The Public Public School
San Juan City 2020 30,200 sqm
Thesis Project, Presented at the UP Arki Thesis Redux: Reimagining the City, 2021
Public schools, as vital parts of our cities, tend to have good sites, public transport accessibility, and community connection. However, these prime locations are typically only used for 7 to 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. This leaves this area largely underutilized for around 75% of the week. And in the case of a very small, highly urbanized city like San Juan, where buildable land is scarce, this is wasted space and potential.
The limited space in San Juan City, which for the longest time caused congestion in its classrooms, has prompted the densification of its school buildings and sites as with two of its recently built elementary school buildings. These adopted a vertical form, maximizing the lot area it sits on, with the school’s “open spaces” relocated to the top. Seeing this viability and inevitability, six more public schools out of the 12 total in the city are currently being partly redeveloped or entirely reconstructed following this same approach.
Three other issues that could be connected to the city’s limited land area—its lack of parks and open spaces, a neglected City Library, and the expansion of mixed-use zoning—push us to reexamine how public buildings such as schools can be rethought and redesigned so that they could maximize the potential of their prime sites and better serve the city’s ever-growing population. Which brings us to the question: Can we make the public school more public?
Design Considerations
The attempt to combine the public school with public parks and spaces is kind of a push and pull between their affinities and conflicts that both need to be enhanced or addressed.
The design sought to connect people with one another and with their environment; integrate and mesh the various spaces together while maximizing benefits and minimizing conflicts; and separate spaces through control and security achieved via design, zoning, and scheduling.
The project site is the Pinaglabanan Elementary School complex, right at the civic core of San Juan, adjacent to the City Hall and the historic Pinaglabanan Shrine. It was chosen as it was the last sprawling school site in the city and had great potential to bridge the gap between the Shrine and the Mini-Park and connect the surrounding neighborhood.
The city’s sole public senior high school crammed on-site in a borrowed building, the barangay livelihood stalls wedged at one corner of the site, and the City Library hidden within the City Hall would all benefit from being integrated into the redevelopment of this prime site.
The resulting design was highly informed by its context and aspirations, from its massing down to its intricacies and details. Decisions such as preserving on-site vegetation or construction phasing that allows continuous usage of the site worked toward a responsive, context-driven development that hopes to become an integral part of the community.
LINEAR PARKS & SHARED SPACES VOIDS & OUTDOOR CLASSROOMStoSanJuanScienceHighSchool(130m)SanJuanPolice andFireDepartment(300m)SantolanTownPlaza(420m) GreenhillsShoppingCenter(2.2km)
OUTDOOR CLASSROOM
C Parts of the linear park have been redesigned to be pocket play areas in the elementary school.
D The Senior HS library is connected to the larger resource collection of the City Library via a controlled access point.
E Voids between the rotated classroom volumes allow air
OUTDOOR CLASSROOM/ SKYPARK
flow and improve air circulation in the interior of the plan.
F Industrial Arts/Home Econ spaces were placed near the lower assembly area in anticipation of potential programs where these spaces can be shared with the public through livelihood and skills workshops.
Fourth Floor Plan
shaded areas are shared to the public outside of school hours
- gates closed after school hours
- gates closed during school hours
A Classrooms are rotated 90 degrees at an interval to introduce voids where air can flow and improve air circulation at the interior of the plan. This also created more shade and added visual interest on the facade.
B Room walls in some parts are angled to break the straight flow of the hallways.
C Elementary classrooms are zoned and grouped by year level to promote interaction and sharing among student peers.
D The SkyPark is an elevated linear park that runs along the front of the development. The unshaded area in the middle is the public portion accessible during the entirety of the park’s operating hours. The shaded portions are shared with the public after school hours.
Time-Sharing
To allow the coexistence and integration of the public school and public space/park programs on the site, a setup where spaces are shared but only during certain times of the day or week was necessary
The site’s main facilities are open within a 14-hour window from 6 AM to 8 PM that is divided into a school-hours mode where some school spaces and facilities (outlined blue) are secured solely for the students’ use, and an after-school-hours mode including weekends where gates (black) are opened and these school spaces are shared to the public (outlined red).
