Polytechnic university of the Philippines

College of Architecture, Design, and Built Environment

Department of Architecture

Fluture: Designing a Socially-Inclusive Commercial + Institutional Hub Through Bio-

Flexible Architecture

Research Topic: A mixed-use development on Barangay Salawag, Dasmariñas City, Cavite

Ar. Melodia R. Sampan

Professor
ARCH 3375 Architectural Design 8

Arreza, Josielyn A.
Asong, Gener Francis L.
Santilla, Trisha Nicole
Surel, Lovely P.
Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................... 5

1 Background of the study ......................................................................................................... 5
2 Statement of the Problem ....................................................................................................... 7
2.1 Major Problems................................................................................................................. 7
2.2 Minor Problems................................................................................................................. 9
3 Significance of the Study....................................................................................................... 10
4 Goals and objective ............................................................................................................... 12
5 Scope and Delimitation of the Study ................................................................................... 13
6 Justification of the study ........................................................................................................ 14
7 Definition of Terms, Abbreviations, and Concepts ............................................................ 15
7.1 General Textual Definitions .......................................................................................... 15
7.2 Abbreviation and others ................................................................................................ 15
CHAPTER 2 SYSTEM OF RESEARCH / DATA GATHERING PROCEDURES
(METHODOLOGY) ............................................................................................................................ 16
1 Idea ........................................................................................................................................... 17
2 Identification of the problem.................................................................................................. 17
3 Collection of Data and Information ...................................................................................... 18
4 Analyzation of collected data, information and users ....................................................... 22
5 Formulation of conceptual design framework .................................................................... 22
5.1 PROPOSED PROJECT DESIGN FRAMEWORK: ................................................... 22
5.2 PROPOSED SITE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK/ SITE DEVELOPMENT
CONCEPT: .................................................................................................................................. 23
6 Translation of the research study into architectural plans ............................................... 23
7 Final Development and Recommendations ....................................................................... 23
CHAPTER 3 TERMS OF REFERENCE ........................................................................................ 24
1. Review of related literature ................................................................................................... 24
2. Case studies ........................................................................................................................... 26
2.1. Local case studies .......................................................................................................... 26
2.2. Foreign case studies ...................................................................................................... 31
CHAPTER 4 DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS ............................................................ 39
1. Site Inventory .......................................................................................................................... 39
1.1. Site Selection .................................................................................................................. 39
1.2. Site Justification .............................................................................................................. 42
2. Site Data .................................................................................................................................. 42
 2.1. Macro Site Data............................................................................................................. 42
2.2. Micro Site Data ............................................................................................................... 66
3. Site Analysis ............................................................................................................................ 67
3.1. SWOT Analysis............................................................................................................... 67
4. User Analysis .......................................................................................................................... 68
4.1. Demographics Data of Expected Users...................................................................... 68
4.2. Organizational Structure................................................................................................ 71
4.3. Behavior Patterns ........................................................................................................... 73
CHAPTER 5 ARCHITECTURAL PROGRAMMING .................................................................... 74
1 Spatial Identification and Staffing Requirement ................................................................ 74
1.1 Spatial Identification ....................................................................................................... 76
1.2 Staffing Requirements ................................................................................................... 78
2 Space Requirements ............................................................................................................. 80
2.1 Major Spaces in COMMUNITY CENTER: .................................................................. 80
2.2 Major Spaces in PUBLIC MARKET: ........................................................................... 80
2.3 Major Spaces in COMMERCIAL BUILDING: ............................................................ 80
3 Space Matrix ........................................................................................................................... 81
4 Space Programming .............................................................................................................. 85
CHAPTER 6 ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS ................................................................................ 92
1. Structural systems .................................................................................................................. 92
2. Electrical systems................................................................................................................... 94
2.1. Commercial Generator (Diesel Generator) ................................................................ 94
2.2. Solar Panel (Photo Voltaic Modules) .......................................................................... 95
2.3. Smart Sockets................................................................................................................. 95
3. Mechanical systems............................................................................................................... 96
3.1. Hydraulic Elevator .......................................................................................................... 96
3.2. Vertical Louvers .............................................................................................................. 97
3.3. Active Cooling System ................................................................................................... 97
3.4. Passive Cooling System................................................................................................ 98
4. Fire-fighting systems .............................................................................................................. 99
5. Security Systems .................................................................................................................. 100
5.1. Walk Through Metal Detector ..................................................................................... 100
5.2. CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) .............................................................................. 100
6. Sanitary systems .................................................................................................................. 101
6.1. Water supply ................................................................................................................. 101
6.2. Sanitary drainage ......................................................................................................... 103
 6.3. Storm drainage ............................................................................................................. 105
7. Waste management ............................................................................................................. 106
7.1. Solid waste management ............................................................................................ 106
8. Landscape systems ............................................................................................................. 107
7.1 Plantscaping .................................................................................................................. 107
7.2 Accessibility ................................................................................................................... 115
7.3 Way finding .................................................................................................................... 117
CHAPTER 7 DESIGN FRAMEWORK .......................................................................................... 119
1. Design philosophy ................................................................................................................ 119
2. Design concepts ................................................................................................................... 120
2.1. General Design Concept ............................................................................................. 120
2.2. Sub-concepts ................................................................................................................ 120
 CHAPTER 6 ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS

