RIZAL TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY

Boni Avenue, Mandaluyong City

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECURE

PHILIPPINE
ARCHITECTURE IN THE
MODERN PERIOD

Harreth Jhun Whesly A. Regalado

CEAT-01-503P
Prof. Joan Rama
INTRODUCTION

Philippine architecture in the modern period has been distinguished by the

combination of native materials, methods, and cultural elements with modern
architectural concepts. Architects have created a singular and compelling architectural
setting by deftly fusing elements of foreign forms with indigenous craftsmanship.

Philippine architecture in today's times displays a wide range of styles and

methods, from eco-friendly buildings that embrace sustainable design to towering
skyscrapers that beautify the Manila skyline. Every architectural work conveys a tale of
the nation's tenacity, inventiveness, and cultural identity, whether it is through the clean
lines of modernist architecture, the resurgence of vernacular design, or the integration
of ecological techniques.

SPACE AGE AESTHETIC

An architectural and cultural trend known as the Space Age Aesthetic first
appeared in the middle of the 20th century. The enthusiasm and curiosity around technical
developments, space exploration, and future ideas of the era had a significant effect on
it.

This architectural style defines as Sleek, clean lines, geometric forms, and a
minimalistic style. To evoke a sense of futurism and modernism, it frequently uses metallic
finishes, reflecting surfaces, and striking hues. The ideas of advancement, creativity, and
the seemingly endless potential of space are all embraced by the Space Age Aesthetic.
 INTERNATIONAL

CANOPY
Markham Moor, Nottinghamshire

ARCHITECT
• The Markham Moor Canopy was
designed by Hugh Segar Scorer.

HISTORY OF CONSTRUCTION
The Markham Moor canopy was constructed in the 1960s as a component of the
Markham Moor Service Area, which is situated in Nottinghamshire, England, along the
A1 Road. A team effort involving engineers, architects, and construction workers was
required to create the canopy. The architects combined minimalist style and clear lines
with modernist design concepts. The Markham Moor canopy has received upgrades and
repairs throughout the years to preserve its structural integrity and accommodate shifting
requirements. It continues to be a noticeable element of the service area, giving tourists
a unique focal point and a place to stay while they take a break and refuel.

Steel and concrete were used in the canopy's construction to create a strong,
lightweight framework. Innovative approaches were applied by the engineers to
guarantee the stability and endurance of the canopy. The goal of the design was to
produce a visually arresting and useful building that would offer visitors to the service
area cover and shade.
 FAMOUS FEATURES
Its remarkable design, which consists of
several curving wooden arches that form a
dramatic and dynamic structure, is its most
remarkable characteristic. Hikers and nature
lovers frequent this well-liked location because of
the canopy, which offers shade and seats while
taking in the breathtaking views of the
surrounding valleys and moorland. The canopy
has also won other prizes for its creative design
and environmental sustainability.

LOCAL

Saint Andrew the Apostle Parish Church

Makati, Philippines

ARCHITECT
• The Sant Andrew the apostle church is
one of the known Modern Edifices
designed by Leandro V. Locsin in Makati.

HISTORY OF CONSTRUCTION
The construction of Saint Andrew the Apostle Parish Church began in the 16th
century when the local community expressed their desire to have a place of worship in
honor of Saint Andrew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. The construction of
the church started in the late 1500s and took several decades to complete. Skilled
craftsmen and local artisans worked tirelessly to bring the vision to life. The church was
built in a beautiful Gothic architectural style, characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed
vaults, and large stained-glass windows.
Throughout the years, the church underwent various renovations and additions,
reflecting the changing architectural styles of different epochs. However, the original
essence and charm of the church were always preserved.
One of the primary building materials used was stone, particularly locally sourced
stone that was readily available in Makati during the time it was constructed. Stones
such as limestone or sandstone were used for the walls, pillars, and other load-bearing
elements of the church. These stones were carefully cut and shaped by skilled masons
to fit together seamlessly. Another material commonly used in the construction of the
church is wood. Wood was employed for elements such as the roof trusses, beams, and
intricate carvings. It added warmth and richness to the interior spaces while also
providing structural support.
To fill the gaps between the stones and create a cohesive structure, mortar made
from a mixture of lime, sand, and water was used. This mortar acted as a binding agent,
ensuring the stability and integrity of the walls.
Additionally, stained glass played a significant role in the construction of Saint Andrew
the Apostle Parish Church. Beautifully crafted stained-glass windows were created
using colored glass pieces held together by lead strips. These windows allowed vibrant
light to filter into the church, creating a serene and ethereal atmosphere. These
materials worked harmoniously to bring Saint Andrew the Apostle Parish Church to life