To maintain the permeability of the site, most of the ground level, including the commercial and community spaces along the important pedestrian axes (yellow arrows) will remain accessible to the public even outside the operating hours
LINEAR PARK DURING SCHOOL HOURS BASKETBALL COURT DURING SCHOOL HOURS (WEEKDAYS) LINEAR PARK AFTER SCHOOL HOURS BASKETBALL COURT AFTER SCHOOL HOURS (WEEKENDS) AFTER SCHOOL HOURS DURING SCHOOL HOURSSection 2
OUTDOOR CLASSROOM/ SKYPARK
(clockwise from top left) The new City Library was given a more accessible location within the redevelopment to better serve its target users.
The entry to the City Library gives a peek of the tree-covered courtyard. The steps lead towards the SkyPark on top.
The linear park that leads to the shared covered court has integrated tactile play areas.
Two-storey “voids” were spread across the classrooms to provide outdoor learning and social spaces that also improved air flow through the hallways.
CITY LIBRARYConclusion
The Public Public School was born from the idea of integrating identified public services and spaces that were desperately needed by the city into the existing public elementary school program to maximize the potential of the well-located and connected project site
The result was a school that allowed the public through the previously fenced-off site, improving mobility and pedestrian experience. Not only did the resulting redevelopment provide the necessary high quality school spaces needed on site, it also reclaimed and gave back space that would benefit the community and the city as a whole.
All in all, through the various design solutions applied, the Public Public School was able to reclaim more than 14,374 square meters of space for public use, even larger than the 1.34 hectare site itself, to be shared with all San Juaneños in the form of open spaces and parks, learning-support facilities, as well as recreational and commercial opportunities.
In the end, this design is just one of the many forms and iterations the Public Public School can take, as its real goal was to raise the question as to how the humble public school could be reshaped to help make our cities more livable. Other
versions of the Public Public School could cater to disaster resilience, livelihood training, or just the simple need for alternative social spaces and “third places”.
Given how ubiquitous yet underutilized public school sites are in our cities, not just in San Juan, transforming them could ensure that they remain integral parts of the urban fabric and life, albeit one that is more integrated, open, and enriching.
The Arroceros Link
Ermita, Manila 2018 18,700 sqm
Mini-Thesis Project
The Arroceros district was once the lustrous gem and one of the most important districts of Manila. However, it has fallen victim to rapid urbanization and poor planning. With the urban infrastructure introduced to the district, the once flourishing heart of the city became subdivided and fragmented. Despite these, the district still possesses a lot of potential, given the rehabilitation of the Metropolitan Theater.
With this, how can we design a development that could tie togetherafragmenteddistrict?Howcanwedesignabuilding that can make a forgotten district relevant once again? How can we design a structure that can serve the current needs of thepeoplearoundit?
Establish and create important links
Revive and spark renewed interest
Encourage engagement through activities
Firstly, to facilitate the rehabilitation, we have to link up the fragmented district. That is, to link up the Met with its context; to seamlessly link the various modes of transportation within the site; and to facilitate connections that shall strengthen the district’s significance.
Next, with the rehabilitation of the Met acting as a catalyst, the development should complement and amplify this renewed interest in the district. It will remain relevant with the introduction of cultural, social, and economic points of interest. Lastly, spaces where people can congregate, meet, and mingle will reinforce the links and points of interest made. By creating an engaging environment, the development becomes a relevant part of its various users’ daily lives
The development sets itself up as an important hub within the district, linking up cultural, educational, and transport facilities. The building is connected to the southbound transport terminal via an elevated link that ends at a sloped linear park by a jeepney/bus stop. The entire link almost encircles the Met and provides a great location to appreciate the beauty of the Art Deco structure.
Macro Site Development
The Arroceros district is home to and surrounded by a lot of cultural and historic treasures such as the Metropolitan Theater, the Post Office Building, Manila City Hall, the walled city of Intramuros, and many more culturally relevant and important structures.