This chapter is composed of the building structure, systems or services, space devices and

so on. Thorough selection of environmental systems is done to enumerate the suitable

gathered data to ensure the maintenance, protection, and sustainability of the proposed

development. It also explains the process, advantages, of how it is implemented throughout

the whole proposed project development.

1. Structural systems

The buildings included in the proposed project ranges between low-rise and mid-rise

structures to augment accessibility within the developments. The project involves the

traditional construction method of beams, columns, and foundations; however, it is infused

with other structural technologies to address the limits of traditional construction.

Skeleton Structure System is the main

structural concept of the project, wherein,

loads of the slabs are transferred to the

walls and columns through the help of

beams, down to the foundation and

substructure of the building. Steel vertical

columns and horizontal beams are

constructed in rectangular grid frames to Figure 19 Skeleton Frame (Source: Google

Image)
support the floors, walls, and roof of the

building.
As a substitute to the traditional load-

bearing walls, the structure shall be

integrated with building skins instead,

providing natural ventilation, lighting, and

thermal insulation. The skins shall be

adaptive to environmental variables such

as solar energy, wind direction, and other Figure 20 Surry Hills Library Community
Center (Source: Google Image)
thermal factors. An automatic louver

system tracks the solar movement to minimize glare and intense light inside the structure,

reducing energy consumption to achieve desired thermal conditions.

The proponent anticipates unexpected

changes in the near future to create an

adaptive development. To reduce the

risks caused by geological activities, a

seismic isolation method shall be applied

to the buildings, installing isolators can

Figure 21 Seismic isolated structure vs.
reduce the dramatic shaking of a building conventional earthquake-resistant structure
(Source: Google Image)
during an earthquake. The method to be

used is Base Isolation, the height of the structures is relatively low compared to high-rise

development, hence, minimal efforts are needed to reduce ground-shaking effects. The

isolators are installed at the base of the structure and are checked through a monitoring

system that is connected to the building’s alarm system.

2. Electrical systems

The main power of the proposed development will be from MERALCO (Manila Electric

Company). MERALCO is the main power distributor in Cavite and the neighboring regions

of NCR and Laguna.

Figure 22 Meralco Distribution Path (Source: mpic.com.ph)

2.1. Commercial Generator (Diesel Generator)

Figure 23 Diesel Generator (Source: Google Images)

Energy Generators for when there are problems with main supplier. Will be primarily

used in Commercial market building and Office building. Also, energy backup for Water

System.
 2.2. Solar Panel (Photo Voltaic Modules)

Figure 24 Photovoltaic panels on Rooftop (Source: Google Images)

Supplementary energy generation method. Reducing Carbon footprint is one of Bio

flexible architecture’s goal. Employing energy generating technology that would help

in the long run will be very beneficial economically and environmentally.

2.3. Smart Sockets

Figure 25 Smart Socket/Plug (Source: Google Images)

Smart Sockets/ plugs are energy saving smart devices that locks running energy when

appliances are off or in standby mode.

3. Mechanical systems

The mixed-use development has three

elevators located in community center,

commercial building, and public market.

