ECO-TOURISM STARTS WITH ECO-DESIGN: Sustainable Tourism and Green Building Linked | Architalktural

 

ECO-TOURISM STARTS WITH ECO-DESIGN: Sustainable Tourism and Green Building Linked

Tourism is fundamentally about exploration, relaxation, and discovery. Yet, in today’s world, as travelers grow more conscious of their environmental impact, the tourism industry must adapt to meet this challenge by embracing sustainability through eco-tourism. This is where the principles of green building become essential. More than just an architectural trend, green building offers effective solutions that directly support the ideals of sustainable tourism. From eco-lodges harmoniously integrated into nature to energy-efficient hotels in vibrant urban settings, implementing green design not only enhances the travel experience but also protects the precious environments and cultures that make our journeys worthwhile. By choosing sustainable options, we can ensure that tourism continues to flourish without compromising our planet.

OBJECTIVE:

I firmly believe that green building is essential to one of the most important human activities today: eco-tourism. I make this assertion not only as an architect but as an environmental advocate committed to promoting sustainability. Eco-tourism’s primary objective is to create travel experiences that prioritize biodiversity, ecosystem conservation, and sustainable practices. This mission ultimately inspires a deeper appreciation and understanding of our environment among travelers. Green building plays a pivotal role in advancing this vision—it's not just about the architectural design; it's about creating spaces that harmonize with nature. In this blog, I will delve into the vital link between eco-tourism and green building. Needless to say that environmental concerns are often more focused on the travelers’ welfare, but in my own personal opinion, social and economic factors of sustainability are just as important, to the point that involving local communities in decision-making is vital for the enduring success of eco-tourism initiatives. By engaging these communities, respecting their cultural heritage, and providing them with meaningful economic opportunities, we can ensure a truly sustainable approach. In our design process, it is crucial that we incorporate these considerations while adhering to green building principles, when put together, will ultimately benefit travel patrons, local populations and our striving planet.

THE CRUCIAL LINK BETWEEN ECO-TOURISM AND GREEN BUILDING

Green building principles are highly relevant to sustainable tourism practices because both focus on minimizing environmental impact while enhancing social and economic benefits. Here's how they connect:

1. Energy Efficiency

Buildings designed with energy efficiency in mind reduce energy consumption through better insulation, efficient HVAC systems, and use of renewable energy sources like solar or wind. Such features can be incorporated in designing eco-resorts and hotels to reduce their carbon footprint. For example, using natural ventilation, energy-efficient lighting, and solar panels ensures less reliance on non-renewable energy, thus contributing to the overall sustainability of the tourism operation.

2. Water Conservation

Water-efficient plumbing systems, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling systems are integral to green building in which we can apply in designing tourist accommodations, particularly in water-scarce regions, often incorporate these water-saving strategies. Hotels and resorts might implement low-flow faucets, greywater recycling systems, and landscape design that uses drought-resistant plants to conserve water.

3. Materials and Resources

The use of sustainable, locally sourced, and low-impact materials is central to green architecture, reducing the environmental cost of building. Sustainable tourism operations prioritize eco-friendly materials for construction and furnishings, such as recycled or upcycled materials, natural finishes, and locally sourced items. This supports local economies while reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting materials.

4. Indoor Environmental Quality

Ensuring a healthy indoor environment is a priority in green building through natural ventilation, the use of non-toxic materials, and abundant natural light. Eco-friendly accommodations aim to provide high-quality indoor environments for guests by using non-toxic paints, avoiding synthetic materials, and ensuring good indoor air quality through plants and proper ventilation.

5. Waste Management

Efficient waste management systems, including recycling, composting, and minimizing landfill contributions, are standard in green buildings. Resorts and hotels that prioritize sustainability often integrate waste reduction systems, composting organic waste, offering recycling stations for guests, and minimizing single-use plastics.

6. Biophilic Design

Biophilic design incorporates elements of nature into buildings to improve the well-being of occupants and connect them with the natural environment. In tourism, this might mean designing resorts or cabins that blend into the natural landscape, featuring large windows for natural views, gardens, and interiors with natural materials that reflect local ecosystems, creating a peaceful environment that promotes relaxation and connection to nature.

7. Transportation and Access

A sustainable building reduces its carbon footprint through proximity to transportation options and designs that encourage walking or cycling. Hotels, resorts, and eco-lodges may be designed to minimize the need for transportation by being situated near public transport or in walkable, bike-friendly areas. Some tourism operations even provide electric vehicle charging stations or promote car-sharing and cycling programs for guests.

