UNVEILING THE TRUE IDENTITY OF FILIPINO ARCHITECTURE - Have we really found it?

When we consider architecture, some well-known styles, like Gothic, Baroque, or Modern, often pop up. But what about Filipino architecture? Does it really exist as a unique style, or is it just a mix of influences from other cultures? The reality is that, Filipino architecture is much more than just a combination of styles—it continuously shows the Philippines' deep history, cultural variety, and one-of-a-kind surroundings. In this article, we will look into how Filipino architecture has evolved and answer the question: is there truly such a thing as Filipino architecture? 

Indigenous and Vernacular Architecture 

I have always been mesmerized by the concept of the Ifugao House, to the extent that even by its appearance, it gives me the impression that these houses might have been the very first houses built by our ancestors even before the Nipa Hut, or “Bahay Kubo.”

Ifugao House

Oh well, I should say I was really mesmerized because since I started writing this article, I have already developed that kind of strong urge in my mind, and so, I was eventually prompted to do some research about the Ifugao House right away. I told myself, why not?

As usual, I started looking at Wikipedia. But wait, it appears like Wikipedia only provides information about Ifugao as a place, but what about the house? I found one small picture with a short caption. And so I went on with other websites but unfortunately, I was not able to find the right information for the purpose that I am trying to point out. So I went on until I reached my last resort...I dug some research work of some universities instead, and voila! I think I found one that may help. There you go... oh wow, this one came from Ifugao State University itself. How about that? (please see citation).

Here's an excerpt from the report:

 

“The Ifugao build their native houses in villages or near the rice terraces. It is unique from the common “bahay kubo” of the Filipinos. Guyjoco (2017) describes the Ifugao House a “no-nail house” which plays a great role in Pinoy pride. 

 

The Ifugao “Bale” or Native House is said to be the “first pre-fabricated house in the world,” according to renowned anthropologist Otley Beyer. It has been the subject of many scholarly articles as it is considered to be one of the most ingenious and nearly perfect architectural constructs made by man. This type of dwelling does not make use of nails thus it is also called the “No-Nail" house, The house can be dismantled and transferred to another place of choice without destroying any part of it.” 

 

Wow! Aren’t you amazed by that? Well, I am. I am a big fan of Ifugao House by the way. It’s not that I came to know these facts for the very first time, but this information even gives me an early hint as to what I am trying to point out. But we'll get there. It's just too early to conclude our discussion yet, so we need to keep on digging. Please stay with me mates. Let me cover "Bahay Kubo" as well. My apologies to its supporters for the delay. Here’s some information for you:  

 

Since Bahay Kubo is very typical, I will just describe it based on familiarity. Bahay Kubo is a house made of a nipa roof, hence from where the English name “Nipa Hut” was derived, has a steeply pitched roof, open windows, and a “silong” or a space underneath for storage, ventilation, and small livestock. It is constructed using bamboo, wood, and nipa leaves for roof materials with a sustainable design that is inexpensive and can withstand natural disasters. Since it’s made of bamboo, the connections are usually tied up with strong tying materials, which makes it different from the Ifugao House, where they use no-nail joineries. Bahay Kubo is difficult to dismantle, which makes it difficult to transfer to another place. It usually requires a “Bayanihan” or collective effort by the neighborhood. 

Bayanihan

 

In addition, Bahay Kubo has a lot of resemblance to our neighboring Asian countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, etc., and also Kubo was named after the Spanish word Cubo, which means cube, or a square room or space, not to mention its evolution into “Bahay na Bato,” again, another Spanish influence.

 

The Influence of Colonial History 

Bahay na Bato

I already have started mentioning the Spanish influence on "Bahay na Bato", but aside from that, the Spanish also introduced Mediterranean, Roman, Gothic, Baroque, and Neo-classical styles, such as those in the churches, government buildings, and some houses of prominent families. Ironically, the term "ancestral house" nowadays is usually attributed to the old Spanish-influenced houses. But if we should go deeper, I believe the pre-colonial houses deserve accreditation as well.

During the American colonialization, buildings and bridges within the Metropolitan Manila area were modernized. However, the Japanese did not have much influence when it comes to architecture. Perhaps a few buildings, but we couldn’t find a trace nowadays. 

 

The Fusion of Styles: A Unique Identity 

Modern House Design in the Philippines

If we look at the current design trend, we can find architecture in the Philippines as a blend of influences, creating a hybrid identity. This fusion of cultural, historical, and modern elements contributes to a distinctive Filipino architectural style. Modern Filipino architecture combines elements of local tradition and international trends. We have prominent architects like Juan Nakpil, Leandro Locsin, and Francisco Manosa who have contributed to the evolution of Filipino design. 