3.1. Hydraulic Elevator

This hydraulic elevator is powered by a piston

that moves up and down inside a cylinder,

which is moved by an electric power pump. The

hydraulic system that will be used is a holed or

straight plunger type. Only 2-6 floor stops can

be utilized with this type. It is typically less

expensive than traction kind, takes up less Figure 26 Diagram of Hydraulic

Elevator (Source: Google Image)
area, and is simple to install. Although this sort

of elevator is slower than traction elevators, it is nonetheless efficient to use because the

structures are low-rise. It is also a translucent type that is typically composed of glass

rather than metal. This openness allows people from different places and even the outside

world to see one other. It also allows consumers to see if the elevator is working properly

or not.
3.2. Vertical Louvers

A louvre is a type of ventilation device

that allows light and air to pass through

while keeping debris, water, dirt, and

direct sunlight out. It's a window with

horizontal slats set at an angle to allow

air and light in while keeping rains out.

Vertical louvers are louvers that are

positioned such that they can be utilized

vertically. The vertical design can be

used in both a commercial and a

Figure 27 Vertical Louvers
residential setting. They provide security, (Source: Google Image)

shade, seclusion, and a pleasing appearance. Vertical louvers have a wide range of

advantages, not merely architectural value due to the aesthetic appeal they bring. They

provide permanent structures for buildings with little maintenance requirements. They also

give natural lighting, which is energy efficient.

3.3. Active Cooling System

3.3.1. Split Type Air Conditioner

There are two elements to a split air

conditioner: the external unit and the

indoor unit. The compressor,

condenser, and expansion valve are all

housed in the outside unit, which is

mounted outside the room. The

evaporator, often known as a cooling

Figure 28 Split Type Air-condition
coil, and the cooling fan make up the (Source: Google Image)

indoor unit. There is no need to cut a hole in the room wall for this unit. Additionally,
 modern split units are more aesthetically pleasing than window units and take up less

room. One or two rooms can be cooled using a split air conditioner. Split air

conditioning systems provide several benefits that make them worthwhile to

investigate for use in a facility.

 They are simple to keep clean. Outdoor units are built with maintenance and

repair in mind.

 The units come with a remote control and a wall-mounted thermostat, making

temperature management simple and straightforward.

 It is a space-saving design that blends in well with any indoor setting. There's

also no need to close the windows.

 Comfort and sound absorption with whisper-quiet operation

3.4. Passive Cooling System

Incorporating passive cooling devices

into building design necessitates a

thorough examination of device variables

and actions to optimize cooling

performance, increase efficiency, and

connect with other aspects. Unlike fan-

assisted ventilation, natural ventilation

relies on the natural forces of wind and Figure 29 Passive Cooling System
(Source: Google Image)
buoyancy to bring fresh air into buildings.

In buildings, fresh air is essential to eliminate odors, provide oxygen for breathing, and

improve thermal comfort. This system will be adopted at the public areas of the mixed-use

development such as hallways and lobby.

4. Fire-fighting systems

The project shall have both wet and dry fire-fighting

systems due to the nature of the buildings. The

Institutional spaces including the library and local

government offices contain important records and

references which are vulnerable to liquids, therefore, a

wet fire-fighting system may obliterate the documents,

the rest of the structures that are not susceptible to

liquids are infused with a wet fire-fighting system. Dry

standpipes will be installed in Institutional spaces, to

introduce water into the system through fire service

Figure 30 Stainless Fire Hose
connections only when it is necessary. Cabinet (Source: wayfair.co.uk )

The sprinklers shall be supplied by a rainwater-collecting

system installed at the top level of the structures, and the

supply line that is connected to the main public water

supply line shall serve as a supporting source in the

condition of water shortage. Aside from sprinklers and

fire extinguishers, smoke and heat detectors, connected

Figure 31 Fire Extinguisher
to the building alarm system, will also be installed in every Holder Cabinet
(Source: archiexpo.com)
structure. Fire hose reels and extinguishers will be placed

along the corridors of the structure for accessibility purposes, the fixtures connected to the

water supply can be used by breaking the emergency boxes.

5. Security Systems

The commercial building and community center should not be subject to security

breakdowns because of the large number of personnel and public users. A safer working

environment will be provided by modern and digital security technologies.

