal

Tricycle stop right upon main entry which can be operated by cooperatives for a more varied source of revenue and site accessibility.

Southwest Entrance and Exit

A secondary passage connecting to a tertiary road, to enable faster emergency response and maintenance to the development.

Agricultural House and Garden

A space dedicated to showcasing a unique form of nature-based leisure, this area is where resident, on a scheme-basic, can explore horticultural farming to make produce while boosting the sense of community.

One of the major amenities in the development, this serene landscaped space features a pond, relaxation areas, children’s playground, and the towering bamboo pavilion which can be utilized for functions and congregation. Park, Playground, and Bamboo Pavilion

Being situated near a river and recorded floodzones, this climate landscape solution were incorporated throughout the eastern portion of the site to concentrate stormwater runoff, while also serving as appealing form of greeneries. Bioswales

A 60m2 TGFA home that is the more premium dwellings in the site, and features flexibility through its modifiable planning configuration. Ventilation is maintained via a generous provision of openings, while still maintaining utmost privacy. Economic Single-Attached Housing Units

Site Axonometric Diagram

Conveniently located on Saluysoy Road (a major road), the main entry is designed to evoke a sense of being one with nature and a departure from the bustle of the city toward the tranquility of the home. Main Entry and Exit

Project on: 7th Semester

Supervision:Ar./EnP.MelodiaA.Ramos-Sampan,Phd.,UAP,PIEP

A PROPOSED BEACHFRONT FIVE-STAR HOTEL RESORT COMPLEX IN ALBAY

TECHNICAL DETAILS

LOT AREA: 2 ha.

LOCATION: Maonon, Ligao City, Albay

BUILDINGS: 4 Major Buildings + Villas

APPROACH: Hedonistic Sustainability

DESIGNED: Master Plan and Main Hotel Building

Magayon Hideaway reimagines sustainable tourism by integrating luxury with a profound appreciation for nature, culture, and community. Situated in the pristine coastal region of Albay province, the architecture celebrates natural Bicolano marvel while alleviating the adverse effects of tourism. The complex utilizes a low-impact development approach that aligns with the local ecosystem, employing locally sourced materials, renewable energy, and advanced water management systems to reduce its environmental footprint.

The concept is inspired by indigenous folklore, integrating traditional forms with contemporary beauty. With the organic shapes and spatial configurations, guests are enveloped in a sensory nature-based feel. Moreover, the hotel and resort promote inclusivity by involving local people in employment opportunities, cultural exhibitions, and eco-tourism initiatives. This solution mitigates over-tourism by shifting travel patterns and exemplifies high-quality, environmentally conscious hospitality. This five-star hospitality establishes an enduring destination that enhances the national tourism sector and bequeaths a lasting legacy for posterity.

Magayon Hideaway’s site planning employs hedonistic sustainability and the barefoot concept to achieve a seamless integration of ecological responsibility and human enjoyment. The design promotes a continuous relationship with nature, emphasizing sustainable practices that enrich the guest experience instead of limiting it. Wandering pathways traverse meticulously designed hard and softscapes, encouraging exploration and discovery while fostering relaxation and well-being. Structures are strategically placed to enhance rather than hinder the natural topography, guaranteeing clear views and maintaining the site’s biological integrity. With various textures and materials—a tactile encounter, guests are encouraged to adopt a more reflective pace.

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Collaboration: Tabuena, Manalo, Tan, and Antone (2023)

Project on: 5th Semester

Supervision:Ar./EnP.MelodiaA.Ramos-Sampan,Phd.,UAP,PIEP

A PROPOSED THERAPEUTIC & WELLNESS CENTER IN BACOOR CITY, CAVITE

TECHNICAL DETAILS

LOT AREA: 7,268.37 m2

LOCATION: Bayanan, Bacoor City, Cavite

BUILDINGS: 7 Major Buildings

APPROACH: Holistic and Biophilic Design

DESIGNED: Master Plan and Buildings

There are Accessibility Law-compliant buildings, and then there are universally-designed buildings. Universal design is not just making something merely accessible, however it is the addition of features that make it accessible to people with a wide range of physical impairments not covered by Accessibility Law. Thus, it should really be implanted with the design at its core. It is in the core of this architecture to create a center for therapy that can also be a community space, made with universal design. All to showcase the issue surrounding the PWDs and perhaps be a place that removes the stigma of ‘separation’ between the disabled and those that are not.