FAMOUS FEATURES
One of the most
prominent features of the
church is its stunning Gothic
architectural style. The pointed
arches, ribbed vaults, and
towering spires create a sense
of verticality and grandeur. The
intricate details and
craftsmanship seen
throughout the church's
exterior and interior are a
testament to the skill and
artistry of the builders.
 additionally, the famous features of this church is the bell tower. The church
features a prominent bell tower that stands tall and serves as a focal point of the
structure. The tower houses bells that chime to mark various religious ceremonies and
community events, adding a sense of tradition and charm to the church.

SOFT MODERNISM

In the architectural style of Soft Modernism, you'll find a focus on natural

materials, such as wood, stone, and textiles, which add warmth and texture to the
space. The color palette tends to be more muted and earthy, creating a soothing and
harmonious atmosphere.
Soft Modernism embraces a sense of comfort and livability. Furniture and decor
often feature rounded edges and gentle curves, providing a softer and more inviting
feel. The emphasis is on creating spaces that are functional, but also cozy and
welcoming.

LOCAL

The National Museum of Natural History

• Manila, Philippines

• The facade of the National Museum of

natural history was originally designed by
architect Antonio Toledo.
HISTORY OF CONSTRUCTION
From the year 1936 to 1938, The building's design concept originates under President
Manuel L. Quezon's vision for a group of imposing government structures around Rizal
Park. Architect Antonio Toledo, a Filipino national artist, wins the design competition
with his neoclassical proposal, initially intended to house the Department of Agriculture
and Commerce.

Year 1939-1940, the construction begins using various materials like reinforced
concrete, granite, and wood. The iconic facade features precast concrete panels with
Art Deco details. However, the project faces delays due to funding constraints and
political instability. However, in 1941 World War II disrupts construction further, leaving
the building unfinished. During the Battle of Manila, portions of the structure suffer
damage from artillery fire.

Post-war reconstruction efforts prioritize repairs and modifications, with architect

Juan M. Arellano completing the facade and adding the fourth floor and chambers for

The Structural elements used in this structure are reinforced concrete for the main
frame, bricks, and wooden trusses for the roof. The façade of the building was used
in Precast concrete panels with Art Deco details. For the flooring,Terrazzo was used in
the main halls, and wood in other areas. And for the windows, Steel-framed windows
with glass panes was used.

FAMOUS FEATURES

Inside, the museum follows an open and inviting layout, with spacious galleries
that offer a seamless flow for visitors. The design incorporates natural light through
skylights and large windows, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
 The exterior of the museum showcases a striking fusion of contemporary materials
and forms. It features a distinctive dome-shaped structure known as the "Tree of Life" that
serves as the building's centerpiece. The dome is adorned with intricate patterns inspired
by the traditional Philippine dress, creating a unique and visually captivating facade.

INTERNATIONAL

The Farnsworth House

• Plano, Illinois, U.S.

• The Farnsworth House

pioneering steel-and-glass
house in Plano, Illinois, U.S.,
designed by Ludwig Mies van
der Rohe

HISTORY OF CONSTRUCTION

The Farnsworth House boasts a history as captivating as its iconic architecture.