5.1. Walk Through Metal Detector

People screening is the practice of

searching people before allowing

access to a secure area like offices

building and community center.

Electronic metal detector products are

used to identify hidden weapons,

explosives, or other contraband without

forcing the security screener to make

physical contact with the individual

being checked. Even though such

Figure 32 Metal Detector
security metal detector looks to be
(Source: Google Image)
harsh and unwelcoming, the proposed metal detector will be integrated into the

architecture to make it more user-friendly.

5.2. CCTV (Closed Circuit Television)

Closed circuit television, also known as

CCTV, is the most prevalent sort of

security system in today's world, and it

monitors and records activities in

various locations via cameras mounted

in designated zones. This camera takes Figure 33 CCTV

(Source: Google Image)
images and video recordings that can be used for surveillance in various areas of the

building.
6. Sanitary systems

6.1. Water supply

The main water of the proposed development will be from Maynilad (MWSI). The company

is the main water distributor in Dasmarinas.

Prime Water

External Tap

Connection to Project Tank

Development Tank

Internal Tap

Distribution

Individual Buildings

6.1.1. Water Distribution System

 Hydro pneumatic Tank

Figure 34 Pneumatic Pump (Source: thefreedictionary.com)

Hydro Pneumatic tanks are domestic water supply system in which water is pumped

from the supply system into a pressure tank for storage. Air in the tank is compressed
by the water entering the tank. As the pressure in the tank increases, the pressure in

the water distribution system also increases, since it is fed from the tank. It ensures

that no heavy overhead water tanks are required on the top of buildings and has a low

Construction and maintenance cost.

 Pumping System

Figure 35 Centrifugal Pump (Source: www.michael-smith-engineers.co.uk)

Centrifugal Pumps are mechanical devices designed to move a fluid by means of the

transfer of rotational energy from one or more driven rotors, called impellers. Fluid

enters the rapidly rotating impeller along its axis and is cast out by centrifugal force

along its circumference through the impeller’s vane tips.

 6.2. Sanitary drainage

6.2.1. Sewage Treatment Facility

Figure 36 Sewage treatment (Source: www.marineinsight. com)

There have been talks about requiring commercial developments to have their own Sewage

treatment facilities. To avoid polluting the environment with urban discharge.

 Sewage Treatment Process

Screening and Pumping

Grit Removal

Primary Settling

Aeration / Activated Sludge

Secondary Settling

Filtration

Disinfection

Oxygen Uptake

Sludge Treatment
 6.3. Storm drainage

Figure 37 Rainwater Filtration (Source: Google images)

Figure 38 Urban Rainwater Collection (Source: Google images)

Rainwater harvesting helps utilities reduce peak demands during summer months, saving

treated water for more important and appropriate water uses. While rainwater can be a perfect

primary water source for many uses and situations, it is also a great backup water supply for

emergency situations.
7. Waste management

7.1. Solid waste management

Figure 39 Solid Waste Disposal and Management

The term "solid waste management" refers to the process of collecting and handling

solid wastes. It also provides recycling options for products that do not belong in the

rubbish or trash. Garbage or solid waste has been an issue for individuals living in

settlements and residential areas. Waste management is concerned with how solid

waste can be transformed and turned into a useful resource. It is critical in the

development since it will have a significant impact on the project's health and

sanitation. At the end of the day, all solid wastes will be collected from each area and

office in the building. A strong implementation of waste segregation system shall be

integrated to promote efficiency of segregation and healthy working environment.

8. Landscape systems

This system is defined as a process of making particular space be aesthetically attractive

by altering the existing design and form, adding ornamental features, and planting

different kinds of trees, plants, and shrubs.

7.1 Plantscaping

Interior landscape design is the act of bringing plants indoors. It produces many day-

to-day benefits like mood boosting, memory enhancing effects, and promoting

emotional and environmental benefits for living and working. It is the strategic selection

and placement of plants species within a proposed project development to highlight

and enhance spatial design aspects.