 

Sustainability and Local Materials 

Amidst the growing trend of sustainable architecture in the Philippines, little did we know that the subject of sustainability is certainly not new. It actually originated way back from the pre-colonial era, and probably even earlier, perhaps to the time when our real ancestors designed and built the Ifugao house. Then, followed by the Bahay Kubo, all of which use local materials like wood, bamboo, and nipa palm to create eco-friendly designs. A prominent Filipino Architect, Francisco Manosa is very well known for reviving the use of local and indigenous materials in his projects. He even took advantage of the versatility of the coconut tree, as his ingenuity is evident in his design of the famous Coconut Palace. Other Indigenous materials available locally are rattan and abaca, which are also very useful in making furniture, and capiz, which is renowned for sliding windows, amongst many others.

 

FINAL THOUGHTS

Filipino Architecture – An ongoing quest for its true identity

Filipino architecture is not a singular, static style but a dynamic, evolving expression of Filipino ingenuity, history, and culture. We could always look at the continuing growth and innovation in Filipino architecture, but we also need to reflect on our past. If our aim is to define the true identity of Filipino Architecture, we need to dig deeper into its history, just like tracing our family roots. For me, I would consider the deepest root starts with the Ifugao House, the Bahay Kubo and other traditional indigenous houses, and so on and so forth. If we could learn the culture of each ethnic group in our society, and find out why and how they came up with their design ideas and carry on with how they evolved throughout the centuries, only then we could clearly unveil the right criterion in determining the true identity of Filipino architecture. 

 

Joey Castaneda

Architect

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CITATIONS: 

THE IFUGAO FOLK ARCHITECTURE AND HOUSE CONSTRUCTION, research work from Ifugao State University, Sept 2022 

https://www.scribd.com/document/623139778/IfugaoNativeHouse 

PHOTO ATTRIBUTIONS:

Ifugao House: Ranieljosecastaneda, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Bayanihan: Bonvallite, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Bahay na Bato: Ramon FVelasquez, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Modern House: PaulGorduiz106, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Cover Photo and others: Royalty free photos by Pexel and Pixabay

7 BEST ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES IN KITCHEN ESSENTIALS, useful tips towards sustainable living

The center of any house is the kitchen. It's where we gather to feed ourselves and our families, but it also has the potential to negatively affect our ecosystem. Many people are seeking methods to lessen their impact on the environment as climate change continues to influence our lives—beginning with eco-friendly cooking in the kitchen!

The 21st-century kitchen is full of all kinds of great stuff for making incredible meals, but all that great stuff is a lot of…stuff, and it’s important to consider the impact certain kitchen items have on the earth. There are lots of ways to make a kitchen product more eco-friendly, whether that’s by designing a reusable version of a disposable item, getting rid of hazardous materials, or applying a more efficient manufacturing method. We have searched for several eco-friendly kitchen products and materials and chose the best seven switches we could make to create a more sustainable and eco-friendly kitchen.

1. SWITCH FROM PAPER TOWELS TO REUSABLE KITCHEN CLOTH

By switching out single-use paper towels with reusable cloths, you can start an eco-friendly kitchen makeover in one of the most straightforward and cheap ways possible. One of the best products of this kind if you ever decided to find one are those that are created from bleached or unbleached cotton, which is soft and absorbent.

Another type of similar kind is the Swedish dishcloths, which were created by a Swedish engineer in 1949 and are "superabsorbent." They are constructed of "100% naturally biodegradable cellulose or a combination of wood pulp and renewable cotton," dry rapidly, and can be washed. Users treat them exactly the same way as paper towels and say they reduced the amount of paper towels by at least 80%.

2. SWITCH FROM PAPER COFFEE FILTERS TO STAINLESS STEEL COFFEE MESH

You might want to consider strategies to reduce your use of paper coffee filters in addition to reducing the number of single-use to-go coffee cups. Some coffee machines are made as an alternative to conventional methods of brewing. The outcome is akin to paper filters, but without the waste, adding that the stainless steel mesh is quite fine (keeping the grinds out).

Or you might want to purchase a plunging type coffee brewing device called a coffee presser or French press. Anything goes as long as your purpose is to eliminate paper filters. Simple things like these are great ways coffee lovers can show their courage as invincible earth heroes.

3. SWITCH FROM PLASTIC TO BAMBOO COOKING UTENSILS

You want to have the best tools for the task whether you're cooking for just yourself or the entire family. You may be unaware of the distinction between environmentally friendly kitchenware and whatever is currently on sale, but it's still worthwhile to learn more. Modern plastics may not only be inferior to bamboo in terms of performance but also impose harm on our internal health. Additionally, by making the transition, you're picking a better alternative for your family as well as the environment. And because we all call this place home, we may as well look after it to ensure the highest quality of life.

The following are the top advantages of bamboo as an eco-friendly material:

A. By using bamboo as a material, uncertified timber that may cause deforestation can be avoided;

B. Bamboo is simple to grow, and there are vast sources available;

C. These utensils may be made from a single mature bamboo piece to a thousand times; and

D. From being biodegradable, ethically sourced, tree-free, plastic-free, and reusable, this product's sustainability is quite commendable.

I personally use a bamboo kitchen spatula when cooking. The picture above shows my spatula on a bamboo cutting board. Cutting boards made of bamboo, when properly cared for, not only appear more elegant when displayed on a kitchen counter than plastic ones, but they also last a lot longer. You could make this transition as simple as possible for you. You could do it one by one which does not hurt your budget. After you have completed a set of bamboo utensils, we are certain that your family and the environment will thank you.

4. SWITCH FROM ALUMINUM NON-STICK COOKWARE TO NON-TOXIC CERAMIC POTS

Globally, the aluminum sector releases millions of tons of greenhouse gases each year, according to experts, which is, to put it simply, a massive no-no for Mother Nature. Choose the multipurpose ceramic-coated cookware the next time you need to replace your pots and pans since they are devoid of harmful chemicals, poisonous metals, and nanoparticles. Ceramic clay pots are also great alternatives, if you may choose so.

5. SWITCH FROM PLASTIC TO GLASS FOOD CONTAINERS

Glass food storage containers not only offer safer food storage, but also a great view of what is within. Glass Ball jars can keep anything from seeds, flours, and nuts to soups, stews, and fresh berries, and they are affordable (can be bought by the dozen). They are also simple to clean. When using glass containers for frozen storage, make sure to choose freezer-safe models with wide mouths that are simple to remove for warming and provide enough space at the top for any liquids to expand.

6. SWITCH FROM SINGLE-USE PLASTIC BAGS TO ECO BAGS FOR YOUR PRODUCE

There's a fair probability that a large portion of the plastic you believe you could be using comes from your monthly trip to the grocery store. Purchasing large quantities of fruits, vegetables, and other food typically requires ripping off several plastic bags on each trip, which can be harmful to the environment. Reusable produce bags, however, provide a simple and practical replacement for plastic ones if you're searching for a more environmentally friendly, long-lasting option. As far as we can, we can only use environmentally friendly bags and try to lessen environmental damage. In other words, eco-friendly bags are those made from a range of ecologically friendly materials including cotton, hemp, non-woven, RPET, biodegradable bioplastics, and recyclable paper. They are also generally more earth-friendly and emit less pollutants.

7. SWITCH FROM TRASH CAN TO COMPOST BIN (FOR FOOD SCRAPS ONLY)

Food scraps and other waste should be disposed of in a kitchen-top compost bin rather than the trash can, where they will decompose and leave your kitchen smelling bad. When the bin is full, dump it in your backyard compost pile (or, if permitted where you live, in your yard waste receptacle) and use it to supplement your vegetable garden!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Using eco-friendly kitchen supplies and utensils is unquestionably preferable to using single-use plastic ones. They have less waste, are more environmentally friendly, and are more sustainable. And we really hope that this post gives you more than enough options for a greener kitchen. All have already done so much harm to our world, therefore we need to start taking action as soon as we can if we want to save it for future generations. You are already making a difference in little ways by picking eco-friendly products over the standard plastic ones when you go shopping. And if we can start with ourselves, we'll be able to motivate other people to do the same.

Joey Castaneda

Architect

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CLIENT-CENTERED SUSTAINABILITY: Tailoring Solutions to Meet Client Expectations in Sustainable Architecture

In architecture, client-centered sustainability refers to creating structures that not only satisfy sustainability objectives but also take into account the particular requirements and preferences of the client. It entails comprehending customer expectations and incorporating them into sustainable design plans. In order to balance the client's vision with the environmental objectives, architects must successfully manage these expectations. The purpose of this article is to give architects useful tools so they can design solutions that meet the needs of their clients and are sustainable. 

 

Understanding Client Expectations in Sustainability 

Clients frequently have misunderstandings about what sustainability means. Some people might think it just entails conserving energy or utilizing environmentally friendly products. True sustainability, however, takes a comprehensive approach that takes into account social, economic, and environmental aspects. Achieving mutual pleasure requires matching client values with sustainability goals. For instance, there was a misalignment of expectations when the customer placed a higher priority on aesthetics and cost than the architect, who pushed for expensive energy-efficient solutions. The significance of unambiguous communication and setting expectations up front is demonstrated here.

