NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY

College of Engineering , Architecture & Technology

ARCHITECTURE DEPARTMENT

“Ilocandia Cultural Center”

AD9
Thesis Research Writing

BY

ALMAREZ, CZABRINA CHANEL R.

ANCHETA, MARIE L.
TAN, ROSALINDA G.
TURINGAN, GLENDA

09-04-23

There are things that made us acknowledged because on what we have and what we become right
now that made us embrace and loved the culture. It gave us purpose, show our true form, valued
our roots and most especially, it gave us the reason to continuously grow and develop. It shows
how important to display attention with its functions, uniqueness and history by reviving the
culture in a single structure which represents a true proud individual where in the Ilocandia
Cultural Center provide.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 REPORT BACKGROUND ....................................................................................................1

1.1 Introduction ...............................................................................................................................2

1.2 Giving form to function and needs.............................................................................................3

1.3 Perception of the built form........................................................................................................4

1.4 Establishing the generality of a building, or its uniqueness.......................................................5

1.5 Fitting a building in to or, differentiating it from a context.......................................................6

1.6 Establishing continuity or discontinuity with the past................................................................7

1.7 Expressing our own times & Conclusion.....................................................................................8

1.8 Figures/ Documentation.........................................................................................................9-12

Ilocandia Cultural Center
ALMAREZ, ANCHETA, TAN,TURINGAN 2/4/2024

1. REPORT BACKGROUND

The Ilocandia Cultural Center is a cultural institution located in the Philippines,

specifically in the Ilocos Region. It serves as a hub for the preservation, promotion, and
celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Ilocano people. The center showcases various
aspects of Ilocano culture, including traditional dances, music, arts and crafts, cuisine, and
historical artifacts. It aims to educate both locals and tourists about the Ilocano traditions,
values, and way of life. The Ilocandia Cultural Center often hosts cultural events,
performances, workshops, and exhibits that highlight the unique traditions and talents of the
Ilocano community. These events provide an opportunity for Ilocanos to share their cultural
practices and for visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant Ilocano culture. Moreover, the
center also serves as a venue for research, documentation, and academic studies related to
Ilocano culture. It houses a library and archives that contain valuable resources on Ilocano
history, language, literature, and other cultural aspects. Overall, the Ilocandia Cultural Center
plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the Ilocano cultural heritage, fostering a sense
of pride and identity among the Ilocano people, and creating awareness and appreciation for
their rich traditions among visitors and future generations.

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1.1 Introduction

An honor, appreciation, and beauty. It is the words that can be embodied as the best
description of a structure that should represent if we are talking about the significance of
culture especially in the terms of architecture. The form, the location, it’s objective, the art
and it’s nature. It is what makes the Ilocandia Cultural Center has its own color and shine on
its own where it is basically represents the rich heritage of the Ilocanos. It can actually
provide something worth remembering for a person to feel the honor, the appreciation and
the beauty in a single structure. The bigger Batac Cultural Center has long been envisioned
by Mrs. Marcos to showcase the artistry and creativity of local talents here, as well as a
venue for cultural exchanges both for national and international levels. The Cultural Center,
enlightens, enhances, widens, deepens and broaden the rich cultures that we have and the
pride of Ilocos Norte of its rich and comprehensive heritage and the unique tradition and
customs. For this reason, “Heritage is not a mere hobby or rich man’s pleasure better yet arts,
culture and heritage are livelihood. They are employment, development and drivers of
growth”, The 1,022-seater cultural center to be named after Mrs. Marcos will rise in Batac
City where great talents for arts and cultural performances are found. The two-story
building, with a mezzanine, is likened to the Cultural Center of the Philippines built under
the Marcos administration, except for its roof design which would resemble a ‘salakot’, a
traditional Ilokano hat to conform to the local arts and design.

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Ilocandia Cultural Center
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1.2 How does the form represent its function? What methods have been used to
create the form incorporating its needs? Do you think the form justifies the function
and needs?