Geographically, the district is found at the heart of the City of Manila. It is where many modes of public transport
intersect, from jeepneys, city and provincial buses, FXs, and even the LRT line. It is a busy interchange where people from all walks of life pass by and go. It is also a rich and important educational hub, surrounded by numerous universities and learning institutions. It is also just a ride away from the even larger Taft Avenue and Sampaloc University Belts.
Thus, the Arroceros Link, a redevelopment of the current Park n Ride Terminal, is envisioned as a multi-purpose hub to aid the revitalization of the district.
It will be the new home of the City Library and Museo ng Maynila, which are both due for much-needed rehabilitation. These will be complemented by a Learning Commons, which will serve as a mostly 24/7 coworking space where students can find a safe and conducive place to study, mingle, and collaborate. It will also have plenty of income-generating spaces to ensure the longevity of the project. The Arroceros Link aims to be all these while functioning as an effective transport and transit hub for this bustling heart of Manila.
Design Strategies
Promote walking by providing covered walkways and transit points. With commuters and visitors shielded from the harsh sun or rain, they are able to appreciate more of the sights and happenings around them.
Provide clear and legible links between important nodes such as the Met, Mehan Garden, and the transport links. These will become axes along which points of interest showcasing the culture and history of Manila can be placed.
Ensure spaces and facilities would accommodate and be accessible to all kinds of visitors, most especially Manileños. Design spaces that will be inviting for all people to learn, meet, and connect with one another.
Design the building to complement the Manila Metropolitan Theater, its architecture, significance, and functions. Aim to preserve sightlines to the Met and become a viewing point to appreciate its beauty.
Create a seamless and secure transfer from one mode of transport to another and become an efficient transit hub and jump-off point providing mobility for visitors and commuters and aiding the revitalization of the district.
Design spaces to be flexible and adaptable to accommodate a wide group of people. Design should highlight the culture and history of Manila and facilitate learning and the sharing of ideas.
Facade & Massing
The massing is an assembly of interlocking volumes that recede towards the northwest corner of the site, revealing the Metropolitan Theater as people approach it along Padre Burgos Avenue. The west facade is clad in perforated panels with a pattern design lifted directly from those found at the Met. This creates an elegant and understated form that distinguishes itself but still relates to and respects its context. The north side has floor-to-ceiling windows allowing for panoramic views of the Met and the city beyond.
LIGHTING LAYOUT (4F, CROPPED)
POWER LAYOUT (4F, CROPPED)
WATER SUPPLY LAYOUT (4F, CROPPED)
SANITARY LAYOUT (4F, CROPPED)
Over the past two decades, the Philippines has endured hundreds of natural calamities, making it the fourth most disaster-prone country in the world. There is a tremendous need for a fast and systematic response in times of disaster. Thus, EXO-MOD was designed in an attempt to produce a disaster-response module that is robust, adaptable, and easily-transportable.
The module’s strength lies in an assembly of two foldable A-frames made from pipes joined together with locking joints and fittings. This triangular frame not only gave the design the needed structural integrity, but also its distinctive form.
For a lighter total weight and ease of transport, tarpaulin fabric was used to cover the modules. Inflatable and collapsible water containers were used for a gravity-fed water system at the toilet and kitchen modules. Parts were designed to be easily mass produced and used repetitively within the design. To transport the modules, they were designed to fit and collapse into flatpacks that could, in the hardest of circumstances, be hand carried to serve affected communities.
Design Features
Two A-Frame assemblies are connected to form the main frame of the modules. The triangular shape not only needs less material, but is also naturally balanced and stable The counter and lavatory modules are made from reinforced plastic and could be folded flat and easily transported Collapsible water storage containers are also used. To keep the module lightweight, it is clad with a durable tarpaulin fabric that can be printed on with a distinctive Unilever branding and be easily changed or mended if needed.Soup Kitchen & Water Station Assembly Process
1 5 9
Unpack the flat-packs carefully. Unfold the 2 A-Frame steel structural assemblies.
Attach the six (6) serving countertop modules onto the outer edges of the structural steel skeleton.
2 6
Connect loose steel GI pipes supports to complete the structural steel skeleton. Anchor the steel skeleton if needed.
