Republic of the Philippines

POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES

College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment
Sta. Mesa, Manila City

DEALA, KHRIS JOSE JR L. December 15, 2023

BS ARCH 2-3 Ar. Erico G. Abordo

MIDTERM EXAM
A. ESSAY QUESTIONS

1. According to the first lecture, the typical stages of Design Process start with theory, then
methodology, and lastly “form follows function.” Theory always comes first in Design Process
because it is the foundation of your design. As a designer, it is important for us to understand on
how we should apply the ideals and goals of the theorists. Also, Architectural theory helps the
designer to continuously explore by being creative and imaginative to furthermore innovate
architecture.

The next process would be Methodology. On this stage, the designer studies on how the design will
develop. This stage is crucial as methodology consists of the whole process, principles, guidelines,
and necessary steps to achieve the desired plan. By doing so, the designer will be able to identify
the problems to be solved and the strengths and the weaknesses of the plan.

Lastly, the “form follows function.” This stage focuses on the structure itself where the building’s
shape will relate to its function. Most people think that architecture is just for aesthetics, but this
process debunked those accusations as the innovative designers already harmonized the
functionality of the structure and its form.

As time goes by, the users’ needs are becoming a problem because they are being needy. As a
designer, it is our job to satisfy them while following all the design requirements and necessary
steps to make sure that they will enjoy their environment safely.

2. The elements of design like lines, color, shapes, space, texture, etc. are the components for building
blocks in designing. These elements can be seen anywhere as it is present in our environment. The
principles of design like balance, contrast, repetition, etc. are the guides on how we should use the
said elements. For example, the designers use repetitive shapes in a façade to create a movement.
Another example would be the designer uses color to show some contrast in design.
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment
Sta. Mesa, Manila City

DEALA, KHRIS JOSE JR L. December 15, 2023

BS ARCH 2-3 Ar. Erico G. Abordo

3. How are the 11 issues (in the analysis of architecture precedents) generally categorized?
• Structure – this issue consists of columns, walls, and beams. This element (issue) of
architecture is important because these compositions are the foundation of structure. Not
putting necessary columns, beams, and walls will cause destruction to your structure.
• Natural Light – this issue it not that an issue (for me). Natural light reduces the use of
artificial light which is good for energy consumption. The only issue about natural light is
it constant and you have to adjust your design to its will.
• Massing – this issue is the most noticeable among the 11 issues. As this element is the look
of the structure itself, if the massing is not aesthetically pleasing it is noticeable but not in
a good way.
• Plan to section or elevation – this element is not an issue because it highlights the beauty
of the plan and the environment around the structure.
• Circulation of use-space – this issue is very common in public area especially here in the
Philippines. Most of the structures and places in the Philippines lacks good circulation
that’s why it is an issue. It important to consider this element because it will help the user
to save time walking around.
• Unit to whole – this issue is common in finding spot for convenience stores or banks. In
our city, banks here are near in residential area, and it is too far for private and government
employees to go to. The convenience stores are also nowhere near the school and any
offices. There are also other food related business structures that doesn’t fit to its
surroundings, that’s why I think this is a common problem here in the Philippines.
• Repetitive to unique – this element is not an issue (for me). I think this element is good for
structure if properly use.
• Symmetry and Balance – these elements are not an issue for me too because they make the
designer’s life convenient.
• Geometry – this element is half-half for me because we are already in modern era, yet some
designers are still clinging to box designs. I know that it is not that bad especially if we
consider the function of the structure, but I think we should be more creative. Also, I know
that Geometry is not always about squares but what I am saying is we should be more
creative and see things differently.
• Additive and Subtractive – I think this element can help Geometry to solve its issue. By
doing additive and subtractive, unique shape can be formed and might be result to
aesthetically and functional structure.
• Hierarchy – this element is good in designs as it helps the designer to emphasize the
structure’s beauty by considering aspects like size, color, shape, and even the location to
manipulate the viewer’s vision.
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment
Sta. Mesa, Manila City

DEALA, KHRIS JOSE JR L. December 15, 2023

BS ARCH 2-3 Ar. Erico G. Abordo

B. ILLUSTRATION

HORIZONTAL WINDOWS – putting

horizontal windows in all sides will allow
the natural light goes in. The user inside ROOF GARDEN – the structure has
will also appreciate its surroundings as it roof garden on its rooftop adding a
is very open to its environment. sense of nature and greenery.

PILOTIS – putting this element in structure MINIMALIST DESIGN – the lack of

gives a lot of space and good circulation on ornamentation of its façade gives a very
the ground floor. This will also allow the clean and simple design. It also gives a
designer to have open floor plan. modern vibe.