 

The Role of Values in Sustainable Design 

Value-driven design means creating architecture that reflects the personal, business, and societal values of the client. Clients’ values—whether related to environmental responsibility, cost-efficiency, or community impact—directly influence their sustainability priorities. Architects must be armed with methods like interviews, surveys, or workshops to find these values and integrate them into their designs. Understanding these values helps design more meaningful and successful sustainable solutions. 

  

Effective Communication: Bridging the Gap 

The key to understanding client needs is effective communication to ensure their expectations are being met. Architects must ask relevant questions, such as, “What is your vision concerning sustainability?” or “How is energy efficiency important to you?” Active listening and empathy allow architects to uncover hidden concerns of clients. Moreover, balancing the client's point of view with practical limitations—such as budget and building codes—is essential for creating achievable, sustainable designs. 

 

Tailoring Sustainable Solutions to Client Needs 

Each client is unique, and so you may propose specific sustainable solutions based on their requirements. Determining personalized strategies involves considering factors like location, budget, and the client’s personal values. For instance, a client focused on reducing energy bills may benefit from solar panels and passive design, while another one living in a rural area may prefer the use of local low-impact materials. By identifying client values into concrete design features, architects can ensure that sustainability is both functional and meaningful for the client. 

 

Setting Realistic Expectations and Managing Trade-Offs 

Sustainable design often involves trade-offs between different goals. While clients may want high-end materials and energy-efficient systems, the budget or timeline may limit these options. It is very crucial to set realistic expectations by explaining the trade-offs upfront. This could mean suggesting more affordable alternatives or prioritizing certain sustainability features over others. An informal yet transparent conversations help clients understand what’s achievable versus aspirational, leading to better decision-making. 

 

The Financial Implications of Sustainable Design 

Yes, cost is one of the most common concerns clients have about sustainable architecture. While green design can be more expensive upfront, it offers long-term financial benefits, such as reduced energy bills and increased building value. Architects need to present the financial case for sustainability, showing how investments in energy efficiency and sustainable materials can yield cost savings over time. Additionally, cost-saving elements, like efficient HVAC systems or recycled materials, can help meet sustainability goals without implying unnecessary cuts to the budget. 

 

Collaborative Decision-Making in Sustainable Design 

To ensure client’s needs are met without overwhelming them, architects may involve them in the decision-making process. Architects should use collaborative tools—like digital platforms or sustainability modeling software—to help clients visualize different options and understand their impact. By engaging clients in discussions and decisions, architects foster a sense of ownership in the process, which can lead to more successful outcomes. This collaboration also ensures that the design reflects both the architect’s expertise and the client’s vision. 

 

Navigating Client Resistance to Sustainability 

Not all clients immediately show interest in sustainable design solutions. Common obstacles include hesitation due to cost concerns, lack of understanding, or unfamiliarity with green technologies. For architects, overcoming such resistance from the client must involve reframing sustainability as an opportunity rather than a challenge. Sharing successful case studies, presenting data on long-term savings, and highlighting the positive impact on community and environment can persuade clients to embrace sustainable solutions. 

 

Final Thoughts: Building Long-Term Relationships Through Sustainability 

Adopting a client-centered approach to sustainability may help strengthen the client-architect relationship. By tailoring solutions to individual needs, architects build trust and foster loyalty. This approach not only develops business relationships that lead to future proposals but also enhances the architect’s reputation as a provider of thoughtful, impactful designs. Architects are encouraged to continuously develop their strategies, adapting to new sustainability challenges and client expectations as they arise. 

JOEY CASTANEDA

Architect

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TIPS ON SELECTING THE BEST SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM FOR YOUR PROJECTS

 

Solar power has become a popular and affordable source of energy for households and businesses. Solar energy is probably the world's most abundant renewable energy source. However, the uptake of solar panels has been sluggish due to quality concerns. Recent technological developments have increased the dependability of solar panels even further. However, not every solar panel can provide your house with dependable energy.

Spending more than usual is one of the crucial things you have to deal with if you want high-quality solar panels. However, if you invest in a high-quality solar product, you won't have to worry about paying for electricity for up to 30 years.

UNDERSTANDING THE FUNDAMENTALS

Solar energy is captured from the sun by solar panels, which then transform it into electrical power.

Individual solar cells, each consisting of layers of silicon, boron, and phosphorus, make up a conventional solar panel. The silicon wafer serves as the semiconductor, while the phosphorus layer and the boron layer supply the positive and negative charges, respectively.