The Ilocandia Cultural Center represents its function as a cultural institution by

showcasing and preserving Ilocano heritage. It does this through various methods such as
hosting exhibits, performances, workshops, and events that highlight the traditions, arts,
crafts, music, and dance of the Ilocano people. In terms of creating the form incorporating its
needs, the center is designed with spaces and facilities that cater to the diverse activities and
functions it hosts. It typically includes exhibition halls, performance venues, classrooms,
storage areas for artifacts, offices, and other necessary amenities.

Whether or not the form justifies the function and needs can be subjective and
dependent on individual opinions. However, if the design effectively facilitates the
preservation and promotion of Ilocano heritage, provides suitable spaces for various
activities, and attracts both locals and tourists, then it can be argued that the form does indeed
justify the function and needs of the Ilocandia Cultural Center. What makes it a piece of
work is it can gather a large number of people with a different personality, kind, and mindset
but apparently shows up with the same purpose which is to appreciate the arts and culture
that the structure can offer. It can basically offer the forms to functions and it’s needs. The
function of the Ilocandia Cultural Center is to further expand the tradition in the work of
showcasing every arts, crafts and music with each respective identity which has firmly
something to do with its functions as well, which is to promote the traditional Ilokano hat. Its
use is to conform to the local arts and design which would simply resembled into a ‘salakot’.

Methods used to create the form of a cultural center include:

1. Site analysis: A thorough analysis of the site, including its physical characteristics,
surrounding environment, and local cultural context, is conducted to determine the
most appropriate form of the building.

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2. Functional requirements: The needs and functions of the cultural center are
carefully studied, including the spaces required, such as exhibition halls, performance
venues, libraries, and administrative areas.
3. User experience: The design process takes into consideration the experience of the
visitors and users of the center. The circulation patterns, sightlines, acoustics,
lighting, and spatial qualities are carefully considered to ensure an optimal
experience.
4. Cultural symbolism: The form of the building incorporates elements and symbols
that reflect the local cultural heritage or embrace contemporary cultural trends,
creating a sense of identity and connection to the community.

Now, the methods that have been used to create its own form which help incorporated
its needs are managing its site analysis, the demand of functional requirements, the
experiences of its users, and the significant of cultural symbolism. The site analysis has been
one of the factor to create the form with its needs because of the location. Considering the
physical characteristics of the site, the environment surrounding it and the local cultural
context of the residents. These methods are managed to be done to determine the most
appropriate form of the building. Next is the demand of functional requirements. This
method has something to do with its needs to functionality. It was studied carefully to see
what spaces are required to the exhibition halls, the performances venues, the libraries and its
administrative areas. The third method that have been used to create form is the experiences
of the users where it was processed in the making of consideration by the experiences of the
visitors which are going to be eventually the users of the Ilocandia Cultural Center. The
factors in incorporating the needs are the circulation of the patterns, the importance of sight
lines, its acoustics and lightings and the spatial qualities which concerns the ensurement of
the optimal experiences of the viewers. The last method used is the significant of the cultural
symbolism within its unique form. Its form has this element reflects a symbol of the local
history which shows how embracing the culture means by creating its own identity in
connection to its own community. As a result, I believe that the forms that are used justifies
its functions and its need to be the structure who promotes the Ilocandia Cultural Center
through building a modern piece that will attract, pleased and appreciated by the people.

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Ilocandia Cultural Center
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1.3 How do you perceive this building? What do you feel? What does it make you do?
How does it affect the behavior?

The Ilocandia Cultural Center designed and aligned with purpose of preserving and
promoting Ilocano heritage, could evoke a sense of pride and cultural identity in individuals
who visit or interact with it. It may also inspire curiosity and interest among locals and
tourists, encouraging them to explore and engage in various activities related to Ilocano
culture. The Ilocandia cultural center building evoke various responses on the design and
individual experiences.