Moreover, rapid boom of Bacoor City, why not integrate the sense of empathy with its identity as well? It is therefore aimed for this architecture to be a prototype of a healing space that is not restrictive but instead open to all; a space with true inclusivity wherein anyone can go and not be judged, and a space that resonates its meaning to everyone. This is all for the vision of creating a true active interaction and integration of PWDs with those that don’t have any disabilities, and ultimately the vision of embedding empathy to the city’s culture.

Wind Direction

The Southwest monsoon or the summer breeze, delivers warm air and substantial rainfall from April to October. From thereon, milder, drier northeast winds at 13 km/h are experienced.

Bacoor is situated in area of minimal elevation and slope, at less than 0.5%. It is located in the west monsoon forest zone, which facilitates the development of tropical rainforests. The area encompasses nine distinct species of mangrove, covering 17.53 ha. The diverse forest land of Cavite supports a variety of plant species, including bamboo, which is among the most prevalent forest products in the region.

Land Use

The development is located within the Bacoor Government Center. The area around the complex consists of a Low-Density Residential (R-1) Zone and a Medium-Density Residential (R-2) Zone. The majority of land in Bacoor is allocated for residential purposes, whereas commercial spaces are typically located on both sides of major thoroughfares.

Bacoor is renowned for its primary aquatic product—oyster—commonly referred to as Talaba. This constitutes a significant livelihood source for residents in the northern area adjacent to Manila Bay. Furthermore, The city is the “Marching Band Capital of the Philippines,” which underscores the significance of the drum as a cultural symbol. The two cultures are expressed through the roof design, building curvatures, and central space, highlighting a site that resonates deeply with local users. FORM CONCEPT

The development is predominantly bordered by open grasslands. However, the south side is where the institutional buildings are located (City Hall, Evacuation Center, and sports gymnasium). To the west is a manmade catchment. The Vittoria Subdivision and NOMO Mall are situated in the northeast direction. The views of trees are predominantly located on the eastern side.

Road Network

The development is located near the newly built four-lane NOMO Avenue, which connects Las Piñas to Bacoor and Imus via the Cavite Bridge. From the east, the road connects to Molino Road for north-south access between Zapote and Dasmariñas, then to Bacoor Boulevard, a major thoroughfare in the area. Niog Road links major roads to residential streets.

The proposed development features a site planning that organizes various therapy and wellness blocks around an central communal space. Its division delineates three fundamental interconnected domains of the human being: the mind, the body, and the soul. Consequently, three primary blocks have been established: the mind wellness block, which addresses mental spheres; the body wellness block, which focuses on kinesthetics and physical activity; and the soul wellness block, which aims to enhance one’s humanly existence.

CORE DESIGN CONCEPTS

Holistic Design

An architecture that goes beyond the main problem is critical to ensuring future-proofing and sustainability. In the context of this development, further solutions to environmental difficulties (e.g., lack of natural spaces) and economic concerns (e.g., job security) were implemented through the incorporation of relevant, well-designed places.

Biophilic Design

Human’s close and unique association with nature, proven to enhance well-being, was incorporated into the development by means of designing in systematic coordination with natural elements. Color scheme is neutral, materials are locally sourced, views open to landscape, and interior spaces are strived to be one with the outside.

Primary Road
Bacoor Blvd. Secondary Road
Rd.
Oyster as the primary produce of the city
Simplification of the shell and application of curvature to plan and roof
Articulation of drum’s soundwave ripple

08

Project on: 7th Semester

Supervision:

RENOVATION THROUGH ADVANCED BUILDING TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS

Successful commercial leasing means standing out in the eyes of prospective tenants and eventually to their prospective customers. Architectural design can greatly direct this because the physical manifestation of space can immediately create a distinct impression and association on people, possibly establishing patrons.