Figure 40 & 41 Green Wall (Source: http://plantscapers.com/interior-

plantscaping-the-best-kept-secret-in-design/)

Figure 42 Plant pot (Source:

https://www.gedike.com/)
8.1.1. Trees

 Manila Palm or Christmas Palm Tree (Adonidia merrillii)

It is commonly known as the "Christmas palm"

because its fruits become bright scarlet and

tend to be that color in winter. A palm tree

species native to the Philippines particularly in

Palawan and Danjugan Island, and Malaysia.

This palm is typically fairly small and slender,

normally attaining 25ft or 8m in height but has

attained over 40ft in some instances.

Figure 43 Manila Palm
(Source: Google Image)
 Lipa Tree (Dendrocnide meyeniana)

It is native to the thickets and secondary

forests of the Philippines. It is commonly

referred to as the lipa tree, but more

specifically lipang kalabaw or, more rarely,

apariagua. In Iloilo province it is called bulan-

bulan. Lipa is a deciduous shrub or small tree,

Figure 44 Lipa Tree
growing to a height of 3m to 5m. (Source: Google Image)

 Lady Palm Tree (Rhapis excelsa)

A small palm species that grows in dense

clumps of slender upright green stems. It is

popular to grow indoors as a houseplant as it

is extremely tolerant of low-light conditions.

This palm has a fairly slow growth rate,

gaining less than a foot in height per year. Figure 45 Lady Palm
Tree (Source: Google
Image)
8.1.2. Plants, Flower and Shrubs

a. Plants

 ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

ZZ plant is also called arum fern,

cardboard palm, eternity plant, and

aroid palm. This easy-to-grow

houseplant thrives in low light

conditions, such as that from east- or

north-facing windows. With its good

looks and easy-going nature, ZZ plant is

perfect for anyone who claims they can’t

Figure 46 ZZ Plant
keep houseplants alive. (Source: Google Image)

 Snake Plant (Sansevieria Trifasciata)

It is one of the most popular and hardy

species of houseplants. it thrives in

either very bright light or almost dark

corners of the house. It features stiff

leaves that range from 6in. to 8ft. tall,

depending on the variety. It varies in

color but usually have green banded

Figure 47 Snake Plant
leaves and commonly feature a yellow (Source: Google Image)
border.
 Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)

It is also known as ‘spider ivy’, ‘ribbon

plant’, and ‘hen and chickens’. A spider

plant likes bright, indirect light. Spider

plants will grow in low light but they will

grow slowly and may not produce

plantlets.
Figure 48 Spider Plant
(Source: Google Image)

 Silver Queen (Aglaonema)

It is commonly known as Chinese

evergreens. An attractive, easy to care

for plant, a good indoor house plant. It

can be maintained at the lower light

levels often found in the home or office.

Figure 49 Silver Queen

(Source: Google Image)
 Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)

It requires low maintenance which is

one of the prime reasons behind its

popularity as an indoor plant. Although

the word bamboo occurs in several of

this plant's common names, it is of an

entirely different taxonomic order from

true bamboos. Though it is worth noting

that this plant and true bamboos both Figure 50 Lucky Bamboo
(Source: Google Image)
fall under the monocot clade
  Croton Plant (Croton)

It can grow up to 5-6 feet tall. Its

common names are rushfoil and croton,

but the latter also refers to Codiaeum

variegatum. It is a diverse and complex

taxonomic group of plants ranging from

herbs and shrubs to trees.

Figure 51 Croton Plant

(Source: Google Image)

b. Flowers and Shrub

 Tail Flower (Anthurium)

Anthurium is an exotic-looking house

plant with large, glossy leaves and

stunning waxy flowers. It goes by many

names including the flamingo flower,

flamingo lily, boy flower, oilcloth flower

or laceleaf.

Figure 52 Tail Flower

(Source: Google Image)
 Marigolds (Tagetes)

These flowers are the spendthrifts

among annuals, bringing a wealth of

gold, copper, and brass into our

summer and autumn gardens. The

flower’s popularity probably derives in

part from its ability to bloom brightly all

summer long. Figure 53 Marigolds

(Source: Google Image)
 Zinnea “State Fair Mix” (Zinnia violaceae)

It is easy to grow from seeds and boasts

a higher resistance to disease and

powdery mildew than other zinnia

favorites. It’s the best tall varieties

around. Growing from 36” to 48" (91 -

122cm).