Attach all necessary plumbing connections. Place the four (4) Pure-It units on the serving countertop and attach necessary water source lines.
Insert kitchen sink module and attach faucet module onto the kitchen counter module. Assemble also the intended cooking facility.
3 7 11
Slide in the floor modules into their respective positions. Four (4) floor modules for the Soup Kitchen and Water Station Module.
Attach the 3 sets of overhead water tank supports and braces to the structural steel skeleton.
4 8
Attach the two (2) kitchen countertop modules onto the middle portion of the structural steel skeleton.
Place the three (3) clean water reservoir tanks above and the two (2) graywater tank below the kitchen countertop module.
Unroll and install the fabric roofing. Attach it to the top apex of the structure and assemble steel supports at the other end. Steel pipe supports can secure the fabric roof to the ground.
Attach the triangular fabric cladding on the two ends of the structure. A corner of the installed fabric can be easily removed to serve as entry points to the module.
URBAN AGRICULTURE
Designed as the main component that establishes permaculture and financial sustainability in the community.
MARKET
Residents may choose to sell their crops in the market plaza that also serves the adjacent communities.
TRANSPORT TERMINAL
The transport terminal conveniently connects the community to the city and provides a source of livelihood for some residents.
BRGY 8
Tondo, Manila
2016 2.77 hectares
Entrant, Int’l Tropical Architecture Design Competition in collaboration with Micah Maramag & JB Cunanan
The various programs and projects enacted to uplift the situation of informal settler families in Metro Manila prove to be futile as there are more cases of failed relocations than successful ones. With this, BRGY 8 endeavors to offer architectural solutions to the identified problems faced by relocated urban dwellers.
The proposal aims to rethink the existing social housing and relocation schemes to be more humane, responsive, and sustainable. Its general design structure is founded on the philosophy of prioritizing basic human needs, acknowledging physical and human context, and optimizing space for the best human experience.
Guided by a framework (above) founded on the idea of designing to empower the people, the design focused on mostly passive and thoughtful interventions that hope to provide an environment that is conducive to growth, selfdetermination, and community building
These include priority for pedestrians and public transportation, provision of community spaces for learning, leisure, and commerce, opportunities for self-generated microindustries, use of alternative building materials, an adaptable and sensible unit design, as well as, urban agriculture and landscaping integrated into a passive sewage treatment system.
Civic
ROOFTOP
Besides being alternative spaces for urban agriculture, roofdecks are also an extension of the civic spaces.
The vision for BRGY 8 is to be a model community for sustainability, self-governance, and collective action achieved through a democratic approach to designing social housing and relocation. It will be a community that will cultivate its own livelihood, culture, and identity; a community of empowered self-determined people, capable and motivated to raise themselves and each other out of poverty.
WORKSHOP
URBAN AGRICULTURE
Vegetation map
The mostly native species were chosen for their special characteristics which make them appropriate for certain locations and purposes.
Tropical considerations
The buildings are configured such that ventilation is maximized and the Venturi effect is achieved. Fins are applied along corridors parallel to wind directions.
Network of public spaces
The open spaces are designed to foster connections both within the community itself and between the community and its context.
Zoning of spaces
Spaces are zoned according to its need for exposure. Civic spaces are placed within the enclosure while the farm and utilities are placed outside of it.
Bioretention system
A landscaping system is introduced to help collect storm water, and divert intense flood water back into the estero, therefore protecting the community.
BASKETBALL COURTS spaces are allotted to foster and emphasize a sense of community within the residents.Designed for a quaint family of four, Bahay na Buhay is situated on a 400 sqm sloping site located in Capitol Homes, Quezon City. The architect-artist parents and their two young kids requested a house with open and lively spaces that foster interaction between family members as well as a home office and a screening room.
As the final project for the tropical design class, the exercise called for the thoughtful use of passive and active design strategies to allow the house to respond to the climatic conditions of the site. These design decisions are summed up into the three main ideas that define the “Bahay na Buhay”.
Open
• The house is filled with life through the introduction of a courtyard at the heart of the home and various gardens that allow everyone to connect easily with nature.