The conception of the house happened in 1945. Renowned architect Ludwig Mies van
der Rohe designed the for Dr. Edith Farnsworth, a prominent Chicago nephrologist, as a
weekend retreat. The construction began in 1946 and dragged on for five years due to
unforeseen flooding on the Fox River site necessitated raising the floor level and
reworking foundations. And Technological innovations for the steel and glass elements
were in their infancy, leading to delays and adjustments. The construction process was
fraught with tension due to budget constraints, technical hurdles, and disagreements
between Mies and Dr. Farnsworth.
 The materials used in this house were made of Steel and glass. The primary and
defining material of the house is painted white steel. This forms the skeleton, including
the columns, beams, and girders that support the entire structure. Steel's strength and
flexibility allowed for the expansive glass walls and cantilevered roof without bulky
supports.

The floor and roof slabs are constructed from precast concrete. This material
provided a solid, weatherproof base and helped regulate temperature within the house.
For the windows, Floor-to-ceiling clear plate glass forms the walls of the house, blurring
the lines between interior and exterior and immersing the occupants in the surrounding
nature. Large sliding panels allow for ventilation and access to the terrace. The terrace
and steps leading up to the house are paved with travertine marble. This natural stone
adds a touch of warmth and earthiness to the minimalist aesthetic, complementing the
surrounding forest.

Overall, the materials used in the Farnsworth House reflect Mies van der Rohe's
commitment to minimalism and his desire to create a structure that integrates
seamlessly with its natural environment. Each element is carefully considered for its
function, aesthetics, and durability, contributing to the iconic look and feel of this
architectural masterpiece.

FAMOUS FEATURES

Farnsworth House features as it embraces nature, built in a wooded flood plain and
oriented around a massive black maple tree. Between two levitating horizontal slabs, the
boundary between inside and out is blurred, opened up by expansive glass walls and a
near absence of visible structural supports
REGIONALISM ARCHITECTURE

` Regionalism in architecture is a design philosophy that emphasizes the unique

characteristics of a specific place. It's about buildings that reflect the cultural,
environmental, and historical context of their location, rather than adopting a universal
style. Think of it as architecture with a deep sense of place, drawing inspiration from local
traditions, materials, and needs which can be similar to vernacular architecture which
focus on providing the needs of specific region through design

INTERNATIONAL

Olivetti Showroom
ARCHITECT
The architect of Olivetti showroom is
Carlo Scarpa. He is the most underrated
architect of the 20th century, who
incorporated regional – modernism in his
work long before it came under the
purview of theorists and modern
architects.

HISTORY OF CONSTRUCTION

In 1957, Adriano Olivetti, the visionary leader of the Olivetti typewriter and
calculator company, commissioned renowned architect Carlo Scarpa to design a unique
showroom in Venice. The chosen location wasn't your typical storefront; it was a narrow
alley alongside the bustling Piazza San Marco, a historical heart of the city.
 The Olivetti Showroom opened its doors in 1959, immediately captivating
attention for its groundbreaking design and harmonious integration with the Venetian
environment. It became a landmark not only for showcasing Olivetti's products but also
for exemplifying Scarpa's unique architectural vision.

The Olivetti Showroom is not only for its groundbreaking design but also for its
meticulous choice of materials. Each element, from the walls to the windows, plays a
critical role in creating a harmonious and visually stunning space. For the floor and
walls, he came with the Venetian Terrazzo which composed of marble chips in a
cement matrix, adds a warmth and texture to the interior. Its subtle patterns complement
the other materials and provide a timeless elegance.