8. Community Engagement and Social Responsibility in Action

While green building focuses on energy efficiency, water conservation, and eco-friendly design, we must not overlook its critical social dimension. At the core of sustainable tourism lies community engagement and social responsibility—ensuring that the locals who welcome travelers also share in the benefits of development. Sustainability in tourism transcends mere environmental protection; it actively enhances the well-being of the communities that host visitors. By integrating green building principles, we can foster environments that honor local culture, bolster livelihoods, and ensure equitable distribution of benefits. When tourism prioritizes these values, destinations can flourish not only in terms of ecological health but also in social and economic prosperity. Embracing this approach is essential for a truly sustainable future.

Soneva Gilly, Maldives

Across the globe, eco-tourism initiatives are proving that sustainable practices and community involvement can thrive together. In Peru, Inkaterra Hotels not only hire and train local residents as naturalist guides but also embrace indigenous building techniques and support vital biodiversity research. This approach ensures that tourism revenue flows directly back to the local communities. Similarly, Chumbe Island Coral Park in Tanzania actively involves residents in conservation efforts and offers environmental education, making eco-tourism a powerful catalyst for community empowerment. Even luxury destinations like Soneva Resorts in the Maldives demonstrate social responsibility by reinvesting in schools, healthcare programs, and renewable energy projects. These examples illustrate that embracing sustainability can enhance hospitality while benefiting both the environment and local communities.

Lagen Resorts, El Nido, Palawan

In the Philippines, eco-tourism destinations not only provide stunning experiences but also highlight the transformative power of community engagement. El Nido Resorts in Palawan stand out as pioneers of eco-friendly design, harnessing solar energy, utilizing rainwater harvesting, and implementing rigorous waste management systems. Their commitment goes beyond infrastructure; they empower local communities by hiring residents, sourcing fresh seafood and produce from nearby farmers and fisherfolk, and offering marine conservation education programs that foster environmental awareness. Bohol Bee Farm exemplifies another impactful model, creating sustainable livelihoods for women through organic farming, handicrafts, and food production. Guests enjoy genuine farm-to-table experiences while supporting local artisans. Meanwhile, Danjugan Island in Negros Occidental transforms conservation into a meaningful journey, where local guides lead guests in snorkeling, birdwatching, and reef protection activities, enriching their connection to nature. Moreover, initiatives like Kawayan Collective in Dumaguete showcase sustainable bamboo construction as a means to generate employment, preserve traditional craftsmanship, and encourage eco-friendly development. By choosing these destinations, travelers not only enjoy unforgettable adventures but also contribute to the preservation of culture and the environment, making a positive impact on local communities.

Bohol Bee Farm, Bohol, Philippines

These examples prove that community engagement is not an optional add-on but a cornerstone of sustainable tourism. By valuing local voices, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring that communities share in tourism’s benefits, green building principles create destinations where both people and the planet can flourish.

ABSTRACT

In summary, both green building principles and sustainable tourism share a common goal: to reduce environmental harm and improve the quality of life for all stakeholders, from the local community to the tourists. By integrating green building principles into tourism operations, businesses can provide eco-friendly accommodations and experiences that support a more sustainable future.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Eco-tourism is not merely a passing trend; it represents a powerful movement toward crafting travel experiences that safeguard the environment, celebrate local cultures, and uplift communities. Central to this transformation are green building principles, which offer a robust framework for eco-friendly design and efficient resource utilization while ensuring healthier spaces for guests. However, the social aspect is equally significant: local communities must not only participate in tourism development but also thrive because of it. When hotels, resorts, and eco-projects commit to investing in local people—through fair wages, cultural preservation, and equitable economic opportunities—they redefine tourism as a collaborative effort that benefits all. Travelers gain access to authentic and enriching experiences, while communities secure sustainable livelihoods and a stronger voice in determining their own futures. The future of tourism hinges on achieving this essential balance: constructing buildings that honor the planet and adopting practices that respect the people. By merging green building initiatives with meaningful community engagement, we have the power to shape a tourism industry that provides not just unforgettable memories for travelers, but also lasting value and benefits for the destinations they explore.

Ar J CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

CITATIONS:

All about the mentioned examples in this blog:

https://northflash.com/interview-with-jose-koechlin-founder-of-inkaterra/

https://chumbeisland.com/

https://planvacationasia.com/el-nido-ecotourism-and-responsible-travel#heading-supporting-local-sustainable-initiatives

https://boholbeefarm.com/the-farm/

https://danjuganisland.ph/visit/#overnight-at-moray-lagoon

https://www.negrosseasonofculture.com/2025/02/kawayan-collective-greening-country.html

PHOTO ATTRIBUTION:

El Nido Resorts, Palawan, Philippines

By geLowfish - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=79155210

Bohol Bee Farm

By Øyvind Holmstad - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=61345684

Soneva Gilly, Maldives

By J-F Le Falher - Own work, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6943834

Cover Photo is an original digital artwork by the author. Follow his artist link to avail.