The proposed renovation is at God’s Grace Building, which is located northbound on Bacoor Boulevard, Brgy. Molino 2, City of Bacoor in Cavite. It is a three-storey rectangular commercial building containing a total of twelve leasable units. Just like its neighboring establishments, the building is observed to be primarily occupied for the longest time by industrial-type retail. The site, being in a huge thoroughfare, has excellent potential to be further activated and be the center of attraction, especially given that there are a considerable number of populations residing proximate to the building.

Ordered by batch from a manufacturer and subsequently cut into appropriate sizes, this cladding was installed by utilizing cement-based adhesives. It boosts the industrial sense of the building while giving it a contemporary look.

Curtain Wall System

This breathes new life to the second floor of the building by means of fully enclosing sing it indoors and creating a more uniform look. A panelized system is included with operable windows to still allow for natu- ral air to flow inside, if warranted.

Tensile Membrane

This imposing addition to the building’s form ensures that it will be seen even from afar, thereby attracting visitors, all while practically functioning as roofing so that it can be used for commercial purposes as well instead of just being barren.

Existing Structure

Proposed New Design of the Structure
Brick Wall Cladding
KEY BUILDING TECHNOLOGY FEATURES

Existing Front Elevation

Proposed Front Elevation

The renovation specifically includes the enclosing of second floor balcony to be an interior hallway so as to prevent direct heat and to make the look of the building more contemporary and varied. This is done by installing a curtain wall system that also has operable portions to still allow for ventilation. Another part is the installation of PVC Coated Polyester Fabric Tensile Membrane on the roof deck, in the form of conical, hypar or anticlastic shapes, to make the buildind stand out among its neighboring establishments, while creating the possibility of using the roof deck and its adjoining room for various usage like food retail, wherein the congregation of prospective customers will be encouraged. Lastly, the lighter inclusions to this renovation is the installation of brick wall cladding and repainting of the exterior portion of the building to package its brand new look.

Tensile Membrane Mechanism Detail NTS
Curtain Wall Detail NTS

Project on: 3rd Semester

Supervision:

A LIVING AREA REVAMP TOWARDS THE ART DECO PERIOD STYLE

The Art Deco era was an age of true extravagance, indulgence, and wealth. It is a statement embodied from an architectural sense, like that of the Empire State Building—a gleaming icon of the time—down to the aesthetics of interior spaces. The term “Art Deco” is short for “Art Décoratif,” and it came into prominence in the 1920s. With the economic and cultural boom of the era, these together formed the “Roaring ’20s.” Coinciding with the 100th anniversary of its rise, the designer sought to reimagine a 17.46m² residential living area to the alluring grandeur of Art Deco period.

Hemmingway Picture Light

The designer strategically executed the reimagining of this space into a period style by utilizing essential attributes of this era’s architectural interiors: prevalent features include geometric patterns and streamlined forms, metallic materials such as gold, bronze, and stainless steel, bold shapes, zigzag, jagged, and occasionally curved line patterns, and animal prints, notably those of zebras. The furniture selection also deliberately evokes the 1920s aesthetic while being integrated into a contemporary design via the use of modern decorative lighting solutions.

Project on: Architectural Internship 1

A special project undertaking by the designer during his Architectural Internship 1 was the 115-page partial proposal for the adaptive re-use of Santa Mesa’s Carriedo Mansion—a historic structure that is in the risk of decay and demolition. Supervised by the Historic Preservation Division of National Historic Commission of the Philippines, the designer and his team participated in sustainable conservation lectures, conducted an extensive research, case studies, site analyses, architectural documentation and condition assessments, production of as-built drawings, and pitching of restoration and conservation proposal to the University and Commission’s administration.

Supervision: Ar. Ma. Luisa M. Valerio

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