Photons from the sun hit the panel's surface, displacing electrons from the silicon "sandwich" and directing them into the electric field produced by the solar cells. This produces a directed current that can subsequently be converted into useful power.  

Solar panels are also referred to as photovoltaic or PV panels because the entire process is called the photovoltaic effect. Usually, a solar panel has 60, 72, or 90 separate sun cells.

Picking the best solar panels might be difficult given the abundance of possibilities. These are some crucial guidelines for selecting the best solar panels to assist you in making an informed choice.

1. Assess your energy requirements

It is important to determine your energy requirements first before venturing into the world of solar panels. Find out how much energy you use each day and each month in order to estimate how big of a solar panel system you will require. By determining your energy needs, you may choose the appropriate number and wattage of panels. Nevertheless, you must first determine your home's necessities before opting for the entire house.

2. Think about your budget

The cost of a solar panel can vary significantly based on its efficiency, technology, and brand. Establish a budget for your solar project that accounts for installation fees as well as any possible incentives or rebates. This spending limit will make it easier for you to select solar panels that fit your energy needs and are both affordable.

Examine prices

Although it shouldn't be your only consideration, comparing the costs of several solar panels can assist you in determining which one offers the most value for your money. Consider the cost per watt as well as the total cost of the parts, installation, and inverters that your solar system will require.

Examine rewards and rebates

Solar panel installations are eligible for incentives and rebates in several places. To find out if you qualify for any cash incentives, research regional and national initiatives. These can considerably reduce the solar panel system's initial cost.

3. Look into different types of solar panels

Monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels are the primary and the two most common varieties found in the market. Although they are often more expensive, monocrystalline panels are renowned for their greater efficiency and elegant appearance. Although polycrystalline panels have a somewhat lower efficiency, they are nonetheless effective and more affordable. 

An advancement above the conventional monocrystalline cell are PERC solar panels (passivation emitter rear contact cell). With this relatively new technology, the efficiency of the cell is increased by adding a passivation layer on its rear surface.

Another type is the thin-film panels. The thin, flexible layers that make up thin-film panels are incredibly fine. Because each panel doesn't need a frame support, they are lighter and simpler to assemble. In contrast to crystalline silicon panels, which are available in standard sizes with 60, 72, and 96 cells, thin-film panels can be customized to meet unique requirements. They are not as efficient as standard silicon solar panels, though, thin-film modules have a lower procurement cost, plus they can be less labor-intensive to install because of their flexibility and less weight.

Examine the advantages and disadvantages of each kind to decide which is most appropriate for your need.

4. Look up for product and service evaluations

To learn about actual consumers' experiences, read through other buyers' evaluations and ratings. Keep an eye out for prevalent grievances or problems and seek those panels that have received consistently good evaluations. Check the reputation of the maker. Purchasing solar panels from reliable producers is crucial. Examine the customer satisfaction rates, and brand history.

Review warranty and lifespan. Solar panels are a long-term investment, so it’s crucial to consider their durability and lifespan. Look for panels with extended warranties, typically 20-25 years, which is a good indicator of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Additionally, research the expected lifespan of the panels and their degradation rate, as this can affect their long-term performance.

Consider client service. When buying solar panels, customer service is extremely important, particularly if you have any problems during or after installation. If you have any queries or problems, get in touch with the seller or manufacturer to see how responsive and helpful they are. Reputable businesses are more likely to offer trustworthy customer service and high-quality items.

5. Assess efficiency and output

The efficiency of solar panels is a critical factor in their performance. High-efficiency panels convert more sunlight into electricity, which can be especially valuable if you have limited roof space. Check the panel’s efficiency rating and output per square foot to ensure you’re getting the most power for your investment.

6. Recognize solar panel accreditations

Independent certification bodies, like the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) or Underwriters Laboratories (UL), generally impose stringent quality and safety requirements on solar panels. To ensure the dependability and safety of the panels you are considering, be sure they have these certifications.

7. Verify the suitability

Make sure the solar panels you intend to install yourself are compatible with the electrical system you currently have. To guarantee a flawless integration, go over the compatibility criteria with the expert installer you are working with.

FINAL THOUGHTS

It's important to carefully evaluate a number of aspects when selecting the best solar panels, including your energy needs, budget, the efficiency of the panel, and the reputation of the manufacturer. Before choosing, it's critical to complete your homework, read reviews, and acquire as much information as you can. You may make an informed decision that helps the environment and your pocketbook by paying attention to these pointers. As solar panels are an investment for the long term, take your time selecting the models that best suit your requirements.

Joey Castaneda

Architect

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