FAMOUS FEATURE

The choice of materials throughout the showroom

is no coincidence. Scarpa's meticulous selection
evokes a symphony of textures and colors. The
warmth of Venetian terrazzo flooring contrasted
with the exposed brick walls adds a historical
touch. The sleekness of polished steel
complements the dark sophistication of rosewood
display cases, while the deep black ebony lamps
provide adjustable accents. Each element sings in its own voice, harmonizing to create
a visually enchanting and tactile experience.
LOCAL

Coconut Palace
• Manila, Philippines

ARCHITECT

The architect of the Coconut Palace in

Manila is Francisco Mañosa, who was a
renowned Filipino national artist in the field
of architecture. He led the design and
construction of the palace and envisioned it
as a showcase of indigenous Philippine
materials and sustainable building practices.

HISTORY OF CONSTRUCTION

The Coconut Palace boasts a construction story as unique as its materials. The
conception of the structure sated in 1978 as Former First Lady Imelda Marcos
envisioned the Coconut Palace as a guest house for Pope John Paul II's visit in 1981.
The construction began in 1978 and finished in 1981. Architect Francisco Mañosa led
the design, embracing vernacular Filipino architecture while incorporating modern
techniques.

One famous feature here is that over 70% of the structure used coconut-derived
materials including Coconut timber, for structural elements like columns, beams, and
walls. They also used coconut shell in Decorating the ceiling and furniture, creating
intricate mosaics. Woven into wall panels and insulation, providing natural fire
resistance was used coconut husk and coco lumber as they called as “Imelda Madera
which strengthened the roof and trusses. Other Philippine hardwoods, like narra, were
used for floors and furniture, complementing the coconut theme.
 FAMOUS FEATURES

For the name itself, the famous

feature of the palace is the
extensive coconut materials.The
palace stands out for its extensive
utilization of coconut, showcasing
the versatility and beauty of this
readily available Filipino resource.
Over 70% of the structure employs
coconut-derived materials like
timber, shells, husks, and even
specially engineered "Imelda
Madera" lumber. This sustainable
approach and celebration of local
materials resonate with many
visitors.

CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE

Contemporary architecture, encompassing the late 20th century to the present

day, explodes with dynamism, diversity, and a constant push towards new frontiers.
Unlike the rigid styles of the past, it's a melting pot of trends and influences, refusing to
be easily defined. Here's a glimpse into its captivating world. Contemporary architecture
breaks free from traditional styles and forms, embracing bold experimentation and
unconventional designs.

Geometric shapes twist and bend, defying expectations and creating visually
striking structures. Contemporary architects readily embrace cutting-edge technology,
utilizing advanced software for design and construction. From high-tech metals and glass
to reclaimed wood and natural fibers, contemporary architecture explores a vast array of
materials. This results in buildings with unique textures, colors, and finishes, pushing the
boundaries of what's possible.
LOCAL

The Philippine Arena

• Bulacan, Philippines

ARCHITECT

• Populous, a global mega-

architecture firm, designed the
arena through their office in
Brisbane, Australia.

HISTORY OF CONSTUCTION

The construction of the Philippine arena started in 2013. Construction progressed

at an astonishing pace, fueled by a dedicated workforce and innovative techniques.
Prefabricated concrete panels and space frame technology for the dome contributed to
the speed and efficiency of the construction process. On May 30, 2014, the Philippine
Arena was officially completed, taking only two years and nine months to rise from the
ground.

The project faced logistical hurdles, from managing the massive number of
materials to ensuring earthquake and typhoon resistance. The dome's 10,000-ton steel
roofing posed a significant challenge, requiring meticulous planning and structural
reinforcement.

The Philippine Arena, a marvel of engineering and the world's largest indoor
arena, boasts an impressive construction that utilizes a variety of materials to achieve
its remarkable features. The foundation and Base Isolation of the arena had a High-
density concrete which Forms the sturdy foundation, able to withstand the Philippines'
seismic activity and typhoons. The lead rubber bearings are used as innovative devices
that are placed between the foundation and the superstructure, acting as giant shock
absorbers to isolate the building from earthquakes and strong winds.