Figure 54 State Fair Mix

(Source: Google Image)
 Aloe Vera (Aloe Vera)

An evergreen perennial, which

originated from the Arabian Peninsula,

however it grows wild in tropical, semi-

tropical, and arid climates around the

world. Usually cultivated for agricultural

and medicinal uses, however, it can

also be for decorative purposes and

grows successfully indoors as a potted Figure 55 Aloe vera

(Source: Google Image)
plant.

 Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea)

It is not a typical houseplant. In its

natural state, it is a sprawling climber

and shrub with formidable thorns, often

found on the exterior of buildings, like

climbing up a trellis or over a fence or in

gardens, in subtropical-to-tropical

climates. Figure 56 Bougainvillea

(Source: Google Image)
8.1.3. Roof and Green Wall System

The proposed project development will adopt the “Drip Line Irrigation System” for

the watering of the green walls, and “Sprinklers Irrigation System” for the watering

of other vegetations.

Figure 57 Green Wall System

(Source: https://www.gwslivingart.com/gaiawall-green-wall-system/ )

The proposed project will integrate green wall systems through the development

for improving the internal and external humidity of the development, and to also

serve as visual aesthetic. This will be incorporated in interior and exterior walls of

the buildings.

8.1.4. Sprinkling irrigation System

This system is the most widespread among the irrigation systems. It involves

driving water through pipes at high pressure for rain irrigation through nozzles.

This simple method is performed with mobile equipment with pipes conveying the

water which are moved manually. There are self-propelled units mounted on

trolleys and equipped with hydraulic power for moving them independently and

the direct transfer of the pipes.

 Figure 58 Sprinkling Irrigation System (Source:
https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Layout-of-Sprinkler-Irrigation-
System-320_fig10_320990689 )

8.1.5. Drip Irrigation System or Driplines System

Drip line irrigation system saves water and fertilizer by allowing water to drip

slowly to the roots of plants. It is considered as an ideal irrigation system for

irregular and small areas. Its layout is highly variable, dependent on the crop and

field.

Figure 59 Drip Irrigation System (Source:

https://wiki.opensourceecology.org/wiki/Drip_Irrigation )
7.2 Accessibility

Conforming with BP 344 or Accessibility law of the Philippines, the researchers made

sure to provide the following aspects in the proposed development. This law focuses

on providing guidelines in designing spaces which considers person with disability

(PWDs) particularly in the field of accessibility. In line with research topic ‘Inclusive

Design’, several considerations will be adopted into the following:

7.2.1 Drop-off and Pick-up Area

Drop-off and parking road are provided for the both public and private vehicles

of the users. It creates a safe environment for the users, and to keep the traffic

moving. Drop-off and pick-up areas are usually signed with passenger loading

zone signs or 2-minute parking signs.

7.2.2 Sidewalks and Walkscape

The proposed development will have a

feature of walkable spaces. Providing

adequate sidewalks in different areas

especially in the front of the proposed

development and within the perimeter of

Figure 60 Sidewalk
each building for a safe and clear (Source: Google Image)

access. It will not be limited in the minimum

requirement of 1.20-meter width, but will use

a maximum width depending on the usage to

provides enough space for group of people to

pass through in opposite ways since the

proposed project development is expected to

cater a huge number of people.

Figure 61 Walkscape
(Source: Google Image)
7.2.3 Ramp

Ramps is one of the most important features in socially-inclusive design for

user’s accessibility. Following the standards of B.P.344 of 1:12 ratio and will

be maximize depending on the proposed design. It will be placed in all

accessed points of building typologies together with outdoor stairs since the

buildings are elevated. It will allow both people on wheelchair and in crutches

to access the facilities with comfort and ease.

Figure 62 Ramps with integrated Stairs (Source: Google Image)

Figure 63 Ramps with Stairs at the side (Source: Google Image)

7.3 Way finding

The proposed project development will incorporate signages, wayfinding

system, and landmarks for easier navigation for both interior and exterior space

of the development.