PRESERVING CULTURAL HERITAGE THROUGH SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE (PART 1) | Architalktural

 

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

PRESERVING CULTURAL HERITAGE THROUGH SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE (PART 1)

  

Defining Architectural Heritage Restoration and its Goals

 

Combining architectural heritage restoration with sustainable architecture, especially in the context of Filipino culture, is both timely and deeply relevant in today’s push for environmentally and culturally conscious design. I believe reviving the past is one of the best ways to preserve the future. Recalling the vernacular Filipino architectural heritage such as the Bahay Kubo, Bahay na Bato, Ifugao House, Ivatan Houses in Batanes, ancestral houses in Vigan and Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bataan, just among the many examples of pre-colonial and colonial influences in the Philippine architecture, a heritage to be considered as “the untouchables” or as Wikipedia calls it “immovable”, in our quest to preserve the culture through architectural restoration. These are all possible in the midst of the green building revolution, yet in a subtle way, it's becoming a significant part of it.

OBJECTIVE

I have been contemplating lately the connection between "architectural heritage restoration” and "sustainable architecture." How did it become part of sustainable architecture, its role and influence with a deeper emphasis on the green building of the Philippines? These are just among the many questions I have in mind that I want to address in this blog. Understanding “Architectural Heritage Restoration” involves exploring the practices, philosophies, and cultural imperatives that guide the preservation, repair, and often the revitalization of historical structures. However, it seems like this is quite a broad subject matter to discuss, and I have decided to put this into a series of blogs. I would like to appeal to the general audience, sustainability advocates, architects, students, cultural conservationists, and even travel and lifestyle readers, please be patient and stay tuned to our channel in this series, in order to deeply understand where this adventurous journey is taking us. Ready to ride my time machine? Fasten your seat belts and let’s build a better future from the lessons of the past.

1. Definition and Goals of Architectural Heritage Restoration

Definition

Although with similar definitions and context, Wikipedia seems to have its own terminology on this subject matter. According to them, “Conservation and restoration of immovable cultural property describes the process through which the material, historical, and design integrity of any immovable cultural property is prolonged through carefully planned interventions. The individual engaged in this pursuit is known as an architectural conservator-restorer. Decisions of when and how to engage in an intervention are critical to the ultimate conservation-restoration of cultural heritage. Ultimately, the decision is value-based: a combination of artistic, contextual, and informational values is normally considered. In some cases, a decision to not intervene may be the most appropriate choice.” (See Citation No.1)

However, to simplify it in general terms, Architectural Heritage Restoration refers to the process of accurately recovering the form, features, and character of a historic building as it appeared at a particular period in time. This includes using appropriate materials, techniques, and respecting its original context and significance.

Primary Goals:

• Preservation: To protect the structure from further deterioration, decay, or demolition while maintaining its historical authenticity. This involves maintaining original materials and minimizing alterations.

• Adaptive Reuse: Giving an old building a new function while retaining its heritage value. For instance, converting an old convent into a museum or an ancestral house into a boutique hotel. To learn more, consider reading a related blog I wrote entitled THE 3 R’s OF SUSTAINABILITY AND ITS IMPACT IN SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE.

• Cultural Continuity: Ensuring that tangible cultural symbols of the past are preserved for future generations, maintaining a link to identity, memory, and history.

2. Distinction from General Renovation or Rebuilding

While restoration, renovation, and rebuilding all involve work on existing structures, their purpose and philosophy differ significantly:

Aspect	Restoration	Renovation	Rebuilding
Objective	-Return to a known earlier state	-Update or modernize to current standards	-Construct anew (possibly replicating the original)
Material Use	-Original materials and techniques are prioritized	-Modern materials are often used	-New materials entirely
Historical Value	-Maintained or enhanced	-Often compromised	-Usually lost unless meticulously reconstructed
Example	-Restoring the original woodwork of a Spanish-era church	-Installing new wiring or flooring in an old house	-Demolishing and rebuilding a replica of a historical theater

Thus, restoration is more conservation-driven and aligned with protecting heritage values, unlike renovation, which may focus primarily on functionality or aesthetics, often with less concern for historical authenticity.