• The use of wall planters reduces the amount of light and heat entering the west side of the family area and enhances the air quality inside these gathering spaces.
• The use of large sliding doors and jalousie windows blurs the line between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Bahay na Buhay
Quezon City
2017 600 sqm
Tropical House Design
in collaboration with Gaby Fernandez
Dynamic
• The green courtyard serves as an area for gatherings and activities that promote family bonding and acts as a space for the children to play and be active.
• The movement of the users along the highly visible circulation areas creates a vibrant dwelling.
• Maximizing the cross ventilation through the spaces inside the house enhances the air quality, promotes frequent air circulation, and maintains it at a comfortable temperature.
Adaptable
• The house is able to change and adapt according to the needs and desires of its users through its many operable doors, windows, and sun shading devices, as well as its open layout and flexible spaces.
• Spaces were zoned so that different activities could be accommodated at the same time.
• Provisions were made to anticipate the growth and changing needs of the family.
• The large south-facing roofs provide the optimal location for solar energy harvesting.
A The courtyard at the heart of the home binds all the spaces together and brings in light and air into these spaces.
B Sliding doors with operable louvers installed throughout the home can be configured depending on the time of the day or the weather turning the house into a breathing and dynamic organism that is able to adapt to any circumstance.
C The kitchen, family room, and lanai form a spacious family focused area bathed in light and natural ventilation.
D All the rooms on the second level are connected via a wide hallway, providing an airy passageway for cross ventilation and protecting the rooms from the harsh sun from the south.
E The “wind scoop” is an architectural and functional feature that enhances the circulation of wind along the hallway.
Prioritizing the unimpeded flow of air through the various spaces of the home allows for effective passive cooling, which removes the need for air conditioning. Ceiling fans installed aid the movement of air.
The effectiveness of the sun shading was demonstrated via a simulated shadow test on a scale model of the house. JUN 22 (9AM) MAR 21 (12NN)Commissioned & Other Works
Black Box
Cavite
2018 525 sqm
Within a 25x21x11 meter space at a proposed mixed-use development, this multi-function auditorium with a capacity of 420 seats can accommodate other configurations and events via the retractable seating system that was incorporated into the design.
Cultural Center Interiors
Rizal 2017 995 sqm
The project called for the design of various interior spaces (library, auditorium, restrooms) of a proposed cultural center. Guided by specific pegs and requirements provided by the client, a distinct design that reflects the aspirations of the development was achieved.
Design from Pegs, Interiors, SketchUp, VRayLights & Sound
To help the client with their proposals, visualizations were produced to illustrate the various lighting effects and installations that they would implement for each project. Images were manipulated, and 3D models were sometimes made to present the client’s vision.
Various 2020Photo Manipulation, 3D Modeling, Photoshop, SketchUpVillas
The client required detailed, as-built exterior 3D models of various villas that were used for their landscape architecture projects. Simple floor plans and actual photos of the structures were used as references in the production of these 3D models.
UAE 2022 -Google Earth
Online 2011 - 2014
Contributed and uploaded more than forty (40) 3D models of buildings and skyscrapers found in Metro Manila that were displayed within Google Earth’s 3D Buildings layer.Hobby Works
Various 2015 -
A handful of personal, hobby design studies of different building typologies at various levels of detail and completion. These are typically inspired by unique site constraints, distinctive architectural features, or envisioned proposals for actual locations.
Graphic Design Works
2015 - 2018
Publicity Material Design, Illustration, Photoshop, InDesign
A selection of graphic design works, such as informational or publicity materials and digital illustrations, produced for event promotion and information dissemination. These include the conceptualization of a distinct and creative look for each event.
Matá is a multi-platform awareness and advocacy campaign by UP Task Force Arki that aims to shed light on relevant and timely issues in architecture which I helped spearhead in 2017.
These are some of the publicity and informational materials that were posted and shared online as well as displayed in physical exhibits.
This brochure and tour map for Rizal Park, located in the City of Manila, was designed as part of my NSTP (National Service Training Program) course at the National Parks Development Committee. Its main feature is a cute and colorful hand-drawn illustration of the park showing its various landmarks, attractions, and buildings.