For the super structure, the reinforced concrete was the primary material for the
bowl structure, providing strength and stability.1,127 tons of steel used for core shear
walls and other key structural elements, particularly in the massive dome and 541 major
concrete columns: These pillars support the immense weight of the roof and upper
seating areas. For the Dome Roofing, 10,000 tons of steel Forms the framework of the
massive dome, a marvel of engineering spanning 170 meters and reaching a height of
73 meters. And Metal cladding was utilized to covers the steel framework, providing
weatherproofing and a sleek, modern aesthetic.

The Philippine Arena's construction is a testament to human ingenuity and the

ability to adapt materials to achieve remarkable feats of engineering. The impressive
array of materials used, from the solid foundation to the innovative dome, all contribute
to making this not just the largest indoor arena, but also a modern marvel of resilience
and architectural wonder.

FAMOUS FEATURES

International architecture and design firm Populous designed the Philippine Arena.
Populous is well known for creating famous sports and entertainment facilities all around
the world. They worked with the Philippine-based architectural company Budji + Royal
Architecture + Design on the Philippine Arena. They pooled their knowledge to develop
the striking and unique design of the Philippine Arena.

The Philippine Arena has been featured and hailed as one of the Top 5 Earthquake
Resistant Structures in the World. Since the 10,000-ton domed roofing is its greatest load
to carry, the Philippine Arena was constructed with thick core shear walls using 1,127 tons
of steel and 541 major concrete columns.
INTERNATIONAL

The Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center

Baku, Azerbaijan

ARCHITECT

• The architect
behind the magnificent
Heydar Aliyev Cultural
Center in Baku, Azerbaijan,
is none other than the
renowned Zaha Hadid.

HISTORY OF
CONSTRUCTION

The Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center in Baku, Azerbaijan, is a modern architectural

marvel that has become a global icon. Its undulating, fluid form, defying the rigidity of
traditional architecture, stands as a testament to the vision of its architect, Zaha Hadid.
But the story of its construction is just as fascinating as its final form. In 2004, the
project originates with the desire to create a cultural center honoring Heydar Aliyev, the
former president of Azerbaijan, and a symbol of the country's modern cultural identity.
After 3 years, in 2007, Architect Zaha Hadid wins the international design competition
with her audacious, non-linear design. Construction begins amidst skepticism.

The Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center is a masterpiece of innovative materials,

chosen not just for their function but also for their contribution to the building's unique
visual language. The reinforced concrete material forms the internal walls and core of
the three buildings, providing the backbone for the entire structure. Steel frame
structures constructed with 5,500 tonnes of steel contributes to the building's flowing
curves and supports the expansive roof.

For the double-layered Skin which we are seeing in the façade of the building,
Glass-fiber-reinforced polyester panels used to make up the building's outer "skin,"
creating the smooth, undulating surfaces. GFRP offers both strength and
flexibility, adapting to the complex curves of the design. Alminum Employed for cladding
certain external structures like the auditorium balconies and canopies. Large glass
panels allow natural light into the building and offer panoramic views of the surrounding
cityscape.

The choice of materials in the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center reflects a thoughtful
balance between aesthetics, functionality, and structural integrity. Each element plays a
role in achieving the building's signature fluidity and captivating the imagination of
visitors.

FAMOUS FEATURES

The Heydar Aliyev Cultural

Center in Baku, Azerbaijan is known for
its stunning and futuristic architectural
style. The building's exterior is clad in
white, with undulating curves that
create a sense of movement and flow.
The absence of traditional rigid walls
and corners gives the structure a sense
of weightlessness and elegance.
Inside, the Cultural Center features
expansive, open spaces with a minimalist
aesthetic. The interior spaces are designed
to maximize natural light and create a sense
of openness. The use of large windows,
skylights, and open floor plans allows for a
seamless connection between the interior
and exterior environments.
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philippines-27646.html

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natural-
history/#:~:text=The%20metal%2Dframed%20glass%20dome,the%20other%20neo%2
Dclassical%20buildings.

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projects-that-define-critical-regionalism/#google_vignette