Some perceptions and feelings include:

1.Inspiration: The grandeur, unique architecture, or distinctive features of the building

create a sense of wonder, fostering a positive emotional response.

2. Cultural immersion: The presence of a cultural center makes people feel connected
to their heritage, promoting a sense of pride or nostalgia.

3. Curiosity and intrigue: The design or façade of the cultural center excite interest,
making individuals eager to explore the exhibitions, performances, or activities
inside.

These feelings can influence behavior in different ways:

1. Motivation to engage: Feeling inspired or connected to culture may drive

individuals to actively participate in the center's offerings, attending events, or
exploring exhibits.

2. Enhanced learning: The aesthetically pleasing architecture or design might

encourage people to absorb information and expand their cultural knowledge.

3. Community engagement: The cultural center can become a gathering place,

promoting social interactions and fostering a sense of community among visitors.

Overall, the perception of a cultural center building can evoke a range of emotions
and influence behaviors such as active participation, learning, and community
engagement.The Ilocandia Cultural Center has its own unique form where in it is simply

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perceived. It can basically recognize first thing with its roof which forms just like a
“salakot”, the traditional hat used by the Ilokanos. The hat became a big role to its form
which I approved because I felt like I am closer to my culture and more inspired to continue
the traditions that are already fading amidst the growing generation. Sharing what it offers
probably can make a difference to its ongoing establish behavior.

1.4 Can you generalize this building? If so what? Why? Is it unique? Why do you say
that? On what grounds?

The Ilocandia Cultural Center is a multipurpose facility that showcases the rich
cultural heritage of the Ilocano people in the Philippines. It offers various spaces for
exhibitions, performances, workshops, and other cultural activities. The center is unique
because it aims to preserve, promote, and encourage the appreciation of Ilocano culture. It
serves as a hub for cultural preservation, education, and showcasing Ilocano traditions, arts,
and crafts. It is unique in a way that it actually stands out to its surroundings, to its form and
its own identity. To its surroundings because there is no other structure who have the ability
to offer arts and culture within its proximity. Unique to its form because of the unusual kind
of roof. On the grounds of its unique purpose and design, the Ilocandia Cultural Center
stands out as a prominent cultural institution. Its focus on preserving and promoting Ilocano
heritage sets it apart from other cultural centers or venues in the area, making it a significant
destination for locals and tourists alike.

1.5 Does the building fit in to its context? How? What methods are used to fit it in to
the context? Or, is it different from the context? Why do you say that? What are the
differences? How does it affect the context?

The Ilocandia Cultural Center context is to showcase the artistry and creativity of the
local talents they have in the Ilocos or internationally which is not far from its purpose. It
somehow fits its context to the purposes that Ilocos offer which they have great background
to simply exhibit their culture through the use of the building. It further supports the past, the
present and the future to establish a great structure that will become memorable to its actual
context. The Ilocandia Cultural Center is designed to fit into its context by incorporating

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elements of Ilocano culture and architecture. The methods used to achieve this include using
traditional materials and construction techniques, incorporating traditional Ilocano design
elements such as the use of wood and bamboo, and showcasing local artwork and artifacts.

By fitting into the context, the cultural center becomes a reflection of the local culture
and heritage, and it helps to reinforce and preserve the identity of the Ilocano people. It
provides a space for the community to come together, celebrate their traditions, and educate
others about their history. However, there may also be some differences between the cultural
center and the surrounding context. For example, the cultural center may have a more
modern design or amenities that are not commonly found in traditional Ilocano architecture.
This can be seen as a way to blend the past with the present and attract a wider audience.
Overall, the Ilocandia Cultural Center enhances its context by promoting Ilocano culture and
providing a platform for the community to engage and participate in cultural activities. It
adds value to the surrounding area and contributes to the overall cultural landscape of Batac.