7.3.1 Signages

Figure 64 Interior and Exterior Signages (Source: Google Image)

Four types of signages to be integrated within and outside the development:

a. Identification signage

The most common type of wayfinding signage that tells readers where they

are. It also serves as general wayfinding landmarks. Some of the examples

for this is entries and exits, as well as post signs that identify various rooms

and destinations around a facility.

b. Directional signage

This signage helps people reach their destination. Typically, it is in junctions

or generally spots people might look for directions.

c. Informational signage

It is usually related to the facility as a whole. As visitors continue to roam

around the facility, this type of signage contains on information about the

place. An example for this is informational signage on amenities (Wi-Fi),

 accommodations (elevator, lift), facilities (restrooms), and business

information (operational hours).

d. Regulatory signage

Its function is to inform, establish and reinforce rules and safety standards

in facility. Examples for this are “no smoking or no parking” and access

control.

7.3.2 Landmark

Figure 65 & 66 Butterfly sculptures (Source: Google Image)

Application of contemporary sculptures or iconic feature is also used for the

means of way finding by serving as a landmark for visitors. Serves as an easy

guide for locating the area and can be placed in the park or in front of the

development.
 CHAPTER 7 DESIGN FRAMEWORK

The chapter tackles about the general concept of the entire architectural design to be applied

in the proposed project development. The concepts and ideas for the advancement and

significance of the conducted research project is to provide a socially-inclusive space that

values human enrichment and integrate nature within it.

1. Design philosophy

“Architects can’t force people to connect, it can

only plan the crossing points, remove barriers and

make the meeting places useful and attractive.”

Denise Scott Brown

Architect Denise Scott Brown is an award winning

of the Gold Medal from the AIA in 2016 with Ar.

Robert Venturi; the Jane Drew Prize from the

Architectural Review in 2017; the Soane Medal

from Sir John Soane’s Museum in London in

2018; and the Lifetime Achievement Award from

the Lisbon Architecture Triennial.

The design philosophy of the proposed project is that a public space should be an

instrument where diversity is being utilize to its maximum usage resulting in having a

socially inclusive space where people can enhance themselves socially and economically

regardless of age, gender, culture, and social standing, through the integration of design

elements that promotes socially-inclusive design.

2. Design concepts

2.1. General Design Concept

The design concept of the proposed project development is cultivating a socially-

inclusive commercial and institutional hub that are nature sensitive and sustainable,

and to create a social and economic center for the Barangay Salawag of Dasmariñas

City. It aims to breakdown the distinction between work life and social life. The

proposed project will aim to develop a seamless transition on each building typology

within the mixed-use development. Emphasizing social equity within the design

project so the local community can have social interaction while enhancing the

diversity.

2.2. Sub-concepts

2.2.1. Form concept

Green Space where the public

market will be mix with the park.

Area for the development of the

Commercial Office Building.

Community Center is placed at the

front so that it is easily accessible.

Positioning of individual buildings

conforming to its importance and
use.

The form was conceived

conforming with its surrounding
environment.
2.2.2. Function concept

Bio Flexible approach in architecture aims on personifying or breathing life into

our buildings and built environment in relation to our ecosystem. It also entails

having it be an enabler of people to be expressive of their own identity. When our

Architecture show how it can adapt to its environment, so too shall it hint or show

to us that we can adapt and move forward with our stumbling block in social

issues which is inclusivity.

2.2.3. Time concept

The proposed design of the project is based on the data gathered from various

sources related to Commercial-Institutional development, the proponents

included projected results in the future to create an adaptive development that

can sustain itself years after its construction. The concept of biophilia connects

the building to the environment, negative impacts of developments towards

nature can be minimized by providing a timeless and sustainable design. By

anticipating changes caused by uncontrolled variables and providing systems

that can withstand them, developers can re-establish the connection between

man-made structures and the natural environment.

2.2.4. Economy concept

It is well known that a huge budget is required to construct a complex structure.

It might also be costly due to the new and creative technologies used in the

building. The proposed development employs passive cooling and provides a

structure with a low-maintenance and energy-efficient design. Aside from that,

the development's activities, rents, and personnel would be some of the mixed-

use development's revenue sources. The proposal's return on investment can

be calculated over a five-year period. As a result, the development's economic

cycle can sustain the planned project's operations. This mixed-use development

also provides a job opportunity for the citizens of City of Dasmariñas Cavite.