3. Common Heritage Structures in the Philippines

The Philippines has a diverse and rich architectural history shaped by indigenous traditions, colonial influences (particularly Spanish and American), and early modernism. Notable heritage structures include:

The Ifugao House

a. The Ifugao House

These houses are considered part of the heritage structures in the sense that it is recognized by National Commission on Cultural Arts (NCCA) in one of their articles entitled Sites and Sights in Ifugao by MANUEL DULAWAN. It says, “The Ifugao House. The bale-type house of the affluent Ifugao is a unique architectural structure which antedates by centuries the modern pre-fabricated building. Made only of wood, reeds and thatch without the use of nails, it can be dismantled, transferred to another place and rebuilt and it will look exactly the same as before in shape and size.” (See citations No. 2)

Bahay Kubo

b. Bahay Kubo and other related Filipino vernacular houses

According to an NCCA article, “History of Philippine Architecture” written by ARCHITECT MANUEL D. C. NOCHE, “The bahay-kubo (nipa hut) is a typical traditional house found in most lowlands all over the Philippines. Originally built as a one-room dwelling, the nipa hut changed as family needs become more diverse.” Noche also mentioned the Maranao torogan, which is designed for royalty and thus built with much ornamentation and elaborate details.

The Typical Ivatan House

Another indigenous heritage structure, the Ivatan`s rakuh, which is built solidly on all sides, is made of a meter-thick rubble work covered by thick thatch roofing to withstand gales which frequent the area. Architect Noche added, “Being an isolated and wind-frequented area, the Batanes Islands, exhibit the most different of all traditional architecture in the Philippines.” (See citation No.3)

Bahay na Bato

a. Bahay na Bato (House of Stone)

Bahay na Bato emerged during the Spanish colonial era (18th–19th century) and it features a stone or brick lower floor, wooden upper floor, ventanillas (small windows), capiz shell windows, and wide eaves. A blend of indigenous stilt-house design and Spanish masonry, often seen in towns like Vigan and Taal, is among the significant features of this type of structure.

Barasoain Church in Malolos, Bulacan

b. Spanish-Era Structures

The Spanish colonizers introduced their architectural style during the 16th–19th century, which features Baroque or Neoclassical styles, massive stone construction, retablos, belfries, etc. mostly applied in building churches as part of their mission to spread Christianity. Examples are San Agustin Church (Manila), Miag-ao Church (Iloilo), Paoay Church (Ilocos Norte), Barasoain Church in Malolos, Bulacan, etc. Therefore, these eventually became centers of colonial religious, political, and social life, which most of them are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Manila Metropolitan Theater

c. Art Deco Theaters

Such inviting theatrical aesthetic facades were built during the American colonial period (1920s–1940s), which features Geometric designs, decorative motifs, vertical lines, and modern materials. Good examples are the Manila Metropolitan Theater (See cover photo), Capitol Theater, Iloilo's Cine Oro, among many others. Such decorative buildings reflect the urban and cultural development during the early 20th century; today, many are under threat or already demolished.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Architectural heritage restoration is vital for preserving the rich identity and history of a nation. In the Philippines, it serves as a bridge that connects the pre-colonial, colonial, and modern eras, showcasing the nation's diverse cultural landscape. Through the careful stewardship of significant landmarks like the Ifugao House, Bahay Kubo, Bahay na Bato, Spanish-era churches, and Art Deco theaters, we honor our past and cultivate a deeper understanding of our shared heritage. By distinguishing restoration from mere renovation, we affirm our commitment to authenticity, cultural memory, and responsible modernization, ensuring that the legacy we pass on to future generations remains intact, inspiring and sustainable.

Ar J CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

CITATIONS:

No.1

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conservation_and_restoration_of_immovable_cultural_property

No. 2

https://ncca.gov.ph/about-ncca-3/subcommissions/subcommission-on-cultural-communities-and-traditional-arts-sccta/northern-cultural-communities/sites-and-sights-in-ifugao/

No.3

https://ncca.gov.ph/about-ncca-3/subcommissions/subcommission-on-the-arts-sca/architecture-and-allied-arts-2/history-of-philippine-architecture/

PHOTO ATTRIBUTIONS:

Cover Photo

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, Bagac, Bataan, Philippines

May Ann Libranda, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Stone_brick_gate.jpg

Ivatan House

anne_jimenez, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c2/Oldest_House_in_Ivatan.jpg/1125px-Oldest_House_in_Ivatan.jpg?20091031095937

Barasoain Church in Malolos, Bulacan

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Barasoain_Church_in_Malolos_City.JPG

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

The Metropolitan Theater

Juan M. Arellano, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Manila_Metropolitan_Theaterjwilz.jpg

Ifugao House

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

Bahay na Bato

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

Other photos are copyright owned by Architalktural.

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

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

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 blog, 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 blog, 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

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

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