1.6 Does the building has any continuity with the past? How? What represents the
continuity? Or, is there a discontinuity with the past? Why do you say that? How can
you just

Now the structures establishing of its continuity or discontinuity with the past. Of
course, the building has always been the capability to continue with the past as mentioned in
the building’s context. How? It is because the reasons why it is built is the love of the
Ilocanos to their rich culture. It primarily represents how the people show case their growth
throughout the difficulties they encountered as the history slowly fading but by the help of
the Ilocandia Cultural Center, there will be still a reason to continue. To continue the rich
heritage of the past. The past where it helped the economy to peek and reached the
development the Ilocos.

Furthermore, the Ilocandia Cultural Center preserves and showcases various aspects of
Ilocano culture, including traditional dances, music, crafts, and cuisine. By doing so, it
ensures that these cultural practices are passed down to future generations and remain alive
builds upon the historical legacy of Batac as a significant cultural hub in the Ilocos region. It

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acknowledges and incorporates elements of the area's past, such as its architectural style,
design, and folk traditions.

The center acts as a bridge between the past and present, allowing visitors and the local
community to connect with their roots and appreciate the enduring aspects of Ilocano culture.
It encourages the continuation of cultural practices by hosting workshops, performances, and
exhibitions, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among the Ilocano people.

In summary, the Ilocandia Cultural Center in Batac demonstrates continuity with the
past by preserving and promoting Ilocano culture, incorporating historical elements, and
serving as a platform for cultural engagement and participation.

1.7 Is the building expressing its time? In what way? What methods are used to express
the time?

The Ilocandia Cultural Center can effortlessly express both its time with the past and
its modern time. It can express its time in the past because of its unique design that
symbolizes late traditional artifact used. It can also express its time in modern phase because
of the generation we have right now. The creativeness has arisen that actually gave a great
cause to the structure also the ideas has concluded to further develop it into its best form. The
Ilocandia Cultural Center in Batac may express its time through various methods. Some of
the ways it may do so include incorporating modern architectural designs and technologies,
showcasing contemporary art and performances, and addressing current social and cultural
issues that are relevant to the Ilocano people. Additionally, the center may use multimedia
installations and interactive exhibits to engage visitors and provide them with an immersive
experience that reflects the time and context in which we live. Now the structures
establishing of its continuity or discontinuity with the past. Of course, the building has
always been the capability to continue with the past as mentioned in the building’s context.
How? It is because the reasons why it is built is the love of the Ilocanos to their rich culture.
It primarily represents how the people show case their growth throughout the difficulties they
encountered as the history slowly fading but by the help of the Ilocandia Cultural Center,

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there will be still a reason to continue. To continue the rich heritage of the past. The past
where it helped the economy to peek and reached the development the Ilocos have now.

Lastly, is the expressing our own times in connection to the structure. I believe that
the Ilocandia Cultural Center can effortlessly express both its time with the past and its
modern time. It can express its time in the past because of its unique design that symbolizes
late traditional artifact used. It can also express its time in modern phase because of the
generation we have right now. The creativeness has arisen that actually gave a great cause to
the structure also the ideas has concluded to further develop it into its best form.

In conclusion, the Ilocandia Cultural Center, a two -storey with a mezzanine building
that has a total of 1,022-seater, where great talents for arts and cultural performances can
show case. It would have a floor area of 4,911 square meters. The first floor has a 2,746
square meters area while the upper ground floor has an area of 165 square meters. This
project will be erected with a total land area of 11,655 square meters or more than a hectare
area where it was built for the cause of mainly, the culture. Where in culture is considered
nurturing the nature. So, it is something we do spiritually because it is bringing out the soul
of every Filipino people and the co-Ilocanos to show case within the city or even
internationally on how beautiful and how great our heritage we have. Ilocandia Cultural
Center, where the culture can be used to represent arts and works into the economy which
also contributes to the growth and development that opens different opportunities in the
country.

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Ilocandia Cultural Center
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1.7 DOCUMENTATION

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Ilocandia Cultural Center
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Figure 3

Figure 4

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Ilocandia Cultural Center
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Figure 5

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Ilocandia Cultural Center
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Figure 6

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