POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES

STA MESA, MANILA

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN & BUILT ENVIRONMENT
READINGS IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

Heritage to Home: Unveiling the Influence of Philippine

History on Interior Design

Submitted by:
Mary Rose S. Candel

Bachelor of Science in Interior Design,

Polytechnic University of the Philippines
GEED 10023, RPH Research
Mr. Alfred Ladesma

December 2023

1
 POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
STA MESA, MANILA
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN & BUILT ENVIRONMENT
READINGS IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

Chapter 1

The Problem and its Background

Introduction/ Background of the study

Interior design is a vibrant industry. It displays social, cultural, and historical

nuances of a location. The history and culture of the Philippines are rich. Its daily
existence blends the old with the new. Investigating the close relationship between
Philippine history and interior design is the goal of this study. The emphasis is on the
various ways that homes display this enduring custom. We want to learn more about the
fundamental connections between cultural storytelling and home aesthetic design. Our
goal is to determine these effect levels.

The history of the Philippines a collection of islands, in Southeast Asia is shaped by a

blend of cultures, colonial impacts and a fight for independence. This intricate historical
backdrop has had an influence on the country’s architecture, design, and art. The incorporation
of both traditional elements in residential design exemplifies the ongoing connection, between
the past and present.

With the rapid urbanization and globalization of the Philippines, it is crucial to recognize
how home settings shape historical narratives. This research aims to emphasize how Philippine
history has influenced interior design in order to contribute towards discussions on cultural
preservation and identity. The purpose of this research is to reveal how history subtly influences
the aesthetic appeal, practicality, and symbolic significance of indoor places within the
Philippines. This will be done by exploring key historical periods as well as looking at prevalent
design trends while tracking the development of cultural motifs over the time.

Through this study, we delve into the intricate connection between heritage and home
within the realm of Philippine interior design. Our comprehensive approach draws from
cultural studies, design theory, and historical analysis to shed light on how our past shapes
the physical spaces we occupy. Additionally, our goal is to contribute to ongoing discussions
surrounding modern design practices and to deepen our scholarly understanding of this
captivating subject.

2
 POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
STA MESA, MANILA
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN & BUILT ENVIRONMENT
READINGS IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

Statement of the Problem

This research aims to study the relationship between Philippine history and interior
design, providing the influence and its impact on arts, social, and cultural development that
contributed to today's interior design.

Specifically, this research sought to answer the following questions:

1. What is the profile of the respondents be in term of:

1.1. Age
1.2. Occupation
1.3. Citizenship
1.4. Educational course

2. In what ways do modern Filipino young designers construe and incorporate historical
inspirations into their creations?

3. How do homeowners and occupiers feel about historical and cultural themes being
included into interior design?

4. How do historical occurrences and developments in society materialize in the interior

spaces of Filipino houses, especially in relation to significant historical moments like pre-
colonial perior?

5. What impact do native Filipino cultural themes and workmanship have on the field of
interior design, and how have these components changed throughout time?

3
 POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
STA MESA, MANILA
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN & BUILT ENVIRONMENT
READINGS IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

Conceptual Framework

Input Process Output

Demographics of
Respondents
 Age- divided up 1. Research - Utilizing
into age groups, Design Philippine
including baby history to
boomers, Gen X, 2. Sampling improve interior
and millennials. design.
 Citizenship 3. Data collection
- Exploring
 Occupation-  Record keeping Philippine
categorizing
history through
responders  Observation interior design
according to their
occupations, such  Questionnaires
as professionals, - The impact of
student, artists, or  Focus Group Philippine
lessor. history on
 Educational course  Longitudinal interior design
studies
Historical Influences
 Interviews
 Pre- colonial period
 Post- colonial eras  Case studies

4. Data Analysis

Methodology

This study used the qualitative type of research design because is perfect for
investigating the intricate relationship between Philippine history and interior design. This may
include case studies, interviews, and content analysis. The study was conducted on campus,
and responses were obtained from many students/ artists in various courses. The researchers
would design questions, and the respondents would respond with information. We gathered
information from secondary sources.
4
 POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
STA MESA, MANILA
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN & BUILT ENVIRONMENT
READINGS IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

Bibliography

Beldad, K. (2023, July 10). Art and Architecture in the Philippines throughout the years. Bria Homes.

https://www.bria.com.ph/articles/art-and-architecture-in-the-philippines-throughout-the-years/

Corp, A. (n.d.). 5 Interior Designers on the Value of Filipino Heritage in design. Metro.Style.

https://metro.style/living/tips/5-designers-on-the-value-of-filipino-heritage/32837

Decoding Philippine Architecture: Examining the Influences and Styles that Shaped the Country’s Built

Heritage. (n.d.). Littlelives - LittleVoices. https://propertyaccess.ph/articles/post/what-influenced-

philippine-architecture

Fulgar, I. (2023, June 21). Architecture of the Philippines, then and now. Architect in the Philippines Into

New Designs & Land Ventures. https://www.ianfulgar.com/architecture/architecture-of-the-

philippines-then-and-now/

Hikk, H. (2022, December 21). The rich tapestry of the Philippines: a nation of diverse cultures, history,

and natural beauty. Medium. https://medium.com/@202010749/the-rich-tapestry-of-the-

philippines-a-nation-of-diverse-cultures-history-and-natural-beauty-9c73176b0a34

History of Interior Design in the Philippines: Evolution of Filipino architecture traditions. (n.d.).

yodisphere.com. https://www.yodisphere.com/2023/03/Interior-Design-Philippines-History.html

Mance, I., & Mance, I. (2023, August 16). A local touch: Filipino interior design. Crown Asia.

https://www.crownasia.com.ph/lifestyle-blog/a-local-touch-filipino-interior-design/

Philippine heritage inspired Interior Design: A simple guide. (n.d.). Littlelives - LittleVoices.

https://propertyaccess.ph/articles/post/heritage-interior-design-guide

5
 POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
STA MESA, MANILA
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN & BUILT ENVIRONMENT
